What Happens During a Notary Oath?

Administering an oath is a notarial act.

Some documents require a signer to make a sworn statement before a notary. This process is called taking an oath.

An oath is a formal promise that the information in a document is true.

During a notarization that requires an oath, the notary will ask the signer to raise their hand or verbally confirm their promise of truthfulness. The notary may say something like:

"Do you swear that the statements in this document are true and correct?"

If the signer agrees, the notarization can proceed.

In some cases, the signer may choose to make an affirmation instead of an oath. An affirmation carries the same legal importance but does not include a religious reference.

After the oath or affirmation is made, the signer signs the document in front of the notary, and the notary completes the appropriate certificate.

Why this step matters

The oath helps ensure that the signer understands they are making a truthful declaration. Providing false information after taking an oath or affirmation can carry legal consequences.

Notaries administer these statements to help protect the integrity of important documents.

FC Signings & Co. provides professional notary services with clarity, accuracy, and respect for proper procedure.

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