Names change and records don’t always keep up. A married name on one document and a birth name on another, a missing middle name, a different spelling or a transliteration from another alphabet can all cause problems when an organization compares your records. One common solution is a “one and the same person” declaration.
What it is
A one and the same person declaration is a sworn or solemnly declared statement confirming that the different names shown on your documents all refer to you. It is usually made as a statutory declaration or an affidavit and commissioned by a commissioner or notary.
When people use one
- a name differs between a passport, birth certificate and diploma;
- a document uses a shortened, anglicized or transliterated version of your name;
- a bank, pension, school or government office flags a mismatch;
- a foreign authority needs confirmation that two records belong to the same person.
Important: check whether it will be accepted
A declaration does not legally change your name, and not every organization accepts one. Some require a formal name change or an official record correction instead. Before booking, confirm with the organization that raised the issue that a declaration will solve their request.
What to bring
- your declaration, prepared but unsigned (include every version of your name and where each appears);
- valid photo ID;
- the documents showing the different names, if you have them.
We will confirm your identity, administer the declaration, witness your signature and apply our stamp. If the declaration is going abroad, ask whether a notary’s seal or further authentication is needed.
Related reading
- Free template: Affidavit of Identity (One and the Same Person)
- What ID do you need for notarization in Ontario?
- Affidavit of translation
- IMM 5409 common-law declarations
- Notarization mistakes to avoid
Book with Crown Seal Notary
Crown Seal Notary serves Hamilton and the surrounding area seven days a week. In-office appointments are available at 21 King St W, 5th Floor, and our mobile service comes to your home, workplace, hospital or care home. To book, call 289-207-0851, email info@csnotary.org, or book online. You can also browse all of our services or read our FAQs.
Please note: Crown Seal Notary provides notarization and commissioning services only. We do not provide legal, immigration or financial advice, and we cannot tell you what to write in your document. If you are unsure which document you need, please check with the organization that asked for it or speak with a lawyer or licensed paralegal.
