Confused by "acknowledgment" vs "jurat"? Learn the difference, how to spot the right notarization on your document, and how to avoid appointment delays.
If you've ever looked at the notary wording on your document and thought, "I have no idea what this means," you're not alone.
Two of the most common notarizations are Acknowledgments and Jurats—and mixing them up is one of the biggest reasons notarization appointments get delayed (or have to be rescheduled).
Here's a simple, stress-free breakdown of what each one means, how to spot the difference, and how to make sure your notarization goes smoothly the first time.
You're confirming you signed willingly (or will sign willingly).
You're swearing/affirming the statement is true, and you must sign in front of the notary.
Think of it like this:
Acknowledgment: "Yes, that's my signature, and I meant to sign this."
Jurat: "I swear (or affirm) this is true—and I'm signing it right now."
An Acknowledgment is used when a document needs proof that:
You are who you say you are
You signed voluntarily
Sometimes an acknowledgment allows a document to be already signed, but here's the safest rule that prevents most problems:
If you sign early and the document actually needs a jurat (or has other requirements), the notarization may not be able to proceed.
A Jurat is used when the signer must:
Sign in the notary's presence
Take an oath or affirmation that the content is true
If it's a jurat, you must sign in front of the notary.
No exceptions.
So if you've already signed it at home, we may have to reschedule (or you may need a new copy that hasn't been signed yet).
Look at the notarial certificate wording near the signature area.
Common phrases include:
"Acknowledged before me…"
"The foregoing instrument was acknowledged…"
"Personally appeared… and acknowledged…"
Common phrases include:
"Subscribed and sworn before me…"
"Sworn to (or affirmed) before me…"
"Being first duly sworn…"
If you see the word "sworn", that's your big clue it's likely a jurat.
This happens a lot—especially with online templates.
A notary can't choose for you which notarization you "should" use.
The correct notarization is determined by the receiving agency (court, lender, school, employer), your attorney, or the document instructions.
"Do you need this notarized with an acknowledgment or a jurat?"
If you're working with us, we can help you identify what your document is asking for and make sure you're prepared—so you don't get stuck at the appointment.
If you want a smooth, 10–15 minute appointment, do these three things:
Bring the complete document (no blank sections above the signature line)
Have a current, valid photo ID ready
Don't sign ahead of time unless you're sure it's allowed
Leave the signature line blank and we'll handle it the right way during the appointment.
American Notary Services offers convenient mobile notary appointments across Utah County and Salt Lake County—so you don't have to waste time driving around or waiting in line.
(801) 462-0388
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