Affidavits Explained: Types, Uses, and How to Get One Notarized

If you've ever dealt with a court case, a government agency, an insurance claim, or a real estate transaction, you've likely encountered an affidavit. They're one of the most common documents that require notarization — and one of the most misunderstood.

What Is an Affidavit?

An affidavit is a written statement of facts that the signer swears or affirms to be true under penalty of perjury. By signing an affidavit before a notary, the signer is making a legally binding declaration — one that can have serious consequences if it turns out to be false.

The notary's role in an affidavit is to administer the oath or affirmation and witness the signature. This is called a jurat — the notary certifies that the signer appeared before them, was sworn in, and signed the document.

Common Types of Affidavits in Florida

Affidavit of Residency

Used to prove that a person lives at a particular address. Commonly required by schools, government agencies, and financial institutions.

Affidavit of Heirship

Used when someone dies without a will (intestate) and family members need to establish their relationship to the deceased for purposes of inheriting property. Commonly used in real estate transactions involving inherited property.

Affidavit of Identity

Used to confirm that two names refer to the same person — for example, if your name appears differently on different documents (maiden name vs. married name, or a name with and without a middle initial).

Affidavit of Title (Seller's Affidavit)

Used in real estate transactions to confirm that the seller has clear title to the property, that there are no undisclosed liens or encumbrances, and that no work has been done on the property that could give rise to a mechanic's lien.

Financial Affidavit

Used in family law proceedings — divorce, child support, alimony — to disclose income, assets, and liabilities. Florida courts require financial affidavits in most family law cases.

Affidavit of Support

Used in immigration proceedings to demonstrate that a U.S. citizen or permanent resident can financially support a family member seeking a visa or green card.

General Affidavit

A catch-all document used when someone needs to make a sworn statement about a specific set of facts that doesn't fit neatly into one of the specialized categories above.

How to Get an Affidavit Notarized in Florida

The process is straightforward:

1. Draft the affidavit. The document should clearly state the facts being sworn to, written in first person. Many affidavits use standard templates — an attorney can help draft one for complex situations.

2. Do not sign it yet. The notary must administer the oath and witness the signature. Signing in advance defeats the purpose.

3. Appear before a notary with valid ID. The notary will verify your identity, administer the oath, watch you sign, and apply their seal.

4. Receive the notarized document. The notary's seal and signature certify that the oath was properly administered.

What Happens If an Affidavit Contains False Information?

Signing a false affidavit is perjury — a serious crime in Florida. Under Florida Statute §837.012, making a false statement under oath is a first-degree misdemeanor. If the false statement is made in an official proceeding, it can be a third-degree felony.

This is why notarization matters: it creates a formal, documented record that the signer swore to the truth of the statements.

We Come to You

Sterling Mobile Notary - Riverview, FL notarizes affidavits and sworn statements throughout Riverview, FL and surrounding areas. We come to your home, office, or any convenient location. Notarizations start at $49 for the first document.

Book your appointment today — we're available Monday through Friday, 8:00am–6:00pm.