Affordable Markham Notary Public

06/01/2026

https://www.affordablemarkhamnotary.com/post/affidavits-requesting-that-criminal-charges-be-withdrawn-in-ontario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 an...

05/28/2026

https://www.affordablemarkhamnotary.com/post/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.

One of the most common documents we commission in our office is the Affidavit of Service.

What Is an Affidavit of Service in Ontario?
An Affidavit of Service is a sworn legal document that confirms that court documents were properly delivered to another party.

The affidavit typically confirms:

-Who was served

-When they were served

-Where the service took place

-How the documents were delivered

-What documents were served

Ontario courts rely on this affidavit as proof that documents were properly served. Without a completed Affidavit of Service, court filings may be considered incomplete.

Who Can Complete an Affidavit of Service?
Only the individual who actually served the documents can complete and swear the Affidavit of Service. The person signing the affidavit is known as the “affiant.”

The affidavit must then be sworn or affirmed before an authorized official.

For an Affidavit of Service to be legally valid in Ontario, several requirements must be met:

-The affiant must prepare and sign the affidavit

-The affiant must swear or affirm that the contents are true

-The affidavit must be witnessed by an authorized official

-The official must verify the affiant’s identity

-The official must confirm that the affiant understands the contents of the document

Authorized officials who can administer the oath or affirmation include:
-Notary Publics

-Commissioners of Oaths

-Lawyers

-Justices of the Peace

Need an Affidavit or Sworn Declaration Commissioned in Markham? If you need assistance with an Affidavit of Service, sworn declaration, or other notarized documents, we are here to help.

Contact us today to book an appointment and ensure your documents are completed correctly and professionally.: https://www.affordablemarkhamnotary.com/book-online

05/19/2026

https://www.affordablemarkhamnotary.com/post/forwarding-mail-for-a-deceased-person-in-canada-statutory-declaration-form

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 forwarding through Canada Post on behalf of the deceased.

One of the documents commonly required is the:

Canada Post Statutory Declaration Form Regarding Proof of Authority (40-076-696)

This form confirms that you have the legal authority to redirect the deceased person’s mail.

Why Is Mail Forwarding Important?
Mail forwarding helps ensure that important documents do not get missed after someone passes away. This may include:

Bank and financial correspondence

CRA notices

Insurance information

Pension or benefit documents

Legal correspondence

Utility and account statements

Redirecting mail can help executors and family members properly manage the estate and avoid missing time-sensitive information.

Documents You May Need
To request mail forwarding for a deceased person, Canada Post may require:

Death Certificate

Medical Examiner’s Certificate

Funeral Director’s Certificate

Cremation Certificate or similar authority document

Proof of appointment as executor, administrator, or legal representative

Completing the Statutory Declaration Form
The form generally requires you to:

Provide the deceased person’s information

Provide your own name and address

Confirm the address where the deceased received mail

Declare your authority to redirect the mail

The form must be signed in front of a Commissioner for Oaths, Notary Public, or lawyer.

If you need your Statutory Declaration commissioned or notarized, Affordable Markham Notary Public can help with quick and professional service: https://www.affordablemarkhamnotary.com/booking-calendar/statutory-declaration?referral=service_list_widget

05/14/2026

https://www.affordablemarkhamnotary.com/post/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 ceremony to proceed.

Why Do Foreign Countries Require This Document?

Unlike some countries, Canada does not maintain a centralized public registry confirming whether a person is single or legally eligible to marry. Because of this, foreign governments often require Canadians to provide sworn documentation confirming their marital status.

The purpose of the affidavit is to confirm that there are no legal obstacles preventing the marriage.

Does Canada Issue a Certificate of Non-Impediment to Marriage?

This is one of the most common points of confusion for Canadians getting married overseas.

Some countries request a document called a “Certificate of Non-Impediment to Marriage,” which is issued by certain governments to confirm that a person is free to marry.

However, Canada does not issue Certificates of Non-Impediment.

Instead, Canada issues a document called a “Statement in Lieu of Certificate of Non-Impediment to Marriage Abroad.”

This document simply confirms that Canada does not issue such certificates. It does not confirm your marital status or state whether you are legally eligible to marry.

Because of this, many foreign authorities will additionally request an Affidavit of Single Status sworn before a notary public or commissioner.

What Information Is Typically Included?

