A person uses an Affidavit of Identity to verify they are who they claim to be. This document can be essential in proving your identity in some instances, such as identity theft.

Table of Contents

• What is an Affidavit of Identity?
• When to Use an Affidavit of Identity
• How To Fill Out an Affidavit of Identity
• What Should be Included in an Affidavit of Identity?
• Acceptable Forms of Government Identification
• Credible Witness Verification
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Do I fill the Affidavit of Identity out before going to a notary?
• Do Affidavits of Identity expire?
• Can I use a credible witness to vouch for me if I’ve lost my driver’s license?
• Why does an Affidavit of Identity include personal information, such as my date of birth, address, and social security number?
• Affidavit of Identity Sample

What is an Affidavit of Identity?

An Affidavit of Identity is a legal document that is used to formally confirm or verify a person's identity. It is typically sworn under oath and signed in the presence of a notary public or another authorized official. The purpose of an Affidavit of Identity is to provide a sworn statement that attests to the individual's identity, often in situations where identity needs to be established or confirmed for legal, financial, or administrative purposes.

Common situations where an Affidavit of Identity might be used include:

1. Name Change: When an individual legally changes their name, they may need to provide an Affidavit of Identity to confirm their previous and new names.

2. Lost or Stolen Identification: If an individual has lost their identification documents (e.g., driver's license, passport) or had them stolen, they may use an Affidavit of Identity to confirm their identity when applying for replacements.

3. Fraudulent Activity: In cases of identity theft or other fraudulent activities, an Affidavit of Identity can be used to attest to the true identity of the victim.

4. Verification for Government Agencies: Government agencies may require individuals to provide an Affidavit of Identity to verify their identity when applying for benefits, licenses, or permits.

5. Financial Transactions: Financial institutions or legal entities may request an Affidavit of Identity to confirm an individual's identity when opening accounts, conducting financial transactions, or dealing with estates and inheritances.

6. Legal Proceedings: In legal proceedings, parties may use an Affidavit of Identity to confirm the identity of witnesses or individuals who are involved in the case.

The content of an Affidavit of Identity typically includes:

• The affiant's full legal name.

• The affiant's date of birth.

• A statement affirming the affiant's identity.

• A statement affirming that the affiant is signing the affidavit voluntarily and under oath.

• The affiant's signature must be notarized for legal validity.

• The notary public's information, including their name, commission expiration date, and seal.

It's important to note that the specific requirements and format of an Affidavit of Identity may vary by jurisdiction and the purpose for which it is being used. When using an Affidavit of Identity, individuals should consult with legal professionals or follow the guidelines and requirements set by the relevant authorities to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations.

When to Use an Affidavit of Identity

An Affidavit of Identity should be used in various situations where it is necessary to formally confirm or verify an individual's identity. Here are common scenarios and situations when you should consider using an Affidavit of Identity:

1. Name Change: When an individual legally changes their name, they may need to use an Affidavit of Identity to confirm their previous and new names. This is often required when updating identification documents and records, such as driver's licenses, passports, and social security cards.

2. Lost or Stolen Identification: If an individual's identification documents (e.g., driver's license, passport) are lost or stolen, they may need to provide an Affidavit of Identity to confirm their identity when applying for replacements or addressing potential identity theft issues.

3. Identity Theft: In cases of identity theft or fraudulent use of personal information, victims may use an Affidavit of Identity to formally attest to their true identity and report the fraudulent activity to relevant authorities.

4. Verification for Government Agencies: Government agencies, such as the Social Security Administration or Department of Motor Vehicles, may require individuals to provide an Affidavit of Identity to verify their identity when applying for benefits, licenses, permits, or other government-related services.

5. Financial Transactions: Financial institutions, including banks and credit unions, may request an Affidavit of Identity to confirm an individual's identity when opening new accounts, conducting financial transactions, or dealing with issues related to estates, inheritances, or beneficiaries.

6. Legal Proceedings: In legal proceedings, parties may use an Affidavit of Identity to confirm the identity of witnesses or individuals involved in a case. This helps ensure that the correct individuals are providing testimony or participating in legal matters.

7. Medical Situations: In some healthcare situations, individuals may need to provide an Affidavit of Identity to confirm their identity when dealing with medical records, consent forms, or medical treatment decisions.

8. Notarization and Acknowledgment: An Affidavit of Identity can serve as a legal document that includes a sworn statement and acknowledgment of the individual's identity, often required in various legal and administrative processes.

9. Other Administrative Purposes: There may be various administrative or official purposes where confirming identity is necessary, such as applying for a marriage license, obtaining a professional license, or addressing immigration-related matters.

It's important to note that the specific requirements for an Affidavit of Identity may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the purpose for which it is being used. Individuals should consult with legal professionals, and government agencies, or follow local regulations and guidelines to ensure that they use the correct format and meet the requirements when creating and using an Affidavit of Identity.

How To Fill Out an Affidavit of Identity

Filling out an Affidavit of Identity involves providing accurate information about the affiant (the person making the affidavit) and their identity. The exact format and requirements may vary by jurisdiction and the specific purpose for which the affidavit is being used. However, here are general steps to fill out an Affidavit of Identity:

Step 1: Obtain the Appropriate Form:

• Obtain the official Affidavit of Identity form required for your jurisdiction or the specific organization or entity requesting it. These forms may be available from government agencies, legal professionals, or online resources.

Step 2: Review the Instructions:

• Carefully read any instructions or guidelines provided with the form to ensure that you understand the specific requirements and how to properly complete the affidavit.

Step 3: Header Information:

• Fill in the header section of the form, which typically includes the name of the court or jurisdiction, case number (if applicable), and the title "Affidavit of Identity."

Step 4: Affiant Information:

• Provide information about the affiant who is making the sworn statement. Include the following:
  • The full legal name of the affiant.
  • Date of birth.
  • Address and contact details.
  • Any other requested personal information.

Step 5: Statement of Identity:

• In the body of the affidavit, include a statement affirming the affiant's identity. This statement should be clear and concise, indicating that the affiant is who they claim to be.

Step 6: Sworn Statement:

• Include a sworn statement or affirmation by the affiant confirming that the information provided in the affidavit is true and accurate to the best of their knowledge and belief.

Step 7: Signatures:

• The affiant must sign the affidavit in the presence of a notary public or another authorized official. Ensure that the signature is dated.

Step 8: Notarization:

• The affidavit must be notarized for legal validity. A notary public will verify the affiant's identity, witness the affiant's signature, and apply their seal.

Step 9: Notary Public Information:

• Include a section for the notary public's information, including their name, commission expiration date, and seal.

Step 10: Copies and Submission:

• Make copies of the completed and notarized Affidavit of Identity for your records and any entities or organizations that require it. Submit the affidavit to the relevant authorities or organizations based on its intended use, following their specific procedures and requirements.

Step 11: Follow Any Additional Requirements:

• Depending on the purpose of the affidavit and local regulations, you may need to follow additional requirements or include specific details as requested by the entity or organization receiving the affidavit.

Always consult with legal professionals or follow the specific requirements of your jurisdiction and the requesting entity when creating and using an Affidavit of Identity to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations.

What Should be Included in an Affidavit of Identity?

An Affidavit of Identity is a legal document used to confirm or verify an individual's identity for various purposes. While the specific requirements for an Affidavit of Identity may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the entity requesting it, here are common elements that should be included:

1. Title: The document should be titled as an "Affidavit of Identity" to indicate its purpose.

2. Jurisdiction: Identify the jurisdiction or state where the affidavit is being executed, as this can affect the legal requirements and format.

3. Affiant Information: Provide detailed information about the affiant (the person making the affidavit), including:
   • Full legal name.
   • Date of birth.
   • Address (current residence).
   • Contact details (phone number, email address, if required).

4. Statement of Identity: In the body of the affidavit, include a statement where the affiant affirms their identity. This statement should be clear and concise, indicating that the affiant is who they claim to be.

5. Sworn Statement: Include a sworn statement or affirmation by the affiant confirming that the information provided in the affidavit is true and accurate to the best of their knowledge and belief. This is often followed by the phrase "under penalty of perjury."

6. Identification Documents: If required, specify the types of identification documents that the affiant is providing as proof of identity. List these documents and provide any relevant details (e.g., driver's license number, passport number).

7. Purpose for Verification: Clearly state the purpose for which the identity verification is needed. Explain why the affiant is providing this affidavit and how it will be used.

8. Signature: The affiant must sign the affidavit in the presence of a notary public or another authorized official. The signature should be dated.

9. Notary Public Information: Include a section for the notary public's information, including their name, commission expiration date, and notary seal. The notary public will verify the affiant's identity and witness the signature.

10. Witnesses (if required): Some jurisdictions or entities may require witnesses in addition to the notary public. If witnesses are needed, provide spaces for their signatures and relevant information.

11. Additional Requirements: Depending on the purpose of the affidavit and local regulations, there may be additional requirements or specific information that needs to be included. Follow any additional guidelines provided by the requesting entity.

12. Copies and Submission: Make copies of the completed and notarized Affidavit of Identity for your records and submission to the entity or organization requesting it. Submit the affidavit as required by the entity or follow their specific procedures.

It's important to note that the content and format of an Affidavit of Identity can vary, so it's essential to consult with legal professionals, government agencies, or the requesting entity to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations and to address any specific requirements for your situation.

Acceptable Forms of Government Identification

Acceptable forms of government identification may vary by country and jurisdiction, but generally include official documents issued by government authorities that confirm a person's identity. These documents are typically used for various purposes, including travel, accessing government services, and verifying identity in financial transactions. Common forms of government identification include:

1. Passport: A passport is an internationally recognized travel document issued by a government. It contains the holder's photo, name, date of birth, nationality, and a unique passport number.

2. Driver's License: A driver's license is an identification card issued by the government's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency. It confirms a person's identity, date of birth, address, and driving privileges.

