An affidavit is based upon either the personal knowledge of the affiant or his or her information and belief. Personal knowledge is the recognition of particular facts by either direct observation or experience. Information and belief is what the affiant feels he or she can state as true, although not based on firsthand knowledge.
An affidavit is a written statement of facts voluntarily made by an affiant under an oath or affirmation administered by a person authorized to do so by law.
The Easy Answer: Yes, You May Notarize Out-Of-State Documents.
Governor Healey has signed into law, Chapter 2 of the Acts of 2023 (available at: Chap. 2 of the Acts of 2023 – Supp Budget (mass)), which amend M. G. L. c. 222, Sections 23 through 33, allowing documents to be notarized online and completely digitally, without requiring physical stamps and signatures.
The short answer is yes, notary publics are legally allowed to notarize documents from any state as long the notarial act is conducted within the geographical boundaries of the notary's state of commission.
Please note: It takes approximately 2 weeks from the time the applicant mails the completed form back to the State House to receive written notification of the appointment, which will include swearing in instructions. There is no single state-wide office that receives complaints against notaries.
In conclusion, California is widely regarded as the easiest state to become a notary in due to its streamlined application process, lack of mandatory training or exams, and efficient use of technology.
To become a notary in Massachusetts you must complete the application which requires the signatures of four known members of your community. One of the signatures needs to be from an attorney.
No training or exam is required for Massachusetts Notaries, but you're required to read Chapter 222 of the General Laws, as amended by Chapter 289 of the Acts of 2016. On the application, you'll be required to sign under penalty of perjury that you have read the chapter and agree to comply with all of its terms.
One of the most common mistakes that notaries make is not printing or signing their name exactly as it appears on their notary commission.
NOTICE:Notary Oath Appointment Information Oaths are administered by appointment only, at our Boston, Springfield, and Fall River locations. Call ahead to schedule your appointment: Boston: (617) 727-2836. Springfield: (413) 784-1376.