A Single Status Affidavit will usually include:

- your full legal name,

-date of birth,

-address,

-citizenship,

-current marital status,

-and a statement confirming that there is no legal impediment to your marriage.

If you were previously married, you may also need to provide supporting documents such as:

-a divorce certificate,

-judgment of divorce,

-separation documentation,

-or a spouse’s death certificate.

Requirements vary depending on the destination country and local marriage authority.

Countries That Commonly Request Single Status Affidavits

This type of document is frequently requested for marriages taking place in:

-Mexico

-Dominican Republic

-Cuba

-Italy

-Portugal

-Philippines

-Thailand

-Vietnam

-India

-Colombia

-Brazil

It is always best to confirm the exact requirements with the local marriage office, embassy, consulate, or wedding coordinator before your appointment.

Do I Need a Notary Public or Commissioner?

Foreign authorities typically require the affidavit to be sworn before a notary public or commissioner for taking affidavits.

The notary or commissioner:

-verifies your identity,

-witnesses your signature,

-and administers the oath or affirmation.

It is important to understand that the notary does not independently investigate or verify your marital status. You are personally swearing or affirming that the contents of the affidavit are true.

Before your appointment, we recommend confirming all requirements directly with the country where the marriage will take place to ensure the documents meet their specific standards.

Book online today to complete your affidavit: https://www.affordablemarkhamnotary.com/booking-calendar/affidavit-commissioning

05/04/2026

https://www.affordablemarkhamnotary.com/post/notarize-your-proof-of-loss-for-insurance-claims

Notarize your Proof of Loss for Insurance Claims
Writer: Notary Public
Notary Public
a few seconds ago
2 min read

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 this form formally starts the claims process. Without it, your insurer cannot review your claim or issue compensation, which can lead to delays.

What To Do After a Loss
If your property has been lost, stolen, or damaged, contact your insurance provider as soon as possible. They will guide you through the next steps and provide the correct Proof of Loss form.

It is also important to take photos or videos of the damage if it is safe to do so and make detailed notes about what happened. Keep any supporting documents you have.

Organizations like the Insurance Bureau of Canada recommend documenting everything early to support your claim.

What Information Is Required
While each insurance company has its own version of the form, you will usually need to provide details about how the loss or damage occurred, a list of damaged or missing items, the estimated value or replacement cost of each item, and supporting documents such as receipts or photos.

The more detailed and organized your information, the easier it is for your insurer to process your claim.

How to Prepare for Future Claims
Planning ahead can save you time and stress later. It is a good idea to keep receipts for major purchases, create a home inventory with photos, and store records digitally for easy access.

These steps can make a significant difference if you ever need to file a claim.

Does a Proof of Loss Form Need to Be Notarized
In many cases, yes. Insurance companies often require the Proof of Loss form to be commissioned. This means you must sign the document in front of a Notary Public or Commissioner of Oaths and swear or affirm that the information provided is true.

You will need valid photo identification at the time of signing.

How a Notary Public Can Help
A notary ensures your document is properly signed and commissioned so it meets your insurance company’s requirements. This helps prevent delays and keeps your claim moving forward.

If you need your Proof of Loss form commissioned quickly and professionally, I am here to help.

Book your appointment today and get your documents completed with confidence.

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 FormA Proof of Loss form is an official d...

05/01/2026

https://www.affordablemarkhamnotary.com/post/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 expired passport

To qualify, a guarantor must be a Canadian citizen with a valid passport who has known you personally for at least two years. While that may sound simple, many people find it surprisingly difficult to meet these requirements, especially if you are new to Canada or have a limited network.

What can you do if you do not have a guarantor?

There is an alternative available if you do not have a guarantor available to sign your document in Canada. If you cannot find someone who qualifies, you can complete a Statutory Declaration in Lieu of Guarantor (Form PPTC 132):

The form allows an applicant to declare their identity and explain why they don’t have a guarantor

It must be sworn in front of a notary public or commissioner of oaths

It is accepted as an alternative, but applications using it may be subject to additional review or verification

It does not guarantee the same processing speed or simplicity as having a guarantor

Keep in mind that applications submitted with this form may be subject to additional review, so processing times can be longer.

As passport forms are periodically updated, it is always a good idea to confirm you are using the most current version from Passport Canada.

In addition to signing the declaration, the official/notary will also need to certify, sign and date the back of one photo with "This is exhibit A in support of the applicant's statutory declaration". If you are also submitting additional supporting identity documents, these will need to be signed and dated by the official/notary as well.

