In Ontario, a commissioner for taking affidavits (often called a commissioner of oaths) administers oaths and affirmations and takes affidavits and statutory declarations under the Commissioners for Taking Affidavits Act. Every lawyer in Ontario is a commissioner by virtue