Name Change Affidavit in Maharashtra

A name change affidavit in Maharashtra is the cornerstone of legally changing one’s name, enabling updates to official records like Aadhaar, PAN, bank accounts, and educational certificates. This sworn declaration, certified by a Notary Public or other authorized official, confirms a name change for reasons ranging from marriage to numerology. 

As Maharashtra embraces digital solutions under initiatives like Digital Maharashtra, the process of obtaining a name change affidavit in Maharashtra has become more accessible, with online affidavit creation and e-stamp purchases streamlining the journey. 

This guide explores the definition, eligibility, procedure, benefits, regulatory context, and practical considerations for a name change affidavit in Maharashtra, backed by guidelines from the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Department of Publication. Whether you’re seeking a name correction affidavit, surname change, or passport name correction, this blog is your authoritative resource.

Introduction to Name Change Affidavit in Maharashtra

A name change affidavit in Maharashtra is a legal document sworn under oath before a Notary Public, Judicial Magistrate, or Oaths Commissioner, declaring that an individual has changed their name. It includes the old name, new name, reason for the change (e.g., marriage, divorce, gender transition), and personal details like address and age.

This affidavit is the first step in Maharashtra’s name change procedure, followed by newspaper publication and, in some cases, Gazette notification, ensuring legal recognition across government and private institutions.

The popularity of the name change affidavit in Maharashtra has grown due to its role in updating critical records in a digital age. Online platforms now allow affidavit drafting, e-stamp purchases via the Stock Holding Corporation of India Limited (SHCIL), and even virtual notarization in some cases, making the process faster and more accessible.

From name change after marriage to numerology name change, the affidavit provides a standardized legal framework for diverse needs.

Who Can Apply for a Name Change Affidavit in Maharashtra?

Anyone in Maharashtra, or Indian citizens abroad, can apply for a name change affidavit in Maharashtra, provided they meet basic legal requirements:

• Individuals: Adults seeking a legal name change for personal, marital, or professional reasons.
• Minors: Through a parent or guardian, often for adoption or name correction purposes.
• Non-Resident Indians (NRIs): For updating records in Maharashtra or abroad, with attestation by Indian Embassies/High Commissions.
• Government Employees: Following Ministry of Home Affairs guidelines for deed preparation.
• Business Professionals: For branding or identity alignment (e.g., artists, public figures).

The process is open to all, with restrictions only on names that are obscene, overly complex, or likely to cause public confusion, as per general legal principles.

Reasons for a Name Change Affidavit in Maharashtra

Individuals seek a name change affidavit in Maharashtra for various reasons, reflecting personal, cultural, or legal motivations:

• Name Change After Marriage: Women often adopt their husband’s surname or combine names.
• Divorce Name Change: Reverting to a maiden name post-divorce.
• Adoption: Changing a child’s name to reflect new family ties.
• Religious Conversion Name Change: Adopting a name aligned with a new faith (e.g., Islam, Christianity).
• Numerology Name Change: Modifying spellings for perceived luck or fortune.
• Name Correction Affidavit: Fixing spelling errors in official records.
• Surname Change: Adding, removing, or altering surnames.
• Gender Transition Affidavit: Updating names to reflect gender identity.
• Personal Preference: Rebranding or transforming identity for privacy or cultural alignment.

These reasons underscore the affidavit’s role in formalizing identity changes.

Benefits of a Name Change Affidavit in Maharashtra

A legally executed name change affidavit in Maharashtra offers several advantages:

• Legal Recognition: Ensures the new name is recognized by government bodies, banks, and educational institutions, preventing discrepancies in records like Aadhaar or PAN.
• Fraud Prevention: Formal documentation reduces risks of identity misuse, fraud, or impersonation.
• Seamless Record Updates: Facilitates updates to passports, voter IDs, degrees, and financial accounts.
• Credibility via Gazette: Optional Gazette of Maharashtra publication adds official credibility, especially for government employees or international use.
• Personal Empowerment: Aligns identity with personal, cultural, or professional goals.
• Compliance with Regulations: Meets requirements for institutions demanding proof of name change (e.g., banks, embassies).

In a digital era, a legally valid affidavit ensures smooth integration with online systems and databases.

