What is the difference between a jurat and an acknowledgment?

Acknowledgments and jurats are the two most common notarial acts, and they serve different legal purposes:

Acknowledgment:

• The signer confirms their identity and that they signed the document voluntarily
• The document may be signed before the notary appointment
• No oath is required
• Common for: deeds, powers of attorney, contracts, and loan documents

Jurat (Verification on Oath or Affirmation):

• The signer must sign the document in the presence of the notary
• The signer takes an oath or affirmation that the contents are truthful
• Also called a "sworn statement"
• Common for: affidavits, depositions, sworn declarations, and court filings

The document itself usually specifies which notarial act is required. If it says "subscribed and sworn" it needs a jurat. If it says "acknowledged before me" it needs an acknowledgment. When in doubt, contact the requesting party or call NotaryLTD at 435-565-1333 and we will help you determine the correct notarization type.