How to Legally Change Your Name in Maharashtra – Step-by-Step Explained

Changing your name in Maharashtra is a legal process that allows you to officially alter your identity for personal, cultural, or professional reasons. Whether due to marriage, divorce, spelling corrections, or numerological preferences, the name change must be legally documented to be recognized by the government, banks, and other institutions.

The Government of Maharashtra requires individuals to follow a systematic Gazette notification process to make the new name legally valid. The Gazette acts as the government’s official record confirming that the name change is authentic and approved.

Platforms such as Lawtendo assist applicants by simplifying the process and ensuring that all necessary documents are prepared correctly to avoid rejections or delays.

Any Indian citizen residing in Maharashtra is eligible to apply for a name change through the Gazette. The eligibility conditions include the following:

1. The applicant must be at least 18 years old.

2. Minors can apply through their parents or legal guardians.

3. Applicants should have a valid government ID such as Aadhaar, PAN, or voter ID showing their current details.

4. The name change should not be intended for fraudulent or misleading purposes.

Government employees must obtain departmental approval or an NOC before the Gazette application.

Having the correct set of documents is crucial for a successful name change application. Missing or incorrect documents can delay or invalidate the process. The required documents include:

1. Name Change Affidavit: A notarized affidavit declaring the reason for the name change, including your old and new name.

2. Identity Proof: A copy of your Aadhaar card, voter ID, or passport showing your current name.

3. Address Proof: Utility bill, passport, or rental agreement showing your Maharashtra address.

4. Passport-Size Photographs: Two or more recent photos.

5. Newspaper Publication: Copies of newspaper ads published in one English and one Marathi newspaper announcing your new name.

6. Application Form: The Gazette application form available through the Government of Maharashtra’s Department of Publication.

Using professional documentation services like Lawtendo ensures that all these papers are properly prepared, verified, and formatted according to Gazette standards.

The name change process in Maharashtra involves several official steps. Each step must be followed carefully to ensure legal validity.

1. Draft and Notarize the Affidavit: Prepare an affidavit stating your current name, desired new name, and the reason for the change. It must be signed and notarized by a magistrate or notary public.

2. Publish in Newspapers: Publish an announcement in one English and one local Marathi newspaper. The ad should clearly mention both your old and new names.

3. Prepare Gazette Application: Fill out the official application form for publication in the Maharashtra Gazette. Attach the notarized affidavit, ID proof, address proof, and newspaper clippings.

4. Submit to the Department of Publication: Submit the application either in person or via post to the Government Printing Press in Mumbai or Pune.

5. Verification and Publication: After verification, your new name will be officially published in the Maharashtra Gazette.

Once the name is printed in the Gazette, it serves as conclusive proof of your name change for all official and legal purposes.

The cost of publishing a name change in the Gazette varies between ₹150 and ₹500, depending on how the application is submitted and how many copies are requested. Additional costs may include notarization, postal charges, and newspaper advertisement fees.

The entire process usually takes 30 to 45 working days, provided all documents are complete and correctly filled. Any missing details or mismatched information may delay publication.

For minors, the process must be initiated by parents or legal guardians. The guardian must prepare an affidavit on behalf of the minor, explaining the reason for the name change. Along with the affidavit, the minor’s birth certificate, school ID, and guardian’s ID proof must be submitted.

After Gazette publication, the minor’s school and other records can be updated to reflect the new name.

1. Marriage: Individuals, especially women, often change their surname after marriage.

2. Divorce: Reverting to a maiden name or adopting a new one post-divorce.

3. Spelling Correction: Fixing errors in existing documents.

4. Numerology or Astrology: Changing a name for favorable numerological or astrological alignment.

5. Gender Transition: Updating name and gender identity in official records.

6. Adoption or Guardianship: Updating a child’s name after legal adoption.

Regardless of the reason, all name change requests must pass through Gazette publication for them to hold legal weight.

Once the affidavit and newspaper publications are ready, submit your application to the Department of Publication. The process involves verification of documents, after which your name appears in the next available Gazette edition.

