A signature and name affidavit (sometimes called a “one and the same person” affidavit or name variation affidavit) is a sworn statement that the different versions of your name, and the signatures that go with them, all belong to you. Lenders, title companies and government offices ask for one when your name appears differently on your ID, your credit report and the documents you are signing.
Need one notarized in the Portland area? PDX Fingerprinting offers notary services at our Hillsboro, Beaverton and Lake Oswego offices, or a mobile notary can come to you. Book an appointment online.
What the affidavit says
The form lists every name you have used and shows a sample of each signature. By signing it under oath, you confirm that all of them refer to the same person. A typical affidavit covers:
- Your full legal name as it appears on your government ID
- Name variations, such as with or without a middle name or initial (“Maria L. Garcia”, “Maria Garcia”)
- Former names, such as a maiden name or a name before a legal name change
- Common misspellings or alternate spellings that appear on records
- A signature sample for each variation you actually use
When you might need one
- Mortgage and refinance closings, when your credit report or title shows a different version of your name
- Real estate sales, when the deed was recorded under a former name
- After marriage or divorce, while some accounts still use your old name
- Bank, retirement or insurance paperwork, when records do not match exactly
- Estate and probate matters, when a decedent used several name versions
The company requesting the affidavit usually provides its own form. Use that form if you have one, since each lender or title company may want specific wording.
Why it has to be notarized
An affidavit is a sworn statement, so it is notarized with a jurat. That means you sign in front of the notary and swear or affirm that the contents are true. The notary checks your identification to confirm who you are. Without the notary’s certificate and seal, the receiving company has no independent proof that you are the person who signed, and the document will normally be rejected.
A notary verifies your identity and your oath. The notary cannot tell you which names to list or give legal advice about the document. If you are unsure what to include, ask the lender, title company or your attorney. You can also read what makes a notarized document invalid to avoid common mistakes.
How to get it notarized
- Fill in the names, but do not sign the affidavit before your appointment.
- Bring a current, unexpired government photo ID, such as a driver’s license, state ID or passport.
- If your ID shows a different name than the affidavit, bring supporting documents, such as a marriage certificate or court name-change order.
- Sign in front of the notary and take the oath. The notary completes the jurat, signs and stamps it.
- Return the original to the company that requested it.
Related services
Frequently asked questions
Can I sign the affidavit before I come in?
No. A jurat requires you to sign in front of the notary, so leave the signature lines blank until your appointment.
What if my ID is in a different name?
The notary must be able to identify you from your ID. Bring a document that links the names, such as a marriage certificate or name-change order, and call ahead if you are unsure.
Can a notary fill out the form for me?
No. Notaries cannot prepare legal documents or advise you on what to write. The requesting company or an attorney can help with the content.
How much does it cost?
Office notarization is $10 and mobile notary service is $70. See our pricing page for details.
