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Affirmation

Also called: solemn affirmation

A solemn, non-religious promise to tell the truth, administered by a notary in place of an oath. Under Pennsylvania law, an affirmation has the same legal force as an oath, including exposure to perjury charges for falsehood.

RULONA treats “oath or affirmation” as a single notarial act (§ 302, § 305(b)) — the signer chooses the form, and the notary must honor the choice. A typical affirmation: “Do you solemnly affirm, under penalties of perjury, that the statements in this document are true and correct?” Never pressure a signer to swear on a religious text; offering the affirmation alternative is both respectful and legally required.

Source: 57 Pa.C.S. § 305(b); 42 Pa.C.S. § 5901 (oath or affirmation) — link

See also: oath, jurat, affiant

This page is educational information, not legal advice. Pennsylvania notary law changes; always verify against the current version of RULONA (57 Pa.C.S. §§ 301–331) and 4 Pa. Code at pa.gov. Consult a PA-licensed attorney for specific situations.