The Gazette publication is a permanent legal record and should be kept safely for future reference. It will be needed for updating bank accounts, IDs, and other documents.

After your name change is approved and published, you need to update your name on all legal and financial documents.

1. Aadhaar Card: Visit an Aadhaar center with your Gazette copy and affidavit.

2. PAN Card: Apply online through the NSDL or UTI portal with your Gazette copy.

3. Passport: Apply for reissue with the new name and attach your Gazette publication.

4. Bank Accounts: Submit the Gazette copy and new ID proof to update your account name.

5. Driving License and Voter ID: Update at the respective RTO and Election Commission offices.

Many people choose to use Lawtendo’s document support services to handle multiple updates efficiently and ensure uniformity across all records.

1. Providing incomplete or incorrect details in the affidavit.

2. Publishing advertisements in unrecognized newspapers.

3. Using different spellings of the new name in different documents.

4. Forgetting to attach the Gazette copy while updating official IDs.

5. Not keeping photocopies of the Gazette and affidavit for future verification.

Avoiding these mistakes helps ensure a faster and smoother process.

Step 1: Draft and Notarize the Affidavit
The name change process in Maharashtra begins with an affidavit, a legal declaration confirming your intent to change your name. This document serves as the base for all further steps.

• Your current full name

• Your desired new name

• Date of birth and current address

• Reason for changing your name

• Declaration confirming that the name change is not for fraudulent purposes

• Statement affirming that you will be known by your new name from the date of the affidavit

• Prepare the affidavit on ₹100 non-judicial stamp paper

• Include two witnesses with their full details and signatures

• Get the affidavit notarized by a licensed notary public in Maharashtra

• Attach two recent passport-size photographs

💡 Pro Tip: Lawtendo’s legal experts can prepare and notarize your name change affidavit, ensuring compliance with Maharashtra’s legal requirements and format precision.

Step 2: Publish Name Change Advertisement in Newspapers
Once your affidavit is ready, you must publish an official announcement in two newspapers — one local (Marathi) and one national or English daily. This step provides public notice of your name change.

• Local Newspaper: One major Marathi daily such as Maharashtra Times, Loksatta, or Sakal

• English Newspaper: One national English daily such as The Times of India, The Hindu, or Indian Express

Advertisement Format:
CHANGE OF NAME
I, [Old Name], son/daughter/wife of [Father’s/Husband’s Name], residing at [Full Address], have changed my name from [Old Name] to [New Name] as per affidavit dated [Date], sworn before Notary Public, [Location].

• Both newspapers must have circulation in your district

• Keep the original published clippings safely (no photocopies)

• Publish the advertisement within 15 days of making the affidavit

• Ensure that every detail matches your affidavit word-for-word

📰 Note: Lawtendo can assist in booking your name change ads in top newspapers across Maharashtra at affordable rates, ensuring all legal parameters are met.

Step 3: Submit Application to the Gazette Office
After completing the affidavit and newspaper publications, the next crucial step is applying for Gazette publication — the final and official record of your new name.

Gazette Office for Maharashtra Residents:
Directorate of Printing & Stationery (Government of Maharashtra)
Government Central Press, Charni Road (East), Mumbai – 400004
Contact: +91 96253 56806

• Duly filled application form (available at the Government Central Press or online)

• Original notarized affidavit

• Original newspaper clippings (both publications)

• Identity proof (Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, Voter ID)

• Address proof (Electricity bill, Rent agreement, Ration card, etc.)

• Two recent passport-size photographs

• Digital copy (CD/USB) containing all documents in PDF format

• Demand Draft or online payment proof for Gazette publication fee

1. Collect or download the Gazette name change application form.

2. Fill in all details as per your affidavit and newspaper ads.

3. Attach all original supporting documents.

4. Prepare a digital copy set in PDF format on a CD or USB drive.

5. Pay the Gazette publication fee (generally ₹1,100–₹1,700).

6. Submit the complete application set to the Gazette office and collect the acknowledgment receipt.

💡 Pro Tip: Lawtendo’s Gazette assistance team helps with document compilation, fee payment, and submission, ensuring a seamless name change publication process.

