What’s your name? Quite a lot. Your name is a basic part of your identity. It’s how you’re known to the world and often, how you see yourself. Sometimes, life presents situations where changing your name becomes necessary. For personal, professional, or cultural reasons, legally changing your name can be a crucial step in aligning your identity with your true self. Legally Changing a name in India consists of many procedures and details to look into, and this blog will guide you through the process.
Reasons for Changing Name Legally
- People decide to change their names for various reasons:
- Getting married or divorced
- Seeking a name that reflects their gender identity
- Simply wanting a fresh start
- Some might change their name for numerological or astrological reasons.
- Others might just dislike their given name and want something that feels more ‘them’.
Whatever your reason, the process of legally changing your name in India is straightforward, though it requires careful attention to detail.
Legal Process for Name Change in India
What is a Legal Name Change?
Legally changing the name is the process by which a person changes their name in official records. This process ensures that your new name is recognised by law and can be used on all legal documents such as your passport, driving license, and bank accounts.
Benefits of Legally Changing Your Name
Legally changing your name means you can use it without issues across all areas of your life. It avoids confusion, ensures consistency in your personal and professional dealings, and aligns your legal identity with your identity.
Preparing for a Name Change
Deciding on a New Name
The first step is deciding what your new name will be. Take your time with this decision. Make sure it’s something you are comfortable with and that reflects your identity. It’s also important to check that the name you choose is not associated with any fraudulent or criminal activity to avoid future complications.
Documents Required For Legally Changing Name
Before you begin the legal process, gather all necessary documents. These typically include:
- An affidavit prepared on stamp paper
- The original newspaper featuring the name change advertisement
- The prescribed proforma, printed and signed by the applicant and two witnesses
- Two passport-sized photographs
- Photocopies of valid ID proofs (such as PAN card, Aadhaar card, or passport)
- A CD containing a soft copy of the application in .docx format
- A letter verifying that the information in the hard and soft copies of the application is accurate
- A request letter and the registration fee are addressed to the relevant authority.
- Divorce papers (Divorce Deed or Divorce Decree) – [Name Change after Divorce]
- Identity Verification: School ID or Aadhaar Card & Minor’s Birth Certificate [Minor’s Name Change]
Legal Name Change Process
Affidavit Preparation
The first official step is to prepare an affidavit. This document will declare your intention to change your name and why. You can get this affidavit notarised by a local notary.
- Draft the affidavit stating your current name, the new name you wish to adopt, and the reason for the change.
- Include personal details such as your father’s name, address, and age.
- Get the affidavit notarised by a local notary.
Newspaper Publication
After the affidavit, you need to publish a notice of your name change in at least two local newspapers – one in the local language and one in English. This publication serves as public notice of your intention to change your name.
- Choose two newspapers – one local language and one English.
- Draft a name change statement.
- Submit the statement to the newspapers and keep copies of the publication.
Gazette Notification
Publish your name change in the official Government Gazette as the next step. This involves submitting the required forms and documents to the Department of Publication.
- Download the name change form from the Department of Publication’s website.
- Fill out the form and attach your affidavit and newspaper publication copies.
- Submit the documents and pay the required fee.
Updating Your Documents
Once the authorities officially recognize your name change, you must update all your legal documents. This includes your Aadhar card, passport, bank account, and any other identification documents.
- Visit the respective offices (like the passport office, bank, etc.) with your affidavit, gazette notification, and updated ID proofs.
- Submit applications to update your name in each document.
Mistakes to Avoid During the Name Change Process
Incomplete Documentation
Ensure all your documents are complete and accurate. Missing out on any document can delay the process.
Not Notifying Relevant Authorities
After changing your name, inform all relevant authorities and institutions. This includes your workplace, educational institutions, and financial institutions.
Ignoring Follow-up Procedures
Confirm with the Department of Publication that they have published your name change in the Gazette.
Conclusion
We hope this blog answers “How to Change Your Name in India Legally?” Changing your name is a significant step and can be a complex process, but it can be done smoothly with careful planning and attention to detail. At Taxxinn, we simplify the procedure to make name changes as easy as possible. Remember, your name is a part of your identity, and ensuring it reflects who you are is worth the effort.
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