What is the electoral roll and why it matters

The electoral roll (or electoral register) is the official list of people eligible to vote in UK elections. It’s also used by banks and credit agencies to verify identity — so having the correct address matters for voting and for your credit applications. For official registration you should always use the GOV.UK register to vote service.

Who is eligible to change address on the electoral roll?

You’re eligible to register or update your address if you’re a UK, Irish or qualifying Commonwealth citizen and aged 16 or over (you can vote at 18). Students may register at both their home and term-time addresses (but can vote in national elections at just one).

How to change your address — quick, official steps

This is the fastest, most secure method (official GOV.UK route):

1. Visit the official GOV.UK page: Register to vote (GOV.UK).
2. Enter your details: name, date of birth and National Insurance number (if available).
3. Put in your new address: and list your previous address so the electoral services can remove you from the old register.
4. Submit: you’ll get confirmation by email or letter when processed.

Tip: If you don’t know your National Insurance number you can still register — your council may ask for proof later.

How long does it take to change address on the electoral roll?

Most councils complete updates in about 2–4 weeks, though times vary by area and season. For example, Manchester often processes registrations quickly while busy London boroughs can take longer. Contact your local electoral registration office for precise timing.

Local notes — Warwick, Hounslow, Manchester, Solihull

If you want location-specific guidance:

• Warwick: Warwick District Council FAQs explain the change-of-address steps for local residents.
• Hounslow: London Borough of Hounslow electoral services confirm you must re-register through GOV.UK and provide your old address for removal.
• Manchester: Manchester City Council lists NI number guidance and how to apply online or by post.
• Solihull: Use Solihull’s council pages (or GOV.UK contact) for local processing times and enquiries.

What if I forgot to change my voting address?

Don’t panic — it’s common. Update immediately on GOV.UK, and if an election is close apply for a postal vote or set up a proxy vote so you can still take part. Contact your council directly for last-minute solutions.

What if a wrong address shows on the electoral roll?

If a wrong address appears, re-submit the correct details via the GOV.UK form or contact your electoral registration office. After the council updates records, check your credit report (Experian, Equifax or TransUnion) 30 days later to ensure lenders see the change. A correct electoral roll entry improves ID checks and credit approvals.

Benefits of updating your electoral roll address

• Vote at the correct polling station
• Strong evidence for identity checks (helpful for credit/mortgages)
• Reduced risk of identity or credit problems caused by outdated records
• No fee — the update is free and quick to complete

Internal links (live-ready)

• How to Improve Your Credit Score (UK)
• UK Moving Checklist: Change Address Guide
• How to Change Address with DVLA
• Register for Council Tax After Moving

External authority links

• Register to vote — GOV.UK.
• Electoral Commission — registering to vote.
• Manchester City Council — register to vote.
• Hounslow Council — change details.
• Warwick District Council — FAQs.

Conclusion — do it today

Moving is busy and it’s easy to forget small admin tasks. But updating your address on the electoral roll is fast, free and protects your voting rights and credit history. Spend 5–10 minutes now on the GOV.UK page and relax — your record will be correct for the next election and future ID checks.

Update your address now (GOV.UK)