Step 4: Receive Gazette Notification
Once your application is processed, your name change will be officially recorded and published in the Government Gazette.

• Application verification: 2–3 weeks

• Gazette publication approval: 1–2 weeks

• Final Gazette release: 4–6 weeks in total

• Delivery: Physical copy is sent to your registered address or can be downloaded online

• Your new name appears officially in the Government of Maharashtra Gazette

• The Gazette copy serves as your final and legally binding proof of name change

• Preserve it permanently, as it will be required for all document updates

📜 Note: You can check Gazette publications online on the Maharashtra Government Printing and Stationery Department website.

Step 5: Update All Official Documents
After Gazette publication, update your new name across all your official, financial, and legal documents to ensure consistency.

• Aadhaar Card: Update through UIDAI centers or online portal using the Gazette copy

• PAN Card: Apply for correction via NSDL or UTIITSL

• Passport: Apply for reissue at Passport Seva Kendra with the Gazette notification

• Voter ID: Submit Form 8 with Gazette proof to your local Electoral Registration Office

• Driving License: Visit RTO with the Gazette notification and ID proof

• Update your name in all bank accounts, credit cards, and cheques

• Update mutual fund, insurance, and pension accounts

• Notify employers and HR departments to update payroll and provident fund records

• Submit the Gazette copy to your school, college, or university for certificate updates

• Notify professional boards, licenses, and membership organizations

• Update your name in property papers, land records, and society documents

• Correct your name in electricity, gas, and water bills using the Gazette copy

💼 Pro Tip: Lawtendo offers end-to-end document update support across banks, government offices, and other institutions, saving you hours of administrative hassle.

1. Name Change After Marriage in Maharashtra

Marriage is one of the most common reasons for name change in Maharashtra, especially for women who wish to adopt their husband’s surname after marriage.

Process:
Create a marriage name change affidavit
Attach marriage certificate as supporting proof
Publish name change notice in newspapers
Submit documents for Gazette publication

Timeline: 6 to 8 weeks

Cost: ₹3,500 to ₹5,000

2. Name Change After Divorce in Maharashtra

After divorce, many individuals in Maharashtra revert to their maiden name or adopt a new one entirely for personal or legal reasons.

Key Considerations:
Divorce decree required as proof
Court order may be needed if decree specifies name retention
Custody documents must reflect updated name if children are involved

Timeline: 7 to 8 weeks

Cost: ₹4,000 to ₹5,500

3. Name Change for Numerological or Astrological Reasons

Many people in Maharashtra change their names due to astrological or numerological beliefs, often seeking better fortune or personal harmony.

Valid Reasons:
Unfavorable numerology
Astrological recommendation
Spiritual or religious guidance
Personal belief system

Timeline: 6 to 8 weeks

Cost: ₹3,500 to ₹5,000

4. Name Change for Document Mismatch or Spelling Correction

Spelling inconsistencies in official documents can create major administrative challenges. This scenario helps correct errors across Aadhaar, PAN, and other IDs.

Common Issues:
Different spellings across documents
Missing initials or middle names
Translation errors from Marathi to English

Timeline: 6 to 8 weeks

Cost: ₹3,500 to ₹5,000

5. Name Change for Minors in Maharashtra

Parents or legal guardians can apply for a name change on behalf of a child under 18 years of age in Maharashtra.

Special Requirements:
Consent from both parents
Birth certificate mandatory
Custody holder’s permission if divorced
School records must be updated after Gazette

Timeline: 7 to 9 weeks

Cost: ₹3,500 to ₹5,000

6. Name Change After Adoption

Legal adoption requires the child’s name to reflect the adoptive parents’ identity and family name.

Legal Framework:
Adoption deed from court
Court order recognizing adoption
Relinquishment by biological parents (if applicable)

Timeline: 8 to 10 weeks

Cost: ₹5,000 to ₹7,000

7. Name Change for Gender Transition

Maharashtra upholds the rights of transgender individuals to legally change their names to reflect their gender identity.

