What is the difference between an acknowledgment and a jurat?

The distinction between an acknowledgment and a jurat is foundational in notary practice. An acknowledgment serves to verify that the signer is willingly and voluntarily signing a document. It focuses primarily on identifying the signer and confirming their intention to execute the document freely without any coercion. This process ensures that the notary verifies the identity of the signers and witnesses their signature.

In contrast, a jurat enhances this process by requiring the signer to take an oath or affirmation regarding the truthfulness of the contents of the document. This means the signer swears that the information provided is true to the best of their knowledge, adding a layer of truthfulness and legal weight to the document. Therefore, the core differences lie in the intent and the function—an acknowledgment confirms willingness to sign, while a jurat certifies that the signer has sworn to the truth of the document’s contents.

This understanding is crucial for notaries, as each notarial act serves specific legal purposes and implications, ensuring that documents are executed properly and with the necessary legal authenticity.