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Stuck Waiting for a Criminal Background Check/VSC? How an Affidavit of Police Record Check Can Help
When you are applying for a new job, a professional license, or a university program (like those at McMaster or other Ontario institutions), deadlines are everything. But what happens if your official police check is delayed, lost, or taking weeks to process? That is where an Affidavit with Regard to Police Record Check comes in. What is an Affidavit with Regard to Police Record Check? An Affidavit of Police Record Check is a formal, written statement that you swear or affirm
Notary Public
Jun 192 min read
Affidavits and Exhibits: What You Need to Know Before Your Notarization Appointment
Many people are familiar with affidavits, but fewer understand the role that exhibits play in sworn documents used for court proceedings and other legal matters. What Is an Exhibit? An exhibit is a document that is attached to and referenced within an affidavit. Common examples include contracts, photographs, emails, bank statements, identification documents, or other records that support the statements made in the affidavit. Each exhibit is labeled (Exhibit A, Exhibit B, Exh
Notary Public
Jun 152 min read
Proof of Life and Life Certificates for Pensions
How to Get a Proof of Life Certificate Notarized for Your Pension If you receive a pension from another country, you may be asked to provide proof that you are still living in order to continue receiving your benefits. While it may sound unusual, this is a common requirement for pension plans, government agencies, and insurance providers around the world. These documents are often called a Proof of Life Certificate, Life Certificate, Certificate of Existence, or Certificate o
Notary Public
Jun 132 min read
Affidavits Requesting That Criminal Charges Be Withdrawn in Ontario
When someone is involved in a criminal matter in Ontario, they may hear about the possibility of providing an affidavit and statement expressing their wishes regarding the continuation of a case. In certain situations, a complainant may choose to provide a sworn affidavit outlining relevant facts and indicating that they do not wish criminal charges to proceed. While an affidavit can be an important legal document, it is essential to understand its purpose, requirements, and
Notary Public
Jun 13 min read
Commissioning Sworn Declarations and Affidavits in Ontario
If you have ever been asked to sign a legal document in front of a Commissioner of Oaths or Notary Public, you may have wondered what the process involves and why it is necessary. In Ontario, sworn declarations and affidavits are commonly required for court matters, government applications, and other legal or administrative purposes. At Affordable Markham Notary Public, we regularly assist clients with commissioning affidavits, sworn declarations, and affidavits of service.
Notary Public
May 283 min read
Forwarding Mail for a Deceased Person in Canada - Statutory Declaration Form
When someone passes away, important mail such as bank statements, government correspondence, insurance documents, and legal notices may still continue arriving at their address. Canada Post offers a Mail Forwarding Service for Deceased Persons to help ensure that this mail is received and managed by the appropriate individual. Forwarding Mail for a Deceased Person in Canada If you are the executor of the estate, administrator, or next of kin, you may be able to request mail f
Notary Public
May 192 min read
What Is an Affidavit of Single Status?
An Affidavit of Single Status is a sworn legal document in which an individual declares that they are currently unmarried and legally free to marry. The affidavit is signed in front of a notary public or commissioner for taking affidavits. By signing the document, you are swearing or affirming that the information provided is true. Many foreign governments require this document before they will: issue a marriage licence, approve a marriage registration, or permit the marriage
Notary Public
May 143 min read
Notarize your Proof of Loss for Insurance Claims
If you have experienced the loss, theft, or damage of your belongings, filing an insurance claim can feel overwhelming. Understanding what is required, especially when it comes to a Proof of Loss form, can make the process much easier. What Is a Proof of Loss Form A Proof of Loss form is an official document required by your insurance company when you file a claim. It explains what was lost or damaged, how the loss occurred, and the value of the items involved. Submitting thi
Notary Public
May 42 min read
Statutory Declaration In Lieu of Guarantor: For Travel Document
What Is a Guarantor and Why Is One Required? A guarantor is someone who confirms your identity when you apply for certain government documents, including a travel document/passport. They play an important role by: Signing your application form Certifying your passport photo Being available to verify your identity if contacted with questions You’ll typically need a guarantor when applying for: Your first Canadian passport A child’s passport A replacement for a lost, stolen, or
Notary Public
May 12 min read
Sworn Statement for a Family Gift of a Used Vehicle in Ontario: What You Need to Know to Commission/Notarize
If you're transferring a vehicle to a family member in Ontario, you may be able to do so without paying retail sales tax. The key document that makes this possible is the Sworn Statement for a Family Gift of a Used Vehicle (Form 11573) which can be accessed here: https://forms.mgcs.gov.on.ca/en/dataset/013-1157 In this guide, we’ll walk you through what this form is, who qualifies, and how to complete the process properly. What Is a Sworn Statement for a Family Gift of a Used
Notary Public
Apr 233 min read
Medical Council of Canada Document Certification Requirements (True Copy Certification)