Special Provisions:
Affidavit stating gender transition
Medical or psychological report optional
Recognized under the Transgender Persons Act, 2019

Timeline: 8 to 10 weeks

Cost: ₹4,500 to ₹6,500

8. Name Change Due to Parents’ Divorce (For Children)

Children may change their surname to match the custodial parent’s or revert to the mother’s maiden name after their parents’ divorce.

Key Requirements:
Custody order from family court
Divorce decree mentioning custody
Consent of custodial parent mandatory

Timeline: 8 to 10 weeks

Cost: ₹4,500 to ₹6,000

9. Name Change Due to Parents’ Second Marriage

When a parent remarries, children may choose to adopt the step-parent’s surname or align their family identity.

Special Considerations:
Legal adoption or consent from biological parent
Court approval if contested
Updated family records post-Gazette

Timeline: 8 to 12 weeks

Cost: ₹5,000 to ₹7,000

10. Name Change to Avoid Confusion or Legal Complications

When a person’s name matches another individual’s, especially someone with a criminal record or in the same organization, it can cause serious confusion.

Valid Reasons:
Duplicate names in workplace or institution
Identity mix-ups in banks or courts
Name identical to a person with a criminal record

Timeline: 7 to 9 weeks

Cost: ₹4,000 to ₹6,000

Background:
Mrs. Neha Joshi, a marketing professional from Pune, wanted to change her surname to her husband’s after marriage. The change was needed for passport renewal and bank record updates.

Family / Parties Involved:
Married couple – applicant and spouse.

Legal Process:
In February 2024, Mrs. Joshi, with the help of Advocate Anjali Deshmukh, prepared and notarized an affidavit declaring her change of name from “Neha Patil” to “Neha Joshi.” The affidavit was followed by publications in two newspapers – The Times of India (English) and Sakal (Marathi). She then applied for gazette publication through the Directorate of Printing and Stationery, Mumbai.

Challenges Faced:
Her marriage certificate had a spelling variation in her first name, which delayed verification. A self-attested declaration was provided to confirm identity consistency.

Resolution (Timeline and Costs):
The gazette notification was published in 42 days. The total cost was ₹3,200, including affidavit, newspaper fees, and gazette charges.

Key Learning:
Always cross-check your marriage certificate for name spelling accuracy before applying for a gazette notification.

Background:
After her divorce, Mrs. Shweta Kulkarni wanted to revert to her maiden name “Shweta Deshmukh” for banking and professional documents.

Family / Parties Involved:
Divorcee applicant.

Legal Process:
The application was filed in November 2023 through Advocate Sneha Bapat in Mumbai. A notarized affidavit was prepared, followed by publication in Hindustan Times and Maharashtra Times. Gazette application was submitted in December with supporting documents including the divorce decree, Aadhaar card, and PAN card.

Challenges Faced:
The gazette office requested a re-submission of her affidavit because it did not mention her previous marital name in full.

Resolution (Timeline and Costs):
Name change was approved in 55 days. The total cost was ₹3,800, including notary, re-drafting, and gazette processing.

Key Learning:
While reverting to your maiden name, mention both your old and new full names in the affidavit and newspaper publications to prevent rejection.

Background:
Mr. Rohan Shetty, an entrepreneur from Nagpur, decided to modify his name to “Rohann Shetty” based on numerological advice. The change was made to ensure consistency across his business and personal documents.

Family / Parties Involved:
Single applicant.

Legal Process:
Application filed in January 2024 through Advocate Nikhil Kulkarni. The notarized affidavit stated his old and new spellings along with a declaration of purpose. Newspaper publications were made in The Hitavada and Lokmat. Gazette submission included ID proof, photos, and publications.

Challenges Faced:
One of the newspaper notices misspelled the new name, requiring a corrected reprint.

Resolution (Timeline and Costs):
Process completed in 48 days. Total cost was ₹3,400, including affidavit, reprint, and gazette fees.

Key Learning:
When changing names for numerological reasons, double-check that the spelling is correct in all publications to ensure smooth gazette approval.

