Different Types of Notarial Services

1. Acknowledgments

• What it is: The signer acknowledges (confirms) to the notary that they signed a document willingly and that they are who they say they are. The notary verifies their identity and witnesses their signature (or confirms a signature already made).  
• Focus: Identity verification and acknowledgment of a signature. The notary does not verify the truthfulness of the document’s content.  
• Example: Acknowledging a deed when selling a house, signing a power of attorney, or signing a loan document.

2. Jurats

• What it is: The signer swears an oath or makes an affirmation that the statements in a document are true and correct. The notary administers the oath/affirmation and witnesses the signature.
• Focus: Truthfulness of the document’s contents.  
• Example: Swearing to the facts in an affidavit (a written statement used as evidence in court), signing a financial statement under oath.

3. Oaths/Affirmations

• What it is: A formal declaration used to swear to tell the truth or to affirm the truthfulness of a statement.  
• Focus: Solemn promise to tell the truth.  
• Example: Taking an oath of office, giving testimony in court, or affirming the truthfulness of a statement in a legal document. (Often a part of a jurat)

4. Certified Copies

• What it is: The notary verifies that a copy of a document is a true and accurate reproduction of an original document.
• Focus: Authenticating copies of original documents.
• Example: Making a certified copy of a birth certificate, driver’s license, or diploma. (Note: Not all states allow notaries to certify copies)

5. Signature Witnessing

• What it is: The notary simply witnesses the signing of a document and confirms that the person who signed is the person they claim to be. This may or may not include an official notarial certificate.
• Focus: Confirming the identity of the signer and witnessing the act of signing.
• Example: Witnessing the signing of a will, a letter, or an internal company document. (Requirements for signature witnessing vary by state.)

Key Differences

• Acknowledgment vs. Jurat: The main difference lies in whether the signer is confirming the truthfulness of the document’s content (jurat) or simply acknowledging their signature (acknowledgment).
• Oath vs. Affirmation: An oath is a solemn promise invoking a deity, while an affirmation is a solemn promise without religious references. Both serve the same legal purpose.

By understanding these distinctions, you can provide accurate and reliable notary services to your clients.