What makes it an affidavit
An affidavit has three parts: a heading with the name of the person making the statement (the affiant), numbered statements of fact, and a notarial jurat at the bottom. The affiant signs only in front of the notary after taking an oath or affirmation.
Because it is sworn, you should include only facts you personally know. Opinions, guesses and things you heard secondhand are better left out or labeled clearly.
Drafting before you go
Write short, numbered paragraphs. State who you are, how you know the facts, and then the facts in plain order. Include dates and names exactly as they appear on related records. Avoid legal phrases you do not understand; plain language is accepted by most receiving offices.
If a lawyer, agency or company gave you a template, use theirs. The notary cannot draft, correct or advise on content. If you need help deciding what to say, an attorney or the requesting office can guide you.
At the appointment
Bring a valid government photo ID and the unsigned affidavit. The notary confirms your identity, asks whether you have read the document, and then administers the oath. You say that the statements are true, sign, and the notary completes the jurat with date, venue and seal.
If there are blanks, cross them out or fill them in beforehand. Notaries are cautious about spaces that could be altered later.
Variations you may see
Some affidavits are sworn by more than one person, in which case each affiant swears separately in front of the notary. Others are 'affidavit of one and the same', 'affidavit of residency' or 'affidavit of support'. Each has its own purpose, but the notarial step is the same: identify, swear, sign, certify.
An affirmation can replace the oath for anyone who prefers not to swear. It has the same formal effect.
Why affidavits get rejected
Typical reasons include an unsigned or pre-signed page, a missing jurat, a notary seal that cannot be read, or a name that does not match supporting documents. Look over your copy before leaving. Check that the notary's name, date and stamp are legible.
If the document will be used abroad, ask the receiving country whether an apostille is required after notarization.
A sample layout to follow
A tidy affidavit starts with a caption such as 'Affidavit of Maria Lopez', then a line saying the affiant is over eighteen and competent to make the statement. Next come numbered facts, each on its own line. Close with a sentence saying the affiant swears or affirms that the statements are true, followed by a signature line.
Below that sits the notary block, which reads something like 'Sworn to and subscribed before me on this date'. Leave that area untouched. The notary fills in the date, the place and their commission details.
Think about the reader. A clerk, adjuster or caseworker will skim the page looking for the specific fact they need. Put the most important fact early, keep each paragraph to a single idea, and avoid long paragraphs that bury dates. If you reference an attached record, such as a lease or a receipt, name it in the text and label the exhibit so the reader can match them.
Common questions
Can a notary write my affidavit for me?
No. A notary may not draft or advise on legal content unless they are also an attorney acting in that role. Use a template from the requesting office or ask an attorney.
Do I need a witness?
Usually not for a standard affidavit. The notary is the official witness to the oath. Check the instructions from the requesting office.
What if I realize a fact is wrong after signing?
Contact the office that received it and consider speaking with an attorney. A corrected affidavit can be sworn again.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Fees and procedures change; check with the office involved or an attorney for your situation.