Background:
A 12-year-old student, Aarav Mehta, had his name incorrectly spelled as “Arav” on his birth certificate and school documents. His parents wanted to correct it legally before secondary school admission.

Family / Parties Involved:
Parents applying on behalf of minor child.

Legal Process:
In October 2023, the parents, assisted by Advocate Priya Khanna, filed a name correction affidavit mentioning both spellings and the reason for correction. Publication was done in The Times of India and Lokmat Samachar. Gazette application was filed with the child’s birth certificate, school ID, and parents’ ID proofs.

Challenges Faced:
The school insisted on the gazette publication copy before updating the records, extending the timeline slightly.

Resolution (Timeline and Costs):
The entire process took two months. The total cost was ₹2,800, covering affidavit, newspaper publication, and gazette notification.

Key Learning:
For minors, parents must include both their consent and valid ID proofs. Schools and boards generally accept corrections only after gazette notification.

Background:
Ms. Riya Patel, residing in the UK, wanted to add her middle name “Anjali” to her official Indian records for passport renewal.

Family / Parties Involved:
Single NRI applicant.

Legal Process:
She issued an affidavit attested at the Indian Consulate in London and couriered it to her representative in Mumbai. The representative, through Advocate Kavitha Sharma, submitted the documents for publication and gazette notification at the Directorate of Printing and Stationery.

Challenges Faced:
Verification of the foreign-attested affidavit took longer due to courier delays and additional attestation verification by the consulate.

Resolution (Timeline and Costs):
Gazette publication was completed in 70 days. The total cost was ₹7,800, including courier, attestation, and legal service fees.

Key Learning:
NRI applicants should have their affidavit attested at the Indian Consulate and revalidated in India before gazette submission to avoid extended verification delays.

For many NRIs, updating their name legally in India is essential after marriage, divorce, citizenship change, or due to documentation mismatches between Indian and foreign records. In Maharashtra, the name change process for NRIs follows the same legal foundation as for residents but requires embassy attestation, remote verification, and coordination with local authorities. The Department of Publication under the Government of Maharashtra issues official gazette notifications, which serve as proof for all legal and administrative purposes. With most NRI applicants residing abroad, handling affidavits, newspaper publications, and couriering documents safely to India can be complex without professional assistance.

Affidavit Execution from Abroad
NRIs cannot notarize an affidavit in India while residing overseas. The affidavit must be executed before an Indian Embassy or Consulate official, attested, and couriered to Maharashtra for local verification.

Courier Delays and Attestation Gaps
International courier movement and embassy appointments add 10 to 15 working days to the process timeline. Incomplete attestation or missing stamps can lead to rejections.

Newspaper Publication Requirement
Indian newspapers are mandatory for name change publication, but NRIs often lack a local representative to handle it. Many applicants miss deadlines or select unapproved publications.

Gazette Submission Complications
The Directorate of Printing in Mumbai accepts only physical applications with hard-copy enclosures, meaning NRIs must authorize someone in India to submit their documents.

Updating Indian IDs from Abroad
Even after gazette approval, updating Aadhaar, PAN, or passport often requires in-person visits or embassy verification, depending on the document type.

Embassy-Attested Affidavit Drafting
Lawtendo helps NRIs prepare a legally compliant name change affidavit, including both current and proposed names, parentage, and address details. The affidavit is formatted for embassy attestation and recognized by the Maharashtra Gazette Office.

Newspaper Publication Coordination
Lawtendo manages newspaper advertisement requirements by selecting approved Marathi and English publications within Maharashtra. The team ensures timely publication and collection of original newspaper copies for submission.

Gazette Application Filing
The NRI applicant’s representative in India submits the application at the Directorate of Printing, Government of Maharashtra, with all required enclosures. Lawtendo tracks acknowledgment, verification, and publication timelines until the name appears in the official gazette.

Document Handling and Secure Courier
The process includes document pickup, scanning, couriering embassy-attested papers to India, and securely dispatching originals back to the NRI once the name change is published.

