Affordable Markham Notary Public

08/15/2026

https://www.affordablemarkhamnotary.com/post/ontario-apostille-services-what-is-an-apostille-and-how-can-we-help

07/27/2026

https://www.affordablemarkhamnotary.com/post/uk-state-pension-life-certificate-in-ontario-how-a-notary-public-can-help

If you receive a UK State Pension while living in Ontario or elsewhere outside the United Kingdom, you may occasionally be asked by the UK Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to complete a Life Certificate.

Many pensioners are unsure who can witness the form or where to have it completed. Fortunately, if you live in Ontario, a Notary Public can usually act as an authorized witness.

At Affordable Markham Notary Public, we regularly assist clients with witnessing and notarizing documents for use in the United Kingdom, including UK Life Certificates.

If you receive a UK State Pension while living in Ontario or elsewhere outside the United Kingdom, you may occasionally be asked by the UK Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to complete a Life Certificate.Many pensioners are unsure who can witness the form or where to have it completed. Fortunat...

07/16/2026

https://www.affordablemarkhamnotary.com/post/what-does-a-notary-public-do-in-ontario

If you've ever been asked to "get a document notarized," you may have wondered what a Notary Public actually does. Whether you're preparing documents for travel, immigration, real estate, or use overseas, a Notary Public plays an important role in verifying documents and identities.At Affordable Mar...

06/13/2026

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

What Is a Proof of Life Certificate?

A Proof of Life Certificate is a document used to verify that a pension recipient or benefit holder is still alive and eligible to continue receiving payments. Many organizations require an independent professional, such as a Notary Public, to verify the individual's identity and certify the document.

How Often Do I Need to Submit One?

The frequency varies depending on the organization and country involved. Some pension providers require a life certificate every year, while others may request one every six months or every two years.

Can a Notary Public Sign My Life Certificate?

In many cases, yes. However, it is important to carefully review the instructions on your form before booking an appointment. A Notary Public can verify your identity and certify documents when the form permits notarization. However, if the form requires a witness or guarantor who personally knows you and can attest to knowing you for a specific period of time, a Notary Public may not be able to complete that section unless those requirements are met.

What Do I Need to Bring?

To have your life certificate notarized, you will generally need to:

Attend the appointment in person.

Bring valid government-issued photo identification, such as a passport or driver's licence.

Bring any additional documents required by the issuing organization.

Provide proof of address if the form specifically requires the notary to confirm your residence.

What Happens During the Appointment?

The Notary Public will:

Review your identification.

Confirm your identity and presence.

Witness your signature, if required.

Complete the notarial section of the form.

Sign, date, and apply their official notary seal.

Once completed, your Proof of Life Certificate will be ready to submit to your pension provider, government agency, or insurance company.

You can book an appointment here: https://www.affordablemarkhamnotary.com/booking-calendar/signature-notarization?referral=service_list_widget

​The information on this website is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Viewing this website, sending an email, or communicating with Affordable Markham Notary Public does not create a lawyer-client relationship. Email communications may not be se...

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