What is an acknowledgment?

Short answer

An acknowledgment is a notarial act in which the signer personally appears, is identified, and declares to the notary that they signed the document willingly for the purposes stated in it.

Full explanation

Acknowledgments are the most common notarial act and are typical for deeds, powers of attorney, and other documents that get recorded. Critically, in most states the signer does not have to sign in front of the notary for an acknowledgment — they must appear before the notary and acknowledge that the signature is theirs. The notary then completes an acknowledgment certificate that states the venue, the date, the name of the person who appeared, and how they were identified.

Example

A signer arrives with a deed already signed at home. For an acknowledgment, the notary confirms identity, the signer acknowledges the signature as their own and freely made, and the notary completes the certificate.

Common mistake to avoid

An acknowledgment does not attest that the document is true, legal, or a good idea — only that the person appeared, was identified, and acknowledged the signature.

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