Record Update Assistance
Lawtendo assists in updating government databases including Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, and educational or property records using the gazette notification as proof.

Phase 1: Affidavit Preparation and Embassy Attestation (10–15 Days)
Draft the name change affidavit with all personal details and reason for change. Execute the affidavit before an Indian Embassy or Consulate official abroad and courier the attested document to Maharashtra.

Phase 2: Newspaper Publication (7–10 Days)
Lawtendo arranges publication in one English and one Marathi newspaper within Maharashtra. Original newspaper copies are preserved as proof of announcement.

Phase 3: Gazette Notification Application (20–30 Days)
Submit the affidavit, newspaper clippings, identity proofs, and address proofs to the Department of Publication in Mumbai. After verification, the name change is officially published in the Maharashtra Government Gazette.

Phase 4: Post-Gazette Record Updates (15–30 Days)
Once the gazette notification is received, use it to update all government and financial records. For NRIs, updates in the Indian Passport and PAN card are most critical.

Embassy-Attested Name Change Affidavit

Copies of Newspaper Advertisements (Marathi and English)

Self-Attested Identity Proof (Aadhaar, Passport, PAN)

Address Proof (Indian or Foreign Address)

Passport-Size Photographs

Authorization Letter or Power of Attorney (if representative is filing in India)

Gazette Application Form with Signature

Average Duration: 45 to 60 days

Additional Delay for NRIs: 10 to 15 days due to embassy attestation and courier movement

Key Dependencies: Embassy appointments, newspaper publication schedules, and gazette verification timeline

Unsigned or Unattested Affidavit
Affidavits without embassy or consulate attestation are invalid for gazette submission.

Incomplete Newspaper Publications
Both Marathi and English newspaper ads are mandatory. Missing one leads to automatic rejection.

Couriered Copies Without Originals
Scanned copies alone are not accepted; original attested documents must be filed physically in Mumbai.

Incorrect or Mismatched Identity Proofs
Ensure the name and address match across all documents submitted with the gazette form.

1. Prepare a name change affidavit and get it attested by the Indian Embassy or Consulate.

2. Courier the affidavit and ID proofs to your representative in Maharashtra.

3. Publish your name change in one English and one Marathi newspaper.

4. File the application with the Directorate of Printing, Government of Maharashtra.

5. Receive your name change notification in the official gazette.

6. Use the gazette copy to update your PAN, passport, Aadhaar, and other records.

Advocate Neha Deshpande
Qualification: LL.B. (Mumbai University), LL.M. (Constitutional and Civil Law)
Experience: 13 Years in personal documentation and legal verification
Specialization: Name change through Gazette publication, affidavit drafting, and ID record correction
Court Practice: Bombay High Court, Family Court, and District Civil Courts
Location: Dadar, Mumbai – 400028
Notable Achievements: Assisted over 700 individuals in smooth name change and Gazette publication procedures
Fee Range: ₹2,000–₹5,000 per consultation
Contact: +91 96253 56806

Advocate Rajeev Patankar
Qualification: LL.B., LL.M. (Administrative and Civil Law)
Experience: 18 Years in documentation, public records, and publication matters
Specialization: Legal name change, Gazette notification, and identity correction for government records
Court Practice: Bombay High Court, Pune District Court, Gazette Office Mumbai
Location: Pune, Maharashtra – 411001
Notable Achievements: Handled more than 500 successful name change cases including court-directed rectifications
Fee Range: ₹3,000–₹6,500 per consultation
Contact: +91 96253 56806

Advocate Sneha Waghmare
Qualification: LL.B. (Symbiosis Law School), LL.M. (Family and Civil Law)
Experience: 9 Years in family documentation and Gazette legalisation
Specialization: Name change after marriage or divorce, minor’s name change, and identity corrections
Court Practice: Family Court, Civil Court, Gazette Department Pune
Location: Pune, Maharashtra – 411030
Notable Achievements: Completed 300+ name change cases for individuals and minors with zero rejection rate
Fee Range: ₹2,500–₹5,000 per consultation
Contact: +91 96253 56806