Who Can Be Your References?
Even without a guarantor, you’ll still need to provide two references on your application.

The requirements for references are more flexible:

They must be at least 18 years old

They must have known you for at least two years

They cannot be family members or live in your household

Your references can be friends, coworkers, neighbours, or acquaintances who can confirm your identity if contacted. Unlike guarantors, they do not need to sign your application.

Need Help getting Your Statutory Declaration Commissioned/Notarized?
At Affordable Markham Notary Public, we make the process simple, fast, and stress-free. Whether you’re applying for your first passport or replacing a lost one, we can help with your Statutory Declaration in Lieu of Guarantor.

We offer:

Same-day appointments

Walk-in availability

Affordable, transparent pricing

Friendly, professional service

Don't delay and book an appointment today: https://www.affordablemarkhamnotary.com/booking-calendar/statutory-declaration?referral=service_list_widget

04/23/2026

https://www.affordablemarkhamnotary.com/post/sworn-statement-for-a-family-gift-of-a-used-vehicle-in-ontario-what-you-need-to-know

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 Vehicle?
A Sworn Statement for a Family Gift of a Used Vehicle is a legal document used in Ontario to confirm that a vehicle is being gifted, not sold, between eligible family members.

When properly completed and commissioned, this form allows the recipient to receive the vehicle tax-free, avoiding retail sales tax that would normally apply to vehicle transfers.

Both the person giving the vehicle (the donor) and the person receiving it (the recipient) must sign the document in front of a notary public or commissioner of oaths.

What Information Is Required?
To complete the form correctly, you’ll need to include:

Full name and address of the donor

Full name and address of the recipient

Vehicle details (year, make, and model)

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

The date the vehicle is gifted or transferred

Accuracy is important—errors can delay your transfer or affect your tax exemption.

Who Qualifies as “Family” for Tax-Free Transfers?
Ontario allows tax-free vehicle transfers between specific family members, including:

Parents and step-parents

Children and step-children

Grandparents and grandchildren (including step-relations)

Spouses, including common-law partners

Siblings (including half-siblings and adopted siblings)

In-laws (such as mother-in-law, father-in-law, son-in-law, daughter-in-law)

Keep in mind: Only one tax-exempt transfer of the same vehicle is permitted within a 12-month period.

How to Transfer Ownership at ServiceOntario
Before visiting a ServiceOntario centre, make sure you have:

A completed and commissioned Sworn Statement for a Family Gift of a Used Vehicle

The vehicle ownership permit (signed on the back)

Valid Ontario vehicle insurance

Your Ontario driver’s licence

A plate transfer declaration (if applicable)

A Safety Standards Certificate (unless exempt)

Having everything ready will help ensure a smooth and quick transfer process.

Transfers Between Spouses or Former Spouses
If a vehicle is transferred as part of a separation or divorce settlement, it may also qualify for a tax exemption.

In these cases, you’ll need supporting documentation, such as:

A separation agreement

A divorce order or court document

A sworn statement confirming the transfer

These documents must be presented when registering the vehicle.

Why Commissioning Is Required
For the sworn statement to be legally valid, it must be commissioned. This means:

You sign the document in front of an authorized official

You swear or affirm that the information is true

The official verifies your identity and witnesses your signature

This step helps prevent fraud and ensures the integrity of the tax exemption process.

Important: Be Truthful
Providing false or misleading information in a sworn statement is a serious matter. It can lead to legal penalties, including fines or other consequences.

Always ensure that the transfer genuinely qualifies as a family gift.

Need Help Commissioning Your Sworn Statement?
If you need your Sworn Statement for a Family Gift of a Used Vehicle commissioned quickly and affordably, we’re here to help.

We offer:

Fast, same-day appointments

Convenient online commissioning

Affordable, transparent pricing

Book your appointment today and complete your vehicle transfer here: https://www.affordablemarkhamnotary.com/book-online

04/22/2026

https://www.affordablemarkhamnotary.com/post/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.

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:

You must present original documents

The certifying official must make and certify the copy

You cannot certify your own documents

This is especially important for applicants looking for passport certification in Markham or identity document certification services.

Key Requirements for MCC Certification

To avoid delays, make sure:

Certification is done in person (not online or virtual)

The official provides services in English or French

They use an official stamp or seal

All required elements are included on every page

⚠️ Improper certification is one of the most common reasons applications are delayed.

