An affidavit is your written statement of facts, sworn under oath before a notary. It’s used when a court, bank or agency needs facts confirmed but doesn’t need you there in person.
Free General Affidavit template
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Affidavit of ____
Re: ____
State of ____ County of ____
I, ____, residing at ____, being of legal age and first duly sworn, state as follows:
____
I have personal knowledge of the facts stated above, and they are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief. I understand that making a false statement in this affidavit may be punishable as perjury.
Affiant: __ Date: __
Jurat
Subscribed and sworn to (or affirmed) before me on __ by ____, proved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence to be the person who appeared before me.
Notary Public: __ My commission expires: __
This free template is general information, not legal advice, and may not suit your state or situation. Some documents must be signed before witnesses or a notary. For anything important, have a lawyer review it.
Common uses
- Residency or address verification for schools and agencies.
- Identity or name confirmation (one and the same person).
- Heirship or small estate claims (many states have their own forms).
- Supporting facts in a court case.
- Proof of relationship, support or a lost document.
Writing the facts
- Number each fact in a separate paragraph.
- Only state what you know personally, not what someone told you.
- Be specific: names, addresses, dates.
- Don’t sign until you’re in front of the notary, who will watch you sign and administer the oath.
Check for a required form
Courts and agencies often have their own affidavit forms (for example, a small estate affidavit in probate). If one exists, use it.
Frequently asked questions
Does an affidavit have to be notarized?
Yes: that’s what makes it sworn. Some courts accept an unsworn declaration under penalty of perjury instead.
What’s the difference between an affidavit and a declaration?
An affidavit is sworn before a notary; a declaration is signed under penalty of perjury without a notary, where allowed.
Questions from readers
Question about the General Affidavit? Ask it here. We answer common questions in general terms on this page. This is not legal advice.