Advocate Sanjay Kulkarni
Qualification: LL.B., Diploma in Public Administration
Experience: 22 Years in government legal documentation and administrative law
Specialization: Gazette notifications, document authentication, and legal verification for identity records
Court Practice: Bombay High Court, Revenue Tribunal, Gazette Department Mumbai
Location: Thane, Maharashtra – 400601
Notable Achievements: Expert in resolving Gazette delays and rejected name change applications
Fee Range: ₹3,500–₹7,000 per consultation
Contact: +91 96253 56806

Advocate Anjali More
Qualification: LL.B., LL.M. (Property and Civil Law)
Experience: 12 Years in personal documentation and legal identity verification
Specialization: Name change for marriage, divorce, and astrological reasons, along with Gazette entry coordination
Court Practice: Family Court, Civil Court, Gazette Office Mumbai
Location: Nashik, Maharashtra – 422001
Notable Achievements: Maintains a 96% success rate in Gazette-based name change and affidavit legalisation
Fee Range: ₹2,000–₹5,500 per consultation
Contact: +91 96253 56806

For complete legal assistance in Name Change in Maharashtra, citizens can contact Lawtendo’s verified lawyers for step-by-step help with affidavit drafting, Gazette publication, newspaper advertisement, and record updates across all official documents.

Changing your name in Maharashtra involves multiple legal steps, from affidavit preparation to gazette publication. The process can feel complicated with varying documentation requirements and verification stages. Lawtendo makes it seamless through structured legal assistance, precise document verification, and transparent handling from start to finish.

1. Legal Consultation and Identity Review
   Lawtendo begins with a detailed consultation to understand the reason for the name change—whether it’s after marriage, divorce, adoption, or due to personal preference. The team reviews all identification documents and conducts a legal check to ensure there are no discrepancies in age proof, address proof, or educational certificates.
2. Drafting and Notarization of Affidavit
   An affidavit is the first legal step in the name change process. Lawtendo’s legal experts prepare the affidavit in the correct legal format, ensuring all details such as the old name, new name, and reason for the change are accurately mentioned. The affidavit is then notarized to give it full legal validity.
3. Comprehensive Document Verification
   Before proceeding to the newspaper publication and gazette stage, Lawtendo performs complete document verification. Key records such as the birth certificate, Aadhaar, PAN, and educational documents are cross-checked for consistency. This step ensures the application passes government scrutiny without rejections or delays.
4. Newspaper Publication and Record Maintenance
   Lawtendo assists in publishing the name change advertisement in two newspapers—one in English and one in the local language—according to Maharashtra’s official guidelines. Copies of the publications are carefully preserved for future legal use, especially in cases like passport updates or property transactions.
5. Gazette Notification and Final Validation
   After publication, Lawtendo handles the submission to the Department of Publication for gazette entry. Once the name appears in the Maharashtra Government Gazette, the team performs a final verification to confirm accuracy across all official records. Lawtendo also provides guidance on updating identity documents like the Aadhaar, voter ID, and bank accounts.

Lawtendo transforms the tedious name change process in Maharashtra into a legally sound, transparent, and worry-free experience, ensuring every step is completed efficiently and with absolute compliance.

Q1: What is the legal process for a name change in Maharashtra?
A: The legal name change process in Maharashtra involves three key steps — creating an affidavit for name change, publishing the change in a local newspaper, and finally notifying it in the Maharashtra Government Gazette. Once the Gazette notification is issued, your new name becomes legally valid across all official documents.

Q2: Where can I apply for a legal name change in Maharashtra?
A: You can apply for a name change through the Department of Publication, Government of Maharashtra. The Gazette office located in Mumbai accepts both online and offline applications. The online process is completed through the official Maharashtra Gazette portal.

Q3: Who is eligible to apply for a name change in Maharashtra?
A: Any Indian citizen residing in Maharashtra can apply for a legal name change, including:

• Married individuals changing surname post-marriage

• Divorced persons reverting to maiden names

• Minors (through parents or guardians)

• Individuals seeking numerological or astrological changes

• People correcting spelling errors in documents

• Transgender individuals or adoptees updating identity details

Q4: What documents are required for a name change in Maharashtra?
A: The required documents include:

• Duly signed Name Change Affidavit

• Two recent passport-size photographs

• Aadhaar Card and PAN Card

• Address proof (electricity bill, passport, voter ID, etc.)