Who Can Certify Documents in Canada?

The MCC accepts certification from authorized professionals, including:

Notary Public

Lawyers (members of a bar association)

Commissioners of oaths

Police officers (with badge number and location)

Mayors

If you're looking for a notary public in Markham or affordable document certification near you, we can assist with walk-in availability, usually completed within 5-10 minutes!

What Must Be Included on Each Certified Page?

Each page must contain:

Certifier’s name and title

Contact information (address, phone, email)

Official stamp or seal

Certification statement:

“I certify this to be a true copy of the original”

Signature and date

Missing any of these can result in rejection.

Affordable MCC Document Certification in Markham

If you need MCC document certification, passport copies certified, or a notary public in Markham, we’re here to help.

At Affordable Markham Notary, we provide:

Fast and accurate document certification services

Proper MCC-compliant wording and formatting

Affordable pricing with no surprises

Convenient appointments in Markham

Book your appointment here: https://www.affordablemarkhamnotary.com/booking-calendar/certified-true-copy?referral=service_list_widget or simply walk-in anytime Monday to Friday from 9:30AM to 6:30PM! We are also open on Saturdays (an appointment is required).

04/17/2026

https://www.affordablemarkhamnotary.com/post/what-is-a-certified-true-copy-how-do-i-notarize-an-id-document

When dealing with important documents, you may be asked to provide a certified true copy instead of the original. But what does that mean in Ontario, and who is authorized to certify documents?

Understanding these basics can help you avoid delays when dealing with government offices, schools, employers, and foreign authorities.
What Is a Certified True Copy?

A certified true copy is a photocopy of an original document that has been compared to the original and confirmed to be a true and complete reproduction. The person certifying the copy adds a statement, signature, and official stamp or seal confirming that the copy matches the original document.

Certified true copies are commonly required when:

the original document must be kept by the owner, or

the receiving organization does not want to risk losing the original.

In Ontario, certified true copies are typically prepared by a notary public or a lawyer, both of whom are authorized to certify copies of documents.

Why Certified True Copies Are Important

Certified true copies serve several important purposes:

Protection of originals: You can keep valuable documents such as passports or diplomas safely in your possession.

Acceptance by institutions: Many government bodies, schools, financial institutions, and foreign authorities require certified copies rather than regular photocopies.

Proof of authenticity: Certification provides assurance that the document has not been altered or falsified.

For example, if you are applying for work or school outside Canada, the organization may require certified copies of your academic credentials instead of the original certificates.

What Is the Role of a Notary Public in Certifying Documents?

In Ontario, a notary public is authorized to certify that a copy of a document is a true copy of the original. When certifying a document, the notary will:

examine the original document,

compare it with the photocopy,

confirm that the copy is complete and accurate, and

apply their signature and official notarial seal to the copy along with a certification statement.

Keep in mind, the notary does not verify whether the contents of the document are true, only that the copy is a true reproduction of the original shown.

Types of Documents That Can Be Certified by a Notary Public

In Ontario, notaries commonly certify copies of the following types of documents:

Personal Identification
Passports

Driver’s licences

Permanent resident cards

Birth certificates

These are often needed for immigration, visa, or overseas applications.

Educational Documents
Diplomas and degrees

Academic transcripts

Certificates of completion

Legal Documents
Powers of attorney

Court orders

Government-issued certificates

Financial Documents
Bank statements

Tax returns

Property titles and deeds

Business Documents

Articles of incorporation

Business registration records

Share certificates
Documents That Usually Cannot Be Certified

Some documents cannot be certified as true copies by a notary public, including:

A notary in Ontario will generally not certify:

documents that are not original, such as photocopies of photocopies,

documents that already state they must be obtained directly from the issuing authority,

documents that are altered, damaged, or incomplete, or

documents where certification must be done by a specific government body (for example, some vital statistics or medical records).

If you are unsure whether your document can be certified, it is best to confirm in advance.

Always check with the notary or relevant authority before requesting certification.

How to Get a Document Certified as a True Copy

The process is straightforward:

Bring the original document and the photocopy you want certified.

Present valid photo identification if requested.

The notary compares the copy with the original.

If they match, the notary applies a certification statement, signature, and seal to the copy.

Book your appointment today to have your documents certified accurately and efficiently by a licensed Ontario notary public.

When dealing with important documents, you may be asked to provide a certified true copy instead of the original. But what does that mean in Ontario, and who is authorized to certify documents?Understanding these basics can help you avoid delays when dealing with government offices, schools, employe...

