Authority Letter (to collect documents / act on my behalf)
प्राधिकार पत्र (अथॉरिटी लेटर)
यह फॉर्म गाइड हिंदी में पढ़ें (Read in Hindi) →
Formal authorization letter empowering a trusted family member or representative to collect official documents, certificates, or represent the applicant.
Documents required (आवश्यक दस्तावेज)
- Applicant self-attested photo ID copy
- Authorised representative self-attested photo ID copy
- Original receipt / token / acknowledgment slip of the document to be collected
Key details
- Authority: Any Administrative / Commercial / Government Office
- Stamp paper / fee: None (Written on plain paper; signature of authorised representative must be attested by applicant)
- How to submit: Physical presentation by authorised representative at office counter
- Processing time: Immediate (On presentation)
How to apply
Identify the Authorized Representative
Choose a trusted person (family member or colleague) who carries valid government-issued photo identification.
Draft the Scope of Authority
Specify the exact document, certificate, or task to be executed (e.g., collect degree certificate or collect registration book).
Attest Representative Specimen Signature
Have the representative sign on the letter, and sign alongside to officially attest their specimen signature.
Attach Identity Proof Copies
Attach self-attested copies of both the applicant and representative identity cards along with original collection receipts.
Present at the Office Counter
The representative visits the office in person, presents their original ID proof for inspection, and collects the required documents.
How to fill the form
- Clearly state the representative full name, relation, and government ID number.
- Specify the exact department name and file or token reference number.
- Define the exact scope of authority so that misuse is prevented.
- Provide a validity end date for this authorization letter.
- Ensure the representative specimen signature is clearly verified by you.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Giving an open-ended authorization without specifying the exact task or documents.
- Forgetting to attach the original token or receipt slip required by the office.
- Not providing the representative with their original photo ID for spot verification.
- Missing the applicant signature attesting the representative specimen signature.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is an authority letter valid for collecting a passport?
No. As per Passport Seva guidelines, passports are delivered directly to the applicant address via speed post or handed over in person; third-party collection is generally disallowed except in extraordinary verified medical emergencies.
- Does an authority letter require a stamp paper or notary?
Simple authority letters for collecting certificates or documents are normally accepted on plain paper. However, for property, financial, or court matters, a registered Power of Attorney (PoA) on judicial stamp paper is legally required.
- Can an authority letter be revoked?
Yes. An applicant can revoke an authority letter at any time prior to execution by delivering written notice to the concerned office.
- What should the representative carry to the office?
The representative must carry this original signed authority letter, self-attested copies of both IDs, their own original ID proof for spot verification, and the original collection slip.
- Can an authority letter be used for bank cash withdrawals?
Banks do not permit cash withdrawals via simple authority letters; bearer cheque rules or formal mandates apply for bank operations.
More forms in Identity & Civic Documents
- Voter ID Registration Form (Form 6)
- New PAN Card Application (Form 49A)
- Fresh Passport Application (Adult Regular / Tatkaal)
- Ration Card - New Family / Member Addition Form
- Marriage Registration Application (Hindu & Special Marriage Acts)
- Aadhaar Enrolment & Mandatory Demographic Update Form
- Voter ID Form 8 (Correction of Entries & Shifting of Residence)
- Passport Annexure E (Standard Affidavit for Urgency / Tatkaal)