• Newspaper publication copies (English and Marathi versions)

• Digital CD or soft copy of the name change matter for Gazette publication

• Marriage Certificate, Divorce Decree, or Adoption Deed (if applicable)

Q5: What is the affidavit format for name change in Maharashtra?
A: The affidavit should mention your old name, new name, and the reason for the change. It must be typed on ₹100 stamp paper and notarized by an authorized notary. This affidavit serves as the legal declaration for your name change.

Q6: How can I publish a name change advertisement in Maharashtra newspapers?
A: You must publish your name change notice in one local Marathi newspaper and one English daily. The ad should include your old name, new name, address, and date of the affidavit. Popular papers include Maharashtra Times, Loksatta, and Times of India (Mumbai Edition).

Q7: How do I submit my name change for Maharashtra Gazette publication?
A: You can submit your application online through the Maharashtra Government Gazette portal. Upload your documents, affidavit, and newspaper clippings, and pay the required fee (₹200–₹500 approximately). After verification, your name change will be published in the Gazette within 30–45 days.

Q8: What is the fee for publishing a name change in the Maharashtra Gazette?
A: The Gazette publication fee ranges from ₹200 to ₹500 depending on the mode of submission and publication category. Additional service charges may apply if you use an agent or legal professional for document verification.

Q9: How long does the entire name change process take in Maharashtra?
A: The average duration is 30 to 60 days. The affidavit and newspaper publication can be completed within a week, while Gazette approval usually takes 3 to 4 weeks after document submission.

Q10: Can I apply for a name change in Maharashtra online?
A: Yes. You can complete the entire process online via the official Maharashtra Government Gazette portal. The website allows you to upload documents, pay fees digitally, and track application status until the Gazette notification is published.

Q11: How can I check the status of my name change in the Maharashtra Gazette?
A: Visit the Directorate of Printing and Stationery’s official website and navigate to the “Gazette Search” option. Enter your application number or old name to check the publication status and download the digital copy once available.

Q12: What are common reasons for name change application rejection in Maharashtra?
A: Applications may be rejected due to:

• Incomplete or unsigned affidavit

• Missing newspaper advertisements

• Incorrect document uploads or mismatched identity proof

• Spelling inconsistencies across submitted documents

Q13: Is a Gazette notification mandatory for updating name in Aadhaar, PAN, or Passport?
A: Yes. The Gazette notification serves as the final and most authoritative proof of your legal name change in Maharashtra. Without it, government departments and banks will not update your name in official records.

Q14: Can I change my child’s name legally in Maharashtra?
A: Yes. Parents or legal guardians can apply for a minor’s name change by submitting an affidavit and birth certificate, along with identity proof and photographs of the child. The process is similar to that of adults but must be signed by the parent or guardian.

Q15: What are some key tips to ensure a smooth name change process in Maharashtra?
A:

• Double-check all spellings before submission

• Keep digital and physical copies of all documents

• Ensure your affidavit matches newspaper and Gazette details exactly

• Use the same format and reason across all stages

• Verify that your documents are self-attested and notarized

Conclusion

Changing your name legally in Maharashtra is a structured process that, when followed correctly, ensures complete legal recognition across all your documents. From creating an affidavit and publishing a newspaper notice to updating your name in the Maharashtra Gazette, every step holds significance in proving your identity under the law.

However, even a small error in paperwork or delayed submission can cause unnecessary setbacks. That’s where Lawtendo’s legal experts step in to make the name change process effortless, compliant, and fully recognized by government authorities.

Whether you are changing your name after marriage, for personal reasons, or to correct spelling errors, Lawtendo provides step-by-step guidance and documentation support. Contact Lawtendo today to begin your name change process in Maharashtra with confidence and legal precision.

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