Acknowledgment vs. Jurat: What’s the Difference and When to Use Each?

Acknowledgment vs. Jurat: Which One Do You Need?

If you've ever been told to “get something notarized,” you’ve likely run into the terms Acknowledgment and Jurat. And if you didn’t know which one to choose—you're not alone.

Many legal documents require notarization, but not all notarizations are the same. Choosing the correct notarial act is crucial to ensure the document is legally valid and won’t be rejected later—especially in real estate transactions, estate plans, or court proceedings.

Let’s walk through the difference between an Acknowledgment and a Jurat, when to use each, and what to do if you’re unsure.

✅ What Is an Acknowledgment?

An Acknowledgment is a notarial act in which the signer confirms that:

• They signed the document willingly

• They understand the contents of the document

• They may have already signed the document before meeting with the notary

Unlike a jurat, an acknowledgment does not require the document to be signed in the notary’s presence. Instead, the signer “acknowledges” that they did, in fact, sign it—either before or during the appointment.

🔎 Common Documents That Use Acknowledgments:

• Trusts and estate planning documents

• Power of attorney forms

• Real estate deeds and refinance paperwork

• Legal contracts or agreements

✅ What Is a Jurat?

A Jurat is a notarial act that requires the signer to:

• Sign the document in front of the notary

• Swear or affirm under oath that the contents of the document are true to the best of their knowledge

In this case, the notary administers an oath or affirmation (which the signer must verbally agree to), and only then does the signer proceed to sign the document.

🔎 Common Documents That Use Jurats:

• Affidavits

• Sworn declarations

• Depositions

• Medical or immigration forms requiring a sworn statement

💡 Hint: If the document includes language like “subscribed and sworn to before me,” it likely needs a Jurat.

🤔 So Which One Do You Need?

Here’s the important part: as notaries, we’re not allowed to decide for you. It’s a legal matter.

However, we can:

• Explain the difference between an acknowledgment and a jurat

• Show you where on the form it may indicate the correct notarial act

• Provide you with both types of California-compliant certificates if your form doesn’t include one

If you’re still unsure, the best option is to ask:

• Your attorney

• The title or escrow officer

• The agency, court, or business that issued the form

💡 Final Tip for a Smooth Signing

If your document doesn’t include a preprinted notarial certificate—don’t worry!
At Riqueza Business Ventures™ LLC, I always bring loose California-compliant certificates for both acknowledgments and jurats. That way, we can complete the signing correctly, regardless of what’s missing from the form.

No need to reschedule or delay your transaction—we’re prepared.

📍 Mobile Notary Services in the Bay Area

Need a notary who explains things clearly, comes to you, and helps keep your documents compliant?

I serve Palo Alto, Redwood City, Menlo Park, and the greater SF Peninsula with flexible mobile appointments, including evenings and weekends.

📅 Book your notary appointment now
👉 www.riquezabusinessventures.com
📞 Call/Text: 510-497-4509