Name change affidavit, filled in for you
A name change affidavit is a sworn statement that you were known by your old name, will now use your new name, and that both names belong to the same person. It is the first step of a legal name change in India: after it is notarised, you publish the change in two newspapers and then in the Gazette.
Fill the form below, check the preview and print it on stamp paper.
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This is a general format to save you time, not legal advice. Read every clause, change what does not fit your situation, and for a dispute or a large amount, consult a lawyer.
What is a name change affidavit?
This affidavit records your old name, your new name, the reason for the change (marriage, personal, religious, a spelling correction or numerology) and the documents that still show the old name. It declares that both names are of one and the same person, that you will use the new name from now on, and that the change is not meant to avoid any liability. It follows the usual Indian layout with a verification clause and can be made in English or Hindi.
When do you need a name change affidavit?
- Taking your spouse’s surname, or changing your surname back, after marriage or divorce.
- Correcting the spelling of your name that differs between certificates, PAN, Aadhaar and passport.
- Changing your name for religious, personal or numerology reasons.
- Applying for publication of a name change in the Gazette of India or your state gazette.
- Updating your name with a bank, employer, university or passport office that asks for an affidavit.
Documents needed for a name change affidavit
- Identity proof in the old name and, if you have one, in the new name.
- Marriage certificate, if the change is because of marriage.
- Copies of the documents that show the old name (marksheets, PAN, Aadhaar, passport).
- Non-judicial stamp paper or an e-stamp certificate of the value your state requires.
- Passport-size photos, which the Gazette application also asks for.
How to make a name change affidavit: stamp paper, signing, submitting
- Fill your new name and details, the old name, the reason and the documents that show the old name. The preview updates as you type.
- Print the affidavit on stamp paper of the value set by your state (or attach an e-stamp certificate) and sign it before a notary or oath commissioner.
- Publish a notice of the change in two newspapers, usually one English and one in the local language, and keep the full pages.
- Apply for publication in the Gazette of India (Part IV) through the Department of Publication, or in your state gazette, with the affidavit, newspaper cuttings and ID proofs.
- Once the gazette notification is out, use it with the affidavit to update PAN, Aadhaar, passport, bank and other records.
Common mistakes
- Spelling the old name differently from the old records. Copy it exactly as it appears in the documents.
- Stopping after the affidavit. Most offices also want the newspaper notices and the gazette notification.
- Using different spellings of the new name across the affidavit, newspapers and gazette form.
- Signing in the new name only. Many notaries and offices want both signatures if your signature has changed; ask the notary.
Questions people ask
Is an affidavit enough to change my name?
The affidavit is the starting point. For most records, especially passport and PAN, you will also need the newspaper notices and a gazette notification. Some offices accept a marriage certificate alone for a change of surname after marriage, so check with the office first.
Do I need to publish the change in the Gazette?
For a full legal change it is the usual route, and the Gazette notification is widely accepted as proof. Central publication is through the Department of Publication; many states also have their own gazette. The current forms and fees are on the official websites linked on this page.
What value of stamp paper is needed for a name change affidavit?
The value is set by your state, and some offices ask for a specific amount. We do not list rates because they differ and change; check your state’s e-stamp website or ask the notary.
Can a married woman keep her maiden name on some documents?
Changing your name after marriage is a choice, not a requirement. If you do change it, use the new name consistently once the change is made, and keep this affidavit with your marriage certificate.
Is my data safe?
Yes. The form, preview, Word and PDF are all made on your device, in your browser. Nothing you type is uploaded, and the draft is saved only on this device until you clear it.
Sources and last check
- Affidavits: who attests them, and when a self-declaration is enough (verified 30 Oct 2026)
An affidavit is a written statement sworn before a notary, an oath commissioner or a magistrate. It is usually typed on non-judicial stamp paper whose value is set by the state (many offices accept ₹10 to ₹100 stamp paper or an e-stamp certificate). Many central and state offices accept a self-attested declaration instead of a sworn affidavit; ask the office first. A false affidavit is an offence.
India Code: Notaries Act 1952 and Oaths Act 1969 · DARPG: self-certification in place of affidavits
- Name change: affidavit, newspaper notice and Gazette of India (verified 30 Oct 2026)
The usual route is a sworn affidavit, a notice in two newspapers (one in English, one in the local language), and then publication in the Gazette of India (Part IV) through the Department of Publication, or in your state gazette. Passport, PAN and bank records generally accept the gazette notification. Fees and forms are on the Department of Publication website.
Department of Publication: change of name in the Gazette of India · Department of Publication (Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs)
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