Name Change in Voter ID Card 

Change Surname and Address in Voter ID Card 

Your Voter ID card, or EPIC (Electors Photo Identity Card), is a foundational document for exercising your democratic right. However, life changes—like moving to a new residence or a change in your surname due to marriage or a legal declaration—necessitate updating the details on your official documents. The good news is that the process for an update is straightforward, thanks to the Election Commission of India's (ECI) online and offline services. This blog will serve as your comprehensive guide on how to change name and address in voter id card and other particulars. We'll walk you through the necessary steps, required forms, and documents to ensure a smooth transition, allowing you to vote from your correct constituency with an accurate Voter ID. Keeping your electoral details current is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the electoral 

Understanding Form 8 for Voter ID Updates 

The primary form used for corrections and updates to an existing Voter ID is Form 8. This single application caters to multiple types of changes, making the process consolidated and efficient. 

Types of Changes Handled by Form 8 

• Correction of Entries: This covers basic errors like a misspelling in your name, a wrong date of birth, or a minor address inaccuracy.

• Shifting of Residence: Essential when you move from one constituency to another, or even within the same constituency.

• Replacement of EPIC: For scenarios where your card is lost, destroyed, or mutilated.

• Marking as Person with Disability (PwD): Allows for inclusion in the PwD category on the electoral roll.

The Significance of Accurate Details

A correct Voter ID ensures that you are registered in the right polling station and that your identity is verified without hassle. Inaccurate data can lead to complications during voting and using the ID as proof of identity/address. 

Step-by-Step Guide for Voter ID Name Correction Online

The most convenient method for most citizens is the online portal. You can easily complete the Voter ID name correction online process through the official Voters' Service Portal (VSP) of the ECI.

Online Application Process

1. Access the Portal: Navigate to the official ECI Voters' Service Portal or the NVSP portal.

2. Log In: Register or log in to your account.

3. Select Form 8: On the dashboard, select the 'Correction of Entries in Existing Electoral Roll' option, which directs you to Form 8.

4. Choose the Type of Correction: Select the required correction, such as 'Name' or 'Address' from the list of particulars.

5. Fill the Form: Enter the details of your existing entry and then the correct/new particulars, including your new surname or address.

6. Upload Documents: Attach the necessary supporting documents (Proof of Identity, Proof of Residence, and Name Change Proof).

7. Submit and Track: Submit the application and note down the unique Reference ID for tracking the status of your application.

Documents Required for Name Change 

For a change in surname, especially after marriage or a formal adoption of a new name, you must provide appropriate legal proof. A key document here is the gazette notification for name change which is mandatory for any legally significant name alteration, though in cases of marriage, a marriage certificate might suffice.

• Proof of Identity (Aadhaar Card, Passport, etc.)

• Proof of Name Change (Marriage Certificate, Divorce Decree, or gazette notification for name change)

• Old Voter ID Card (if available)

How to Change Address in Voter ID Card Online

Changing your address is a common requirement after moving. The process also uses Form 8.

Submitting Address Change Request

• Select 'Shifting of Residence': Within Form 8, tick the box for 'Shifting of Residence' or 'Correction of Address'.

• Enter New Address Details: Provide the full, accurate details of your new residential address.

• Upload Address Proof: Upload a self-attested copy of your new Proof of Residence.

Valid Documents for Address Proof

• Water/Electricity/Gas connection Bill (not older than 1 year)

• Aadhaar Card or Passport

• Current Bank/Post Office Passbook

• Registered Rent Lease Deed

Offline Method for Change Name in Voter ID Card 

If you prefer a physical submission, the offline process remains a viable option. 

Steps for Offline Submission

• Obtain Form 8: Visit the Electoral Registration Officer (ERO) or Booth Level Officer (BLO) in your area to get a physical copy of Form 8.

• Fill and Attach: Manually fill out the form with the current and corrected details. Attach self-attested copies of the required supporting documents.

• Submit: Hand over the completed form to the ERO or BLO, who will provide you with an acknowledgement receipt.

Why You Should Keep Your Voter ID Updated

Maintaining current information ensures that you don't face last-minute hurdles during elections and that you can seamlessly use your Voter ID as a valid proof of identity and address for various other purposes.

Tracking and Receiving Your Updated Voter ID

After submitting your application, verification takes place.

The Verification Process 

The BLO may visit your new residence for physical verification. Once verified, the ERO will approve the changes.

Receiving the New Card 

Upon approval, a new EPIC will be issued and either delivered to your new address or made available for download as an e-EPIC. You can always track the status of your application using the Reference ID on the official portal.

Updating your Voter ID card details—be it a major surname alteration or a simple address change—is a mandatory civic responsibility that ensures your correct representation in the democratic process. By leveraging the online services through Form 8, the process of how to change name and address in voter id card is now more accessible and time-efficient than ever before. Remember that accurate documentation is key to a swift approval; ensure you have the correct proof, such as your marriage certificate or the crucial gazette notification for name change if applicable, before you proceed with the application. Don't wait until the last minute before an election to address these vital updates. Make the correction today, either through the Voter ID name correction online process or by visiting your local ERO/BLO. Keeping your identity and residential details current on your EPIC not only simplifies the voting process but also reinforces the document's validity as a universal proof of identity.