If you have ever been told to “get this document notarized” or to “swear this before a commissioner,” you might wonder what the difference is. In Ontario, both Notaries Public and Commissioners for Taking Affidavits can witness signatures, but their roles are not the same. Knowing which professional you need can save you time, money, and frustration.
What a Notary Public Does
A Notary Public is authorized to verify signatures, witness oaths, and certify that copies of original documents are true. This is especially important for documents that will be used outside Ontario or Canada.
Examples of documents a Notary Public can handle:
- Affidavits for court or immigration purposes
- Statutory declarations
- Certified true copies of passports, diplomas, or IDs
- Consent to travel letters for children
- Powers of attorney
Because Notaries have broader authority, their services are recognized internationally.
What a Commissioner for Taking Affidavits Does
A Commissioner can witness the swearing or affirming of affidavits and statutory declarations, but cannot certify copies of documents. Their authority is limited to Ontario and certain types of documents.
Examples of documents a Commissioner can handle:
- Sworn statements for small claims court
- Statutory declarations for Ontario government forms
- Name change applications
- Certain family law documents like Form 35.1 parenting affidavits
If you only need to swear or affirm a statement and no certification is required, a Commissioner is often the simpler and more affordable choice.
Key Differences That Matter
| Aspect | Notary Public | Commissioner |
|---|---|---|
| Can certify copies? | Yes | No |
| Recognized outside Ontario? | Yes | No |
| Cost | Usually higher | Usually lower |
| Typical use | Immigration, travel letters, powers of attorney, international documents | Local affidavits, provincial forms, simple declarations |
Cost and Availability in Nepean
Notaries typically charge more than Commissioners because their services carry international recognition and additional responsibility. Commissioners can often be found at city offices, law firms, and even some MPP offices for free or low cost.
Final Thoughts
The choice between a Notary and a Commissioner depends on your document and where it will be used. If it needs to be certified as a true copy or used outside Ontario, you will need a Notary Public. If you simply need to swear or affirm a statement for a local matter, a Commissioner is usually enough. Understanding the difference helps you avoid delays and extra costs.
