by Whenever you are notarizing a document, one of the common types of documents is the acknowledgement form and Jurat. While these two are well-known forms in the notarization world, few people are aware of the difference between them. If you are notarizing for the first time and are confused about these two document types, then don’t hesitate.
In this article, we’ll guide you on the meaning of Acknowledgment and Jurat documents, and explain the significant differences between them.
What is a Jurat?
A jurat is a notarial document used by the signer to confirm that the document’s content is true. This type of notarial certificate is commonly used during legal proceedings when the truthfulness of the document is important. The word jurat is taken from the Latin word ‘Juratum est’, meaning ‘it has been sworn’.
Whenever we sign a Jurat document, the notary public must witness the signature of the document after administering the affirmation, and then complete the Jurat certificate that confirms this process took place. The notarization of a Jurat is important and necessary because without it, the document is not acceptable in the court.
Main features of a Jurat document :
Whenever you sign a Jura, you must remember that
- The signer must appear before the notary.
- It is mandatory for the signer to sign the document in front of the notary
- The notary must administer an affirmation or oath to the signer
- Notary must sign and seal the Jurat certificate to confirm that the oath and affirmation have been administered by him
What is Acknowledgement?
Coming to an acknowledgement, which is a notarial document, is used when the signer confirms that they have willingly signed a document. Unlike a Jurat, a notary does not need to witness the actual signing of an acknowledgement form. The signer can also bring a previously signed document to confirm his or her sign.
The main purpose of an acknowledgement document is to ensure the identity of the signer and confirm that the signer has signed the form voluntarily.
Main features of an acknowledgement document :
When you are signing an acknowledgement form, you must remember that
- The signer must appear before the notary
- The signer has to sign in front of the notary
- The notary must verify the identity of the signer through legal method (by checking his/her ID)
- The notary must sign and seal the document.
Acknowledgement vs Jurat: What is the Major Difference Between these Two Notarial Forms
The major difference between an acknowledgement and a Jurat is the notary’s process and the signer’s intent.
An acknowledgement certificate is used when a sign needs to confirm that they have voluntarily signed the document. This document does not require an oath or affirmation, and it can be signed either before or in the presence of the notary.
However, a Jurat requires the signer to sign the document in front of the notary. This type of notarial certificate is a firm, the truthfulness of the content in the document. In this, the notary must administer an oath or affirmation for the sign.
Both notarial certificates require the ID verification of the signer, and must be notarized. In simple words, acknowledgement means voluntarily signing the document, while jurat defines sworn truth.
Are Acknowledgment and Jurat Documents Necessary for Notarization?
Yes, both documents are necessary to notarize. In the United States and many parts of the country, most of the notarized documents are acknowledgment forms and Jurat certificates.
If you want to notarize these documents or any other legal documents like Divorce Papers, Loan Signing Papers, Wills, and more, you must choose an online notarization platform for a simple and secure process. An online notarization platform ensures that every document is notarized instantly. Meet the US-certified notaries now!
Final Verdict
It is essential to understand the significant difference between an acknowledgement and a Jurat document. If you are someone who is confused about getting your document notarized for the first time, this article will provide you with the correct answers to your questions about these two forms. If you have any additional questions about these legal documents, feel free to comment below.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does acknowledgement have a signature?
Yes, and an acknowledgement requires a signature and a printed name of the signer. The primary purpose of the acknowledgement define that the recipients have officially recognised that they have received something.
- Can I notarize an Acknowledgment form online?
Yes, you can notarize an acknowledgement form through the online notarization platform. Use eNotary On Call, a trusted legal notarization platform in the United States, to instantly notarize your documents.
- Is Online Notarization of a Jurat safe?
Yes, Online Notarization is safe. When notarizing a Jurat, you must select a trusted and compliant platform.