How to Create a Name Change Affidavit in Maharashtra

Creating a name change affidavit in Maharashtra is the first and most critical step in the name change procedure. Here’s a streamlined overview:

• Draft the Affidavit: Use a guided online form or consult a name change consultant to draft the affidavit, including:
  • Old and new names.
  • Reason for the change (e.g., marriage, numerology).
  • Father’s/husband’s name (if applicable).
  • Residential address.
  • Declaration of truthfulness.
  • Applicant’s signature.
• Purchase E-Stamp Paper: Buy non-judicial e-stamp paper (₹10–₹100, varying by state) via the SHCIL website or authorized vendors.
• Print the Affidavit: Print the drafted affidavit on the e-stamp paper.
• Notarize or Attest: Get the affidavit attested by a Notary Public, Judicial Magistrate, or Oaths Commissioner. NRIs use the Indian Embassy/High Commission. Government employees follow Ministry of Home Affairs Office Memorandum No. 190016/1/87-Estt, 1987, requiring attestation by two Gazetted officers.
• Retain Copies: Keep digital and physical copies for records.

Online platforms simplify drafting and e-stamp purchases, often completing the affidavit in minutes.

Sample Format for Name Change Affidavit in Maharashtra

AFFIDAVIT FOR NAME CHANGE

I, [Old Full Name], son/daughter/wife of [Father’s/Husband’s Name], aged [Age] years, residing at [Full Residential Address], do hereby solemnly affirm:

• I am the deponent and competent to swear this affidavit.
• My name was recorded as [Old Full Name] in all official records.
• I have changed my name to [New Full Name], and henceforth will be known as [New Full Name] for all purposes.
• This change is for [Reason, e.g., name change after marriage] and not for fraudulent purposes.
• The facts stated are true to my knowledge.

Verified and signed at [City] on [Day] of [Month], [Year].

Signature: [New Full Name]

Attestation:

Solemnly affirmed before me on [Day] of [Month], [Year].

Signature: [Notary Public/Judicial Magistrate]

Name & Seal: [Registration Number]

Newspaper Publication for Name Change in Maharashtra

After notarization, publish the name change in two widely circulated newspapers:

• One Regional Language Newspaper: In the state’s official language (e.g., Kannada in Karnataka).
• One English Daily: With local or national circulation.

Sample Newspaper Ad in Maharashtra:

I, [Old Name], S/O/D/O [Parent’s Name], born on [DOB], residing at [Address], have changed my name to [New Name] via affidavit dated [Date] before Notary [Name].

Contact newspaper offices directly, as many offer templates for name change ads. Retain original clippings for records. Some states may accept a single publication for private individuals, but dual publication is standard for legal compliance.

Gazette Notification for Name Change in Maharashtra

The final step, often mandatory for government employees, is publishing the name change in the Gazette of Maharashtra or State Gazette:

• Prepare Documents:
  • Notarized affidavit for name change.
  • Newspaper clippings.
  • Filled proforma (available on the Department of Publication website).
  • Two passport-sized photographs.
  • ID proofs (Aadhaar, PAN, passport).
  • Declaration letter affirming details.
  • Request letter with fee (₹700–₹900, via demand draft or cash).
  • Soft copy of the application (.docx) on a CD or USB.
• Submit Application: Send by mail, courier, or in-person to the Controller of Publications, Department of Publication, Civil Lines, Maharashtra-110054, or the state’s Government Press for State Gazette.
• Publication: After verification, the name change appears in the Gazette within 1–3 months. Download the digital copy from www.egazette.gov.in or receive a printed copy by mail.

For state-specific requirements (e.g., Karnataka mandates Gazette only for government employees), contact the state’s Government Press. Private individuals may opt for Gazette notification for smoother record updates.

Documents Required for Name Change in Maharashtra

• Notarized Affidavit: Signed by the applicant.
• Newspaper Clippings: Originals of both publications.
• Proforma: Filled and signed by the applicant and two witnesses.
• Passport-Sized Photographs: Two.
• ID Proofs: Photocopies of Aadhaar card, PAN card, passport, or voter ID.
• Declaration Letter: Confirming truthfulness.
• Request Letter: With Gazette fee.
• Soft Copy: Application in .docx format.
• Optional: Marriage certificate, divorce certificate, adoption papers, or religious conversion documents, if applicable.

