Who Signs an Affidavit of Name Change?
The affidavit is most often signed by the person who changed their name. However, there are cases where a close family member (parent or sibling_ may also sign to help verify the change.
When to Use an Affidavit of Name Change
People commonly use this form when updating their name with government agencies, banks, schools, or other institutions that still have records under their old name. It helps bridge the gap between previous and current documents, making things like passport renewals, tax filings, or insurance updates much smoother.
It’s important to note that an affidavit differs from a petition for name change, which is filed in court and requires judicial approval. The affidavit, on the other hand, doesn’t change your name—it simply confirms that a change already happened and provides written, notarized proof of it.
Common Reasons to Use an Affidavit of Name Change:
- You changed your name after marriage or divorce
- You ended a common-law marriage
- There’s a spelling mistake on a government document
- You started using a new name socially or professionally and need to formalize it
Alternate Names for This Form:
- Name Change Affidavit
- Affidavit for Name Change
- Statement of Name Change
How to Use an Affidavit of Name Change (3 Simple Steps):
- Fill out the affidavit with your former name, new name, and reason for the change
- Sign in front of a notary public to make it legally binding
- Use the affidavit as proof when updating records with banks, the DMV, Social Security, or other agencies
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