Notarizations

Affidavits are common documents that require notarization. But what exactly is an affidavit and how does the process differ from other notarial acts like witnessing a signature? This article provides a step-by-step guide to notarizing affidavits in Massachusetts.

About Affidavits

What is an Affidavit and How Does it Differ from Other Notarizations? An affidavit is a sworn statement made under oath in front of an authorized notary public. It contains facts and information that the affiant – the person making the statement – swears to be true and accurate. Affidavits are frequently used in legal matters as evidence to support or verify claims.

Unlike just witnessing a signature, affidavits require the notary to formally confirm the identity of the affiant and administer an oath before the affiant signs the document. The notary then fills out and signs a notarial certificate called a Jurat to accompany the affidavit. This validates that the affidavit was properly sworn and made before an authorized notary public.

Step 1 – Find an Authorized Notary Public

The first step is locating a notary public authorized to notarize affidavits in Massachusetts. Not all states have the same requirements and rules for notaries. In Massachusetts, you can search for a notary on the Secretary of the Commonwealth’s website. Be sure to find a notary in the county where you need the affidavit notarized. Mobile notaries like those from Boston Mobile Notary and Apostille (BMNA) are a convenient option for getting documents notarized at your home or office.

Step 2 – Prepare the Affidavit and Jurat Form Before meeting with the notary

The affiant will need to prepare the affidavit statement containing the facts they wish to swear and affirm. This is usually typed on a standard affidavit form. The notary will also need a Jurat form, which contains the notary’s sworn certificate confirming they properly witnessed the signing of the affidavit. The Jurat acts as evidence the affidavit was notarized.

Step 3 – Bring ID and Be Prepared to Take an Oath

The affiant must bring government-issued ID to show the notary as proof of identity. The authorized forms in Massachusetts include a valid driver’s license or passport. The notary will administer a verbal oath to the affiant, who then must swear that the information in the affidavit is completely true. Lying in a sworn affidavit constitutes perjury under Massachusetts law.

Step 4 – Sign the Affidavit in Front of the Notary With the notary as an official witness.

The affiant will sign their affidavit. The notary watches the person sign the document to prevent fraud.

Step 5 – Notary Completes Jurat Form After witnessing the signature,

the notary fills out and signs the Jurat form to accompany the affidavit. This contains their name, commission details, the affiant’s name, the date, county where the affidavit was signed, and usually an embossed seal.

Step 6 – Fees

Pay Any Required Notary Fees There is typically a fee charged by the notary for notarizing affidavits. In Massachusetts, the maximum fee is $10 per signature notarization. Mobile notaries may charge more based on travel time and mileage. BMNA offers competitive rates starting at $95 for visits in the Boston metro area.

Step 7 – Final Steps

Get Copies of the Notarized Affidavit The notary will provide the affiant with the original notarized affidavit and completed Jurat. It’s also smart to make your own photocopies for backup. The originals can then be submitted to the court or other agency as necessary.

Conclusion

Notarizing an affidavit may seem complicated, but a notary public can guide you through the process easily. The licensed notaries at Boston Mobile Notary and Apostille are experts in notarizing Massachusetts affidavits and other documents quickly at your convenience. Contact us today to schedule an appointment to get your affidavit notarized properly the first time.