Requirements may vary by state or purpose, so verify with the name change consultant or Gazette office.

Case Studies: Real-World Applications of Name Change in Maharashtra

• Name Change After Marriage: Anita Sharma, a Maharashtra-based professional, adopted her husband’s surname, becoming Anita Verma. She drafted a name change affidavit in Maharashtra online, purchased a ₹20 e-stamp via SHCIL, and had it notarized. After publishing in a Hindi and English newspaper, she submitted her documents to the Gazette of Maharashtra, receiving publication in 2 months, enabling updates to her PAN and passport.
• Numerology Name Change: Ravi Kumar, a Bengaluru entrepreneur, changed his name to Ravii Kumar for numerological reasons. He used an online platform for the affidavit, published in Kannada and English newspapers, and opted for State Gazette publication. The process took 6 weeks, and his new name was updated in bank accounts and business records.
• NRI Divorce Name Change: Priya Menon, an NRI in the UAE, reverted to her maiden name, Priya Nair, post-divorce. She had her affidavit attested by the Indian Embassy, published ads in Indian newspapers via family, and submitted to the Gazette of Maharashtra. The digital Gazette copy allowed her to update her passport remotely.

Regulatory Deep Dive: Legal Framework of Name Change in Maharashtra

The name change affidavit in Maharashtra operates within a flexible legal framework, as no single law governs name changes. Key regulations include:

• Ministry of Home Affairs Guidelines: The Office Memorandum No. 190016/1/87-Estt, 1987, mandates government employees to submit a deed attested by two Gazetted officers for name changes, ensuring official record updates.
• Department of Publication Rules: The Gazette of Maharashtra, managed under the Government of India (Allocation of Business) Rules, requires affidavit and newspaper proof for publication, ensuring legal credibility. State Gazettes follow similar rules, with variations (e.g., Karnataka’s exemption for private individuals).
• Notaries Act, 1952: Governs notarization of affidavits, ensuring legal validity when signed by a Notary Public.
• Indian Oaths Act, 1969: Ensures affidavits are sworn before authorized officials, making them admissible in court.

For detailed compliance, explore our cluster content on Gazette publication or state-specific processes.

Things to Consider Before Creating a Name Change Affidavit in Maharashtra

• Verify Notary Credentials: Ensure the Notary Public is registered under the Notaries Act, 1952.
• Secure Platforms: Use trusted sites like SHCIL for e-stamps and affidavit drafting.
• State Variations: Confirm e-stamp values and Gazette requirements with local authorities.
• Document Accuracy: Ensure all details match ID proofs to avoid rejections.
• Cost Variability: Budget ₹1,500–₹3,000 for affidavit, newspaper ads, and Gazette fees.
• Fraud Risks: Avoid unverified platforms to protect personal data.

Tips:

• Retain copies of all documents.
• Check newspaper ad formats with publishers.
• Confirm Gazette submission guidelines at www.egazette.gov.in

Reliable Legal Experts for Name Change Affidavit in Maharashtra

Changing your name officially requires more than just a decision — it involves legal documentation such as a Name Change Affidavit, which acts as proof of your intention and action. Whether it’s due to marriage, divorce, numerology, or personal choice, this process can be complex. That’s where qualified legal experts come in. They ensure all paperwork is accurate, timely, and compliant with Maharashtra’s legal procedures. Below is a curated list of experienced advocates you can consult for smooth and hassle-free affidavit services.

1. Advocate Rajesh Menon

• Services: Name Change Affidavit, Legal Name Change, Gazette Notification Support
• Address: Dadar West, Mumbai
• Contact: +91-8588887480
• Qualification: LLB from Government Law College, Mumbai
• Experience: 9 years
• Description: Advocate Menon has a strong reputation for handling name change documentation with precision. He assists clients in preparing affidavits and completing Gazette publication, ensuring a seamless legal transition.

2. Advocate Shalini Deshpande

• Services: Name Change Affidavit, Post-Marriage Name Change, Minor Name Change
• Address: Model Colony, Pune
• Contact: +91-8588887480
• Qualification: LLB from Symbiosis Law School
• Experience: 11 years
• Description: Known for her client-centric approach, Advocate Deshpande simplifies the name change process and helps clients navigate every step — from drafting affidavits to notarization and Gazette follow-ups.

3. Advocate Nilesh Pawar

• Services: Legal Name Change, Name Change Affidavit, Documentation & Verification
• Address: Shivaji Nagar, Nagpur
• Contact: +91-8588887480
• Qualification: LLB from Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University
• Experience: 8 years
• Description: Advocate Pawar specializes in documentation for civil matters, especially name changes. His efficient affidavit drafting and Gazette coordination help clients complete their process without delays.

4. Advocate Farzana Shaikh

• Services: Name Change Affidavit, Muslim Name Change Procedure, Gazette Filing
• Address: Aurangpura, Aurangabad
• Contact: +91-8588887480
• Qualification: LLB from Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University
• Experience: 10 years
• Description: With a deep understanding of personal documentation law, Advocate Shaikh guides individuals through the name change affidavit process with cultural sensitivity and legal accuracy.

5. Advocate Sameer Jadhav

• Services: Name Change Affidavit, Legal Drafting, Gazette Notification
• Address: Pratap Nagar, Thane
• Contact: +91-8588887480
• Qualification: LLB from Mumbai University
• Experience: 12 years
• Description: Advocate Jadhav has helped hundreds of clients in Maharashtra change their names legally. He is known for his fast response time and clear legal advice, especially in affidavit drafting and Gazette submissions.

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Frequently Asked Questions on Name Change Affidavit in Maharashtra

Q1. What is a name change affidavit in Maharashtra?

Ans1. A name change affidavit in Maharashtra is a sworn legal document declaring an individual’s name change, attested by a Notary Public, Judicial Magistrate, or Oaths Commissioner under the Indian Oaths Act, 1969. It includes the old name, new name, reason for change, and personal details, serving as the first step in the legal name change procedure.

Q2. How do I legally change my name in Maharashtra?

Ans2. To legally change your name, create a notarized affidavit for name change, publish the change in two newspapers (one in the regional language, one in English), and notify the Gazette of Maharashtra or State Gazette for full legal recognition, especially for government employees.

Q3. Is a notarized affidavit sufficient for a name change in Maharashtra?

Ans3. No, a notarized affidavit is necessary but not sufficient. You must also publish newspaper advertisements and, for complete legal validity, notify the Gazette of Maharashtra or State Gazette, particularly for government employees or when updating official records like Aadhaar or passport.

Q4. Where can I get e-stamp paper for a name change affidavit?

Ans4. Purchase non-judicial e-stamp paper online via the Stock Holding Corporation of India Limited (SHCIL) website or from state-authorized vendors. Costs typically range from ₹10 to ₹100, depending on state regulations.

Q5. What details should be included in a name change affidavit?

Ans5. The affidavit must include the old and new names, reason for change (e.g., name change after marriage, numerology), residential address, age, father’s or husband’s name (if applicable), and a declaration of truthfulness, sworn under the Indian Oaths Act, 1969.

Q6. Can NRIs apply for a name change affidavit from abroad?

Ans6. Yes, NRIs can draft a name change affidavit in Maharashtra and have it attested by the Indian Embassy or High Commission in their country. Newspaper publications and Gazette submissions can be coordinated remotely or through family in Maharashtra.

Q7. Is newspaper publication mandatory for a name change in Maharashtra?

Ans7. Yes, publishing in one regional language newspaper and one English daily is standard for legal compliance. Some states may allow a single publication for private individuals, but dual publication ensures broader acceptance.

Q8. What is the cost of Gazette notification for a name change?

Ans8. Gazette notification costs ₹700–₹900, depending on whether a public notice is included, payable via demand draft or cash to the Department of Publication.

Q9. How long does Gazette publication take after name change submission?

Ans9. Gazette publication typically takes 1–3 months due to document verification and backlog. Digital copies are available at www.egazette.gov.in, and printed copies are mailed.

Q10. Is Gazette publication mandatory for everyone?

