Address proof also known as proof of Residency Letter :
An address proof letter, as the name itself suggests, is a legal document issued as proof of an individual’s address. A proof of address is demanded by all government, corporate, academic or social organizations before providing any kind of service to an individual. The address proof must be issued by a competent legal authority.
While registering for most of the state or national programs offered by the government, like passport services, visas, Tax or Pan Card, Voter ID Card, social security, green card or other services, it is important to show a valid proof of address. If you need to avail of vital services like electricity, gas, telephone and water connections, one needs to show a proof of address. Even while applying for a job or applying for admission at a school or college, it is mandatory that candidates show address proof. Proof of Residency is also often asked at places like Cyber Cafés, while booking a Hotel, buying Air/Railway tickets, buying or hiring Car and so on.
The Proof of residence is essential because it provides important information about an individual such as Full Name, Gender, Date of birth and family details like Father’s or Mother’s name. A proof of residency letter gives, not only the proof of address or residency where an individual is living, but can also tell us how long that person may have been living there. Sometimes proof of residency documents can be used ID proof as well, as in the case of passport address proof. In case you don’t own a house in the city and you are living in a rented room or apartment, or if you are living in PG, you have to ask your landlord to sign an affidavit or to issue a rent or lease deed, or agreement certified by a competent court and authority. This, proof of residency letter from your landlord will serve as temporary address proof.
The demand for address proof is often meant for security purposes, because along with a proof of identity, every organization needs to get the necessary address verification letter before they associate themselves with an individual. It can also be used as a reference for correspondence so that they have information about an individual for future communication and other legal undertakings.
If you are writing a proof of address letter, remember that it is a legally binding document, the language must be formal. Mention your legal name, and provide your full address and also state the time you've lived there. Make a note of any other residents living at that address for references. Include a legally binding oath at the end of the letter about the accuracy of the information provided. You should also be prepared to have a landlord and/or notaries attest your letter before submitting it.
Proof of address or residency letter can be used as ID proof for identity and for passport as well. Find lots of ready to use sample template below :