3. National ID Card: Some countries issue national identification cards (ID cards) that serve as official proof of identity. These cards typically include a photo, name, date of birth, and a unique ID number

4. Social Security Card: In the United States, a Social Security card is issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and contains a person's name and Social Security Number (SSN).

5. Government-Issued ID Cards: Many countries issue government-issued ID cards, which may serve as proof of identity for citizens. These cards vary in design and information included but often contain a photo, name, and unique identification number.

6. Military ID: Military personnel are often issued military identification cards, which confirm their identity and affiliation with a branch of the armed forces.

7. Residence Permit or Visa: Non-citizens may have government-issued residence permits or visas that grant them legal status in a country. These documents typically include personal information and the terms of the visa.

8. Birth Certificate: While not typically used as primary identification, a birth certificate is an official document issued by a government agency that confirms a person's birth details, including name and date of birth. It may be used in combination with other forms of ID.

9. Voter ID Card: In some countries, voter identification cards are issued to eligible voters and serve as proof of identity when voting in elections.

10. Immigration Documents: Depending on the country, various immigration-related documents, such as green cards, refugee identification cards, or asylum seeker documentation, may be considered acceptable government identification.

It's important to note that the acceptability of these forms of identification may vary by the specific requirements of the entity or organization requesting identification. Additionally, some transactions or services may require multiple forms of identification or supplementary documents, such as utility bills or bank statements, to confirm an individual's identity.

When in doubt about which forms of government identification are acceptable for a particular purpose, it is advisable to check with the relevant government agency or the organization requesting the identification for specific guidance and requirements.

Credible Witness Verification

Credible witness verification is a process used in legal and administrative contexts to confirm the identity of an individual when they do not have acceptable government-issued identification or documentation. In such cases, a credible witness, who is a person with known and established identity, vouches for the identity of the individual in question. Credible witness verification is typically conducted in the presence of a notary public or another authorized official.

Here's how credible witness verification generally works:

1. Identification Requirement: A person who lacks acceptable government-issued identification seeks to verify their identity for a specific purpose, such as signing a legal document, opening a bank account, or completing a transaction.

2. Credible Witness: A credible witness is someone who is personally known to the notary public or authorized official and can confirm the identity of the individual seeking verification. The credible witness should have reliable knowledge of the individual's identity.

3. Appearance: The individual seeking verification must appear in person before the notary public or authorized official, along with the credible witness.

4. Credible Witness Statement: The credible witness provides a sworn statement or affidavit in which they confirm the identity of the individual. This statement typically includes details about how they know the individual and how they can confirm the person's identity.

5. Notary Public's Role: The notary public or authorized official administers an oath or affirmation to the credible witness, who then provides their statement under penalty of perjury.

6. Verification Process: The notary public or authorized official reviews the credible witness's statement and may ask clarifying questions to ensure the information provided is accurate and reliable.

7. Verification of Individual's Identity: Once the notary or official is satisfied that the credible witness's statement is credible and accurate, they proceed to verify the identity of the individual seeking verification. This may involve checking the individual's appearance against any available photographs, descriptions, or other identifying information.

8. Affirmation by Individual: The individual seeking verification may be required to affirm under oath that the information provided is true and that they are the person they claim to be.

9. Notarization: If the notary public or authorized official is confident in the verification process and believes that the credible witness is trustworthy, they notarize or authenticate the document or transaction as required by law.

Credible witness verification is a valuable mechanism that allows individuals without standard identification documents to have their identity confirmed by someone with a known and established identity. However, the acceptability and requirements for credible witness verification can vary by jurisdiction and the specific purpose for which it is being used. Individuals seeking this type of verification should consult with the relevant notary public or authorized official to understand the local rules and requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I fill the Affidavit of Identity out before going to a notary?

No. A notary expects to witness your signature. Consequently, while you can fill out most of the affidavit beforehand, you shouldn’t sign it until you are in the notary’s presence.

Do Affidavits of Identity expire?

No. Affidavits of identity do not have an expiration date. However, because different circumstances may call for slightly different information in the body of the affidavit, you may create more than one of these documents over the years.

Can I use a credible witness to vouch for me if I’ve lost my driver’s license?

No. The absence of any acceptable form of government identification is a rare circumstance. It is not enough for someone to lose their driver’s license or leave their passport in another purse. Instead, the person must indeed not have access to government identification.

For example, if your great-grandma was born in a farmhouse in Wisconsin, and there was no record of her birth, she may be unable to obtain other forms of government-issued identification. On the other hand, if you lost your driver’s license, you can (and should) take the steps necessary to issue a new driver’s license.

Why does an Affidavit of Identity include personal information, such as my date of birth, address, and social security number?

Affidavit of Identity serves the purpose of verifying signatures and authenticating your identity. Including personal information known to the signer helps establish identity. Dates of birth, addresses, and the last four digits of a social security number can separate you from someone with a similar name.

Affidavit of Identity Sample