A Simple Guide for Anyone Who Needs a Document Notarized
When you’re preparing a document for court, immigration, real estate, business, or personal matters, you’ll often be told you need it “notarized.” But what many people don’t realize is that not all notarizations are the same. In Florida, the two most common types are jurats and acknowledgments, and each one serves a completely different purpose.
At South Beach Apostille & Notary, we help clients every day who are unsure which type of notarization they actually need. Below is a clear and simple breakdown so you can make the right choice and avoid delays, rejections, or repeated appointments.
What Is a Jurat?
A jurat is used when a signer must swear or affirm that the information in a document is true. The signer must appear before a Florida notary, take an oath, and sign the document in the notary’s presence.
A jurat includes:
- Personal appearance
- Verified identification
- An oath or affirmation
- Signature witnessed by the notary
- A completed notarial jurat certificate
When You Need a Jurat
You should request a jurat when the document requires the signer to “swear” or “affirm” the truth. Common examples include:
- Affidavits
- Sworn statements
- Immigration declarations
- Financial or business statements made under oath
- Witness statements
- Court documents requiring sworn truth
If the document’s wording says anything like “I swear,” “I affirm,” “under penalty of perjury,” or “truthfulness of the contents,” a jurat is usually required.
What Is an Acknowledgment?
An acknowledgment is different. It does not involve swearing to the truth of the document. Instead, it confirms two things:
- The signer is who they claim to be
- The signer voluntarily signed the document
The document may be signed before arriving at the appointment, and no oath is required.
When You Need an Acknowledgment
Acknowledgments are commonly used for:
- Real estate documents
- Deeds and mortgages
- Power of attorney forms
- Trusts
- Financial or banking documents
- Contracts
If the document uses wording such as “acknowledge,” “execute,” “sign voluntarily,” an acknowledgment is likely the correct option.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Requirement | Jurat | Acknowledgment |
| Oath or affirmation | Yes | No |
| Signer must sign in front of notary | Yes | No |
| Purpose | Sworn truth | Confirm voluntary signing |
| Common uses | Affidavits, sworn statements, immigration forms | Real estate, POA, banking, contracts |
Understanding these differences makes it easier to choose the correct notarization type and avoid unnecessary delays, especially when working with government agencies, attorneys, or courts.
Can Both Be Done Online in Florida?
Yes. Florida allows both remote online notarization (RON) for jurats and acknowledgments, thanks to current state law. This makes it easy for clients who are:
- Traveling
- Living abroad
- Unable to visit in person
- On a deadline
Our notaries offer online, mobile, and in-office notarizations for all document types.
How do I know which notarization I need?
Check the wording on your document, or ask the attorney, agency, or institution requesting it. If it contains an oath, it’s a jurat. If it mentions acknowledgment or voluntary signing, it’s an acknowledgment.
Does a jurat make my statement “more official”?
A jurat strengthens the legal weight because you’re swearing the contents are true. This is why courts, immigration offices, and insurers rely on jurats.
Do I need witnesses?
Most jurats and acknowledgments don’t require witnesses unless the document specifically states otherwise, such as a will or certain estate documents.
Serving Miami, Miami Beach, and All of South Florida
South Beach Apostille & Notary proudly serves clients across:
- Miami
- Miami Beach
- Brickell
- Downtown Miami
- Coral Gables
- Aventura
- Sunny Isles
- Bal Harbour
- Surrounding areas
Whether you need a sworn affidavit, an acknowledgment for a real estate closing, or fast online notarization, our team provides prompt and professional service.
Need Help Choosing the Right Notarization? We’ll Guide You.
If you’re not sure whether your document requires a jurat or an acknowledgment, we’ll help you determine the correct option quickly. Bring your document, upload it, or send it before your appointment and we’ll review it for accuracy and compliance.
Call us to schedule your appointment or request a same-day online notarization.
South Beach Apostille & Notary
Your trusted Florida notary team for jurats, acknowledgments, affidavits, and all legal notarizations.