This is a reference format, not legal advice. Most banks still need you to visit the branch and sign a fresh specimen signature card, even with this affidavit - check whether your branch needs both.
When You Need This
Your signature has changed over the years - due to age, a hand injury, or simply how your handwriting evolved - and no longer matches what your bank has on file, causing cheques or forms to be rejected for signature mismatch.
Enter Your Details
Answer a few quick questions and add your current signature - we'll generate a properly worded affidavit below with your new signature already in place.
Click anywhere in the document above to fine-tune the wording before printing, and add your new signature below.
← Edit DetailsHow to Use This Format
- Generate the document, then use "Add Signature" to draw or upload your current signature into it.
- Print it and take it to your branch - many banks also ask you to sign a fresh specimen signature card there.
- Notarize it if your bank specifically requires that for a signature update.
- Submit it along with any ID proof your branch asks for.
Frequently Asked Questions
When your signature has naturally changed over the years (due to age, a hand injury, or simply how your handwriting evolved) and no longer matches the specimen signature your bank has on file, causing cheques or withdrawal forms to get rejected for signature mismatch.
Most banks still require you to visit the branch in person to update your specimen signature, even with this affidavit - they typically ask you to sign a fresh specimen signature card at the branch counter. Check with your specific bank whether they also need this affidavit alongside that, or if it's optional.
Many banks accept a plain signed declaration for a straightforward signature update, but some ask for notarization, especially for older or high-value accounts. Check with your specific branch.
A general description (e.g., "a cursive full-name signature" vs. "a shorter initials-based signature now") is usually enough - the bank's own specimen signature card on file is the actual record of your old signature, this affidavit just explains and confirms the change.
If you hold accounts at more than one bank, most banks want their own version of this declaration submitted to them separately, even if the reason for the change is the same.