I received a signing order for a seller. The property is in Washington state. There is a form for an affidavit for state excise tax. Do they get notarized or just signed by the seller? — T. R., Colorado
An affidavit is essentially a written and sworn statement. As such, most, but not all, affidavits require notarization. The key way you’ll know is that affidavits that require notarization usually indicate that clearly by providing a notarial certificate and space for the Notary’s signature and seal. The notarial wording usually follows the person’s signature on the document.
If the document does not contain a notarial certificate and space for a Notary to affix their signature and seal, or if expectations are unclear, you should have a follow-up conversation with the contracting party to clarify if the affidavit must be notarized.
For more information, please see our article on how to notarize an affidavit.
Hotline answers are based on the laws in the state where the question originated and may not reflect the laws of other states. If in doubt, always refer to your own state statutes. – The Editors
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