Ans10. Gazette publication is mandatory for government employees per Ministry of Home Affairs Office Memorandum No. 190016/1/87-Estt, 1987, but optional for private individuals. It’s recommended for updating records like PAN, passport, or bank accounts.

Q11. What documents are required for a name change in Maharashtra?

Ans11. Required documents include a notarized affidavit for name change, original newspaper clippings, a filled proforma signed by the applicant and two witnesses, two passport-sized photographs, ID proofs (Aadhaar card, PAN card, passport, voter ID), a declaration letter, a request letter with Gazette fee, and a soft copy of the application (.docx). Optional documents like marriage certificate or divorce certificate may apply.

Q12. What are common reasons for changing one’s name in Maharashtra?

Ans12. Common reasons include name change after marriage, divorce name change, adoption, religious conversion name change, numerology name change, gender transition affidavit, name correction affidavit for spelling errors, surname change, and personal preference.

Q13. Can I change my surname legally in Maharashtra?

Ans13. Yes, you can legally change your surname by following the name change procedure: create a notarized affidavit, publish in two newspapers, and optionally notify the Gazette of Maharashtra or State Gazette for legal recognition.

Q14. How much does it cost to change a name in Maharashtra?

Ans14. Total costs range from ₹1,500–₹3,000, including e-stamp paper (₹10–₹100, varies by state), newspaper advertisements (₹500–₹1,000), Gazette notification (₹700–₹900), and notary fees (₹100–₹500).

Q15. Can I change my name online in Maharashtra?

Ans15. Partial online name change processes include drafting affidavits and purchasing e-stamp paper via the SHCIL website. Notarization, newspaper publication, and Gazette submission often require offline steps, though name change consultants may assist digitally.

Q16. How do I change my name on official documents in Maharashtra?

Ans16. Submit the notarized affidavit for name change, newspaper clippings, and Gazette notification (if applicable) to authorities like the passport office, Aadhaar center, or bank, along with ID proofs (Aadhaar, PAN, voter ID) and relevant application forms.

Q17. How long does it take to legally change a name in Maharashtra?

Ans17. The legal name change process takes 1–3 months: affidavit creation and notarization (1–2 days), newspaper publication (1–3 days), and Gazette publication (1–3 months) due to verification and backlog.

Q18. Can minors change their name in Maharashtra?

Ans18. Yes, parents or guardians can apply for a name change for minors using the same name change procedure, typically for adoption, name correction, or family alignment, with parental consent documented in the affidavit.

Q19. What is an affidavit for one and the same person?

Ans19. An affidavit for one and the same person clarifies that multiple names or spellings (e.g., due to errors or variations) refer to the same individual. It’s often used alongside a name change affidavit in Maharashtra to resolve record discrepancies.

Q20. Can I correct a spelling mistake in my name with an affidavit?

Ans20. Yes, a name correction affidavit is sufficient for spelling errors or minor changes. Follow with newspaper publication and optional Gazette notification to update documents like Aadhaar, PAN, or passport.

Q21. What is the role of a notary public in a name change affidavit?

Ans21. A Notary Public, registered under the Notaries Act, 1952, attests the affidavit for name change, verifying the deponent’s identity and ensuring the document’s legal validity for use in the name change procedure.

Q22. Can I use a name change affidavit for passport name correction?

Ans22. Yes, a name change affidavit in Maharashtra, along with newspaper publications and Gazette notification (if required), is accepted by the passport office for passport name correction, supported by ID proofs and a marriage certificate or divorce certificate if applicable.

Q23. Is a name change affidavit required for religious conversion?

Ans23. Yes, a religious conversion name change requires a name change affidavit in Maharashtra to document the new name, followed by newspaper publication and optional Gazette notification to update records like voter ID or Aadhaar.

Q24. What happens if I don’t publish in the Gazette?

Ans24. For private individuals, skipping Gazette publication may still allow record updates with the affidavit and newspaper clippings, but some institutions (e.g., banks, passport offices) may require it. Government employees must publish per Ministry of Home Affairs guidelines.

Q25. Can I change my name for numerology reasons?

Ans25. Yes, a numerology name change is valid. Create a name change affidavit in Maharashtra stating the numerological reason, publish in newspapers, and optionally notify the Gazette to legalize t