Name Change Format for Newspaper: 8 Ad Samples and Steps

The standard name change format for newspaper ads reads: “I, (old name), son/daughter/wife of (father’s or husband’s name), residing at (full address), have changed my name to (new name) vide affidavit dated (date) sworn before (notary or magistrate), (city). Hereafter I shall be known as (new name) for all purposes.” Publish it in two newspapers that circulate where you live, usually one in English and one in the local language, and keep the full newspaper pages. For official records, many people then apply for publication in the Gazette of India.

This guide gives the format, a fill-in ad, eight samples, the full process and mistakes to avoid.

Key Takeaways

• First make a name change affidavit, signed before a notary or magistrate.
• Publish the ad in two newspapers, commonly one English and one regional.
• Keep the original full newspaper pages, not just cuttings.
• For central records, apply for publication in the Gazette of India.
• After marriage, some records accept a marriage certificate; check each office.

Name Change Format for Newspaper: Standard Text

Create Your Newspaper Ad

Fill in the fields on the right. The ad text updates as you type; copy it and give it to the newspaper’s classified ads desk.

8 Name Change Format for Newspaper Samples

Names and addresses below are fictional. Each sample follows the standard name change format for newspaper classifieds.

1. General name change

2. After marriage (surname change)

3. Spelling correction

4. Minor child (by parent)

5. Adding a surname

6. Name mismatch in documents (alias)

7. Change after divorce

8. Hindi version

Step-by-Step Name Change Process

1. Make an affidavit on stamp paper stating your old name, new name, reason and address, and sign it before a notary or magistrate.
2. Publish the ad in two newspapers that circulate in your area, using the name change format for newspaper given above.
3. Keep the full pages of both newspapers, showing the paper’s name and date.
4. Apply for Gazette publication with the Department of Publication, Government of India, if you need it for passports, government jobs or central records.
5. Update your documents, such as PAN, Aadhaar, bank accounts, passport and certificates, using the affidavit, ads and gazette copy as required.

Requirements differ by office. For example, some offices accept only an affidavit and newspaper ads, while others insist on the gazette notification. Therefore, check with the office where you need the change before you start. Fees and timelines also vary, so confirm them on the official websites. This page gives formats only and is not legal advice.

Documents Usually Needed

Where the Newspaper Ad Is Asked For

Lists of accepted documents change from time to time. Consequently, download the latest checklist from the relevant portal before you apply. Additionally, carry originals and self-attested copies when you visit any office.

Useful Phrases

Mistakes to Avoid

• Different spellings in the affidavit, ad and forms. Keep them identical.
• Missing relation or address. The ad must identify you clearly.
• Keeping only small cuttings. Offices often want full pages with dates.
• Wrong newspaper choice. Choose papers that circulate in your area.

Related Formats

For other public notices, see the notice writing format. After marriage, you may also need a leave letter for marriage and a letter to update your bank records using the application to bank manager. For layout rules, read formal letter writing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Before You Publish

Check your name change format for newspaper text against your affidavit for exact spelling, relation, address and date. More formats are in our bank and official letters section.