When it comes to notarization, not all signatures are created equal. Two of the most common notarial acts are acknowledgments and jurats, but many people don’t know the difference. Choosing the right one is crucial because each serves a different legal purpose. Whether you’re signing a real estate deed, power of attorney, or affidavit, understanding when to request an acknowledgment versus a jurat can help avoid unnecessary delays in processing your documents.
What is an Acknowledgment Notarial Act?
An acknowledgment is a notarial act where the signer declares that they signed the document willingly and voluntarily. This type of notarization is typically required for real estate transactions, business contracts, and legal agreements. The key aspect of an acknowledgment is that the signer does not need to sign the document in front of the notary, but they must personally appear before the notary to confirm that the signature is theirs. The notary will then verify the signer’s identity and apply their official seal.
What is a Jurat Notarial Act?
A jurat is a notarial act where the signer must sign the document in front of the notary and take an oath or affirmation swearing that the contents of the document are true. Jurats are commonly used for affidavits, sworn statements, and depositions—documents where the signer is legally attesting to the truthfulness of the information. Unlike acknowledgments, a jurat requires the notary to witness the signing and administer the oath before notarizing the document.
Key Differences Between an Acknowledgment and a Jurat
- Signing Requirement: An acknowledgment allows pre-signed documents, whereas a jurat requires signing in front of the notary.
- Purpose: Acknowledgments confirm a signature’s authenticity, while jurats verify the truthfulness of a statement.
- Oath or Affirmation: Jurats require an oath or affirmation, acknowledgments do not.
- Common Uses: Acknowledgments are typically for real estate and contracts, while jurats are used for sworn statements.
Which One Do You Need?
If you need to prove you willingly signed a document, an acknowledgment is required. If you need to swear that the contents of a document are true, a jurat is necessary. If you’re unsure which one applies to your document, it’s always best to check with the requesting party or consult with a notary before signing.
Understanding the difference between an acknowledgment and a jurat ensures you choose the right notarization for your needs. Remote Online Notarization (RON) makes both types of notarizations more accessible and convenient than ever. Whether you need an acknowledgment or a jurat, our fast, secure, and affordable service—only $15 per stamp—can help you complete the process in minutes.
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