If you're applying through the Medical Council of Canada, ensuring your documents are properly certified is essential. If you’re searching for MCC document certification in Markham or a notary public near Markham, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. What Is Document Certification? Document certification means having an authorized official review your original document and confirm that a photocopy is a true copy of the original. For MCC applications:
Notary Public
Apr 222 min read
What to Do If Your Canada Savings Bond Is Lost, Stolen, or Destroyed (And When You Need a Notary)
If you’ve misplaced a paper Canada Savings Bond (CSB) or Canada Premium Bond (CPB), you’re not alone. The good news? Even though all CSBs and CPBs have now matured and stopped earning interest, you can still redeem them, even without the original certificate but you will need to follow the proper process. Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide, including when you’ll need a Notary Public or Commissioner of Oaths. Step 1: Report the Bond as Lost To begin, you’ll need to complete a
Notary Public
Apr 183 min read
Notarizing Statement of Need (SON) Applications for U.S. Medical Training in Ontario
If you are a Canadian medical graduate applying for postgraduate medical training in the United States, your Statement of Need (SON) application is a critical step in the process. One of the requirements is submitting properly certified true copies of your identity and citizenship documents. At Affordable Markham Notary Public, we help medical professionals complete this step quickly and correctly so that your application is not delayed. What Is the Statement of Need (SON) Pr
Notary Public
Apr 132 min read
Does a Will Need to Be Notarized in Ontario
One of the most common questions we receive at Affordable Markham Notary Public is whether you need to notarize your Will. The short answer? No. You do not need to notarize your will for it to be legally binding in Ontario. What Makes a Will Legally Valid in Ontario? For a standard typed (not handwritten) will to be valid in Ontario, it must meet the following requirements: It must be signed by the testator (the person making the will) The signing must take place in the prese
Notary Public
Apr 113 min read
How to Write an Invitation Letter for Visitors to Canada
If you’re inviting a friend or family member to visit Canada, you may need to provide a letter of invitation to support their visa application. At Affordable Markham Notary Public , we make it easy for you to get your invitation letter notarized or commissioned the same day. Book online or call us to get started! This guide covers: What an invitation letter is When it should be notarized The difference between a regular letter and an affidavit Step-by-step instructions with
Notary Public
Apr 63 min read
Understanding the Statutory Declaration for a Name Change (Ontario): What It Is and How to Properly Commission It
If you’re applying for a legal name change in Ontario, one of the key documents you may need is a statutory declaration. While the form itself may seem simple, many people are unsure about how to complete it correctly, especially when it comes to commissioning. This guide will walk you through what a statutory declaration is, why it matters, and how to get it properly commissioned so your application isn’t delayed. What Is a Statutory Declaration? A statutory declaration is a
Notary Public
Mar 312 min read
Unlocking Locked-In Pension Funds in Canada: What You Need to Know
Locked-in retirement funds are designed to provide income during retirement—but in certain situations, you may be able to access these funds earlier. If you're applying to unlock pension funds in Canada, you will often need sworn statements or consent forms, which must be notarized. In this guide, we explain what locked-in funds are, when notarization is required, and the available unlocking options under federal rules. What Are Locked-In Retirement Funds? Locked-in funds typ
Notary Public
Mar 273 min read
What is an Affidavit of Identity/Affidavit for One and the Same Person/Affidavit of Same Name?
If you’ve ever had your name appear differently across documents, you may be asked to provide an Affidavit of Identity, also known as an Affidavit for One and the Same Person or an Affidavit of Same Name. What Is an Affidavit? An Affidavit is a sworn legal document where you declare that different versions of your name refer to you and only you. This particular affidavit is used to confirm that multiple variations of names belong to the same individual . You sign this documen
Notary Public
Mar 232 min read
How Much Does a Notary Cost in Markham, Ontario?
If you're wondering how much a notary public or commissioner for oaths costs in Markham, you're not alone. This is one of the most common questions people ask before getting documents notarized. Fees in Ontario are not regulated by law, which means prices can vary wildly between law firms and notary offices. The short answer: Typically, Ontario notary fees range from $25 to $60 per seal . However, at Affordable Markham Notary Public , we believe in transparent, competitive pr
Notary Public
Mar 202 min read
Statement of Conscience or Religious Belief in Ontario: What It Is and How to Get It Commissioned
A Statement of Conscience or Religious Belief is a written declaration where an individual affirms that a personal decision is based on their sincerely held religious beliefs or moral convictions. In many situations, organizations, schools, employers, or government bodies may request this type of statement when someone is requesting an exemption from a requirement due to their beliefs. In Ontario, the Ministry of Education requires a completed "Statement of Conscience or Reli
Notary Public
Mar 132 min read
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