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.
Acknowledgement and jurat certificates are the two most common notarial acts, yet, for many signers, there is confusion about the difference between these forms. Some notaries even find it difficult to remember which procedures apply to which certificate.
One of the most common mistakes that notaries make is not printing or signing their name exactly as it appears on their notary commission.
Starting August 1, 2024, Illinois residents applying to be Notary Public or Electronic Notary Public must use our online application. Those who qualify for a hardship exemption can choose to use a paper application. For questions about this policy, please call 217-782-7017 or email enotary@ilsos.
The State processing time, once submitted, is 4-6 weeks. Once your application has been approved, you will receive your notary public certificate from the State, and stamp(s) and supplies from us. Once you have your certificate in hand, you may use your new notary stamp and the process is complete.
Here are the top twelve most common errors made by notaries: Making an Illegible Notary Stamp Impression. Improper Storage of Your Notary Stamp and Journal. Not Determining the Signer's Competency and Willingness to Sign. Notarizing for Close Relatives. Failing to Remain Properly Trained.
Effective Jan. 1, 2024: New and renewing notaries are required to take a minimum of three hours of training and take a 50-question final exam with a passing score of 85%. There will be an approved list of course providers on the Illinois Secretary of State website.
The following are basic rules for proper and safe notarization: 1) Keep your notary seal in a safe place; 2) Do not notarize a signature unless the signer is present at the time of notarization; 3) Do not lend your stamp to anyone, including your employer; 4) Do not identify a document signer on the word of a friend or ...
As a notary public, you are required to keep a notary journal to record important information about your notarial acts. This serves as a permanent record for future reference and verification.
To become a non-resident notary public, you must be a resident of a qualifying bordering state, which includes Iowa, Kentucky, Missouri, Indiana, and Wisconsin. You must also have worked or maintained a business in Illinois for 30 days before this application.
