Guide to Affidavit Format for Name Change in India
Changing your name in India is a legal process that involves several steps, including the creation of an affidavit. This guide provides a detailed overview of the affidavit format for a name change in India and the procedures involved.
What is an Affidavit?
An affidavit is a written statement made under oath, where the person signing it declares that the information provided is true to the best of their knowledge. It is a legal document used in various legal proceedings, including name changes.
Why is an Affidavit Required for Name Change?
The affidavit serves as a formal declaration of your intention to change your name. It provides a legal basis for the name change and can be used as evidence in various official procedures, such as updating your name in government records, bank accounts, and other official documents.
Components of a Name Change Affidavit
An affidavit for a name change typically includes the following components:
- Title: The title of the affidavit, such as “Affidavit for Name Change.”
- Affiant’s Details: Full name, age, address, and occupation of the person making the affidavit (affiant).
- Declaration: A declaration statement mentioning the current name, the new name, and the reason for the name change.
- Details of Documents: List of documents where the name needs to be changed.
- Signature: Signature of the affiant.
- Verification: A verification statement confirming the truthfulness of the affidavit.
- Notary Attestation: Signature and seal of a notary public.
Sample Format of a Name Change Affidavit
Below is a sample format for a name change affidavit in India:
AFFIDAVIT FOR NAME CHANGE
I, [Current Full Name], aged [Age] years, son/daughter of [Father’s Name], residing at [Full Address], do hereby solemnly affirm and declare as under:
- That my name is [Current Full Name].
- That I am a [Occupation], and my address is [Full Address].
- That I was born on [Date of Birth] at [Place of Birth].
- That I intend to change my name from [Current Full Name] to [New Full Name].
- That I am making this affidavit to be published in the official gazette and for the purpose of recording my new name in all records, deeds, and documents as [New Full Name].
- That I shall, at all times hereafter in all records, deeds, and writings, and in all proceedings, dealings, and transactions, private as well as public, and upon all occasions whatsoever, use and sign the name of [New Full Name] as my name in place and in substitution of my former name.
Verification:
I, [Current Full Name], do hereby verify that the contents of this affidavit are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief, and nothing material has been concealed therein.
Verified at [City], on this [Date].
(Signature of Affiant)
[Current Full Name]
(Notary Attestation with Seal and Signature)
Steps to Create an Affidavit for Name Change
- Drafting the Affidavit: Use the above format to draft your affidavit. Ensure all details are correct and clearly mentioned.
- Printing: Print the affidavit on a non-judicial stamp paper of appropriate value (usually Rs. 10 or Rs. 20, depending on the state).
- Notarization: Visit a notary public to get the affidavit notarized. The notary will verify your identity, witness your signature, and affix their seal and signature on the affidavit.
Additional Steps After Creating the Affidavit
- Publication in Local Newspapers: Publish a notice of your name change in at least two local newspapers (one in the local language and one in English).
- Gazette Notification: Apply for a name change notification in the official gazette. Submit the affidavit, newspaper publications, and a request letter to the Department of Publication.
- Updating Records: Use the gazette notification and affidavit to update your name in various official records such as Aadhar card, PAN card, passport, bank accounts, etc.
Common Reasons for Name Change
- Marriage: Changing surname after marriage.
- Divorce: Reverting to maiden name after divorce.
- Spelling Errors: Correcting spelling mistakes in official documents.
- Religious or Personal Preference: Adopting a new name for personal, religious, or cultural reasons.
Important Points to Remember
- Ensure all information in the affidavit is accurate and truthful.
- Keep multiple copies of the notarized affidavit for future use.
- Follow the specific state regulations regarding the value of stamp paper and notarization.
Conclusion
Changing your name in India involves several legal steps, starting with the creation of an affidavit. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the affidavit format and the subsequent procedures required to officially change your name. By following these steps carefully, you can ensure that your name change process is legally valid and recognized by all relevant authorities.