04/14/2026

https://www.affordablemarkhamnotary.com/post/what-is-an-osap-affidavit-and-do-you-need-one

An affidavit is a written statement of fact that you swear or affirm to be true in front of a lawyer, commissioner of oaths, or notary public. Because it is sworn evidence, an affidavit carries legal weight. Providing false information in an affidavit can have serious consequences.

In the context of the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP), an OSAP affidavit is a sworn statement used to support your student financial assistance application in Ontario.

OSAP may request an affidavit when you are unable to provide official documentation to confirm certain details about your personal, family, or financial situation. In other words, if you cannot obtain a formal document (such as a marriage certificate, court order, tax slip, or separation agreement), OSAP may allow you to confirm the information by swearing an affidavit instead.

Situations Where You May Need an OSAP Affidavit
You may be required to submit an affidavit to confirm:

You are living in a common-law relationship

You are a sole support parent

Your marital status (married, separated, divorced, widowed)

Your income (including foreign or non-taxable income)

Your spouse’s income

Below are the most common types of OSAP affidavits and what they typically require.

Common Types of OSAP Affidavits

1. OSAP Affidavit of Common-Law Status
If you do not have formal documentation proving your common-law relationship, you and your partner may need to swear an affidavit confirming that:

You have lived together in a conjugal relationship outside of marriage continuously for at least three years; or

You have lived together for less than three years in a relationship of some permanence and are the natural or adoptive parents of a child.

Both partners are generally required to sign this affidavit.

2. Affidavit of Sole Support Parent – Never Married or Widowed
If you are a sole support parent who has never married or is widowed, you must swear an affidavit confirming:

Your child(ren) will live with you full-time during the academic year

The birth dates of your child(ren)

If you are widowed, you must also provide a copy of your spouse’s death certificate.

3. Affidavit of Sole Support Parent – Separated or Divorced
If you are separated or divorced and do not have a separation agreement, divorce judgment, or court order, you may need to provide an affidavit stating:

The date of your separation or divorce

Details of your custody arrangements

Confirmation that your child(ren) will live with you at least 50% of the time during the academic year

4. OSAP Affidavit of Marital Status (Married)
If you are married but cannot provide a marriage certificate, you and your spouse may be required to swear an affidavit confirming:

The date of your marriage

The details of your marriage

5. OSAP Affidavit of Marital Status – Separated or Divorced With No Dependent Children
If you are separated or divorced, do not have a formal agreement or court order, and do not have children living with you during the academic year, you may submit an affidavit confirming:

The date of your separation or divorce

Relevant details about the change in your marital status

6. OSAP Affidavits Relating to Income
OSAP frequently requires affidavits when tax documents or official income records are unavailable.

Student’s Foreign or Non-Taxable Income
If you earned foreign or non-taxable income that was not reported to the Canada Revenue Agency and cannot provide supporting documentation, you may submit an affidavit explaining:

Why documentation is unavailable

The amount earned

The currency

The source of income

Student’s Income – No Income
If you did not earn any income in a particular year, you must provide an affidavit stating:

Where you resided during that year

How you supported yourself

Why you had no income

Spouse’s Foreign or Non-Taxable Income
If your spouse earned foreign or non-taxable income that cannot be documented, they must swear an affidavit explaining:

Why documentation is unavailable

The amount, currency, and source of income

Parent’s Foreign or Non-Taxable Income
If your parent earned foreign or non-taxable income that cannot be verified through official documents, they may complete an affidavit stating:

Why documentation is unavailable

The amount, currency, and source of income

Parent’s Income – No Income
If your parent had no income in a particular year, they must swear an affidavit explaining:

Where they resided during that year

How they supported themselves

Why they had no income

Important: Affidavits Must Be Properly Sworn
An OSAP affidavit must be signed in front of a lawyer, commissioner of oaths, or notary public. You cannot sign it in advance. The official must verify your identity and witness your signature before applying their seal and signature.

Free OSAP affidavit templates are available in office for common-law relationship, sole support parent, confirmation of marital status, declaring non-taxable foreign income and more.

An affidavit is a written statement of fact that you swear or affirm to be true in front of a lawyer, commissioner of oaths, or notary public. Because it is sworn evidence, an affidavit carries legal weight. Providing false information in an affidavit can have serious consequences.In the context of....