Is a Jurat the Same as an Affirmation?

Jurats and Affirmations are done in front of the notary.

Many people hear the words jurat and affirmation during a notarization and assume they mean the same thing. While they are related, they are not the same.

A jurat is a type of notarization used when a person must declare that the information in a document is true.

During a jurat, the notary will ask the signer to make a sworn statement about the truthfulness of the document. This statement can be made in two ways: through an oath or an affirmation.

An oath involves swearing that the information is true, traditionally referencing a religious belief.

An affirmation is a similar declaration, but it does not involve any religious reference. Instead, the signer simply affirms that the information is truthful based on their personal honor.

In both cases, the signer must sign the document in the presence of the notary, and the notary completes the jurat certificate.

The simple difference:

• Jurat: the type of notarization being performed

• Affirmation: one way a signer can declare that the document is true

Understanding this difference helps the notarization process go smoothly and ensures documents are completed correctly.

FC Signings & Co. provides professional notary services with care, clarity, and attention to proper procedure.

Schedule an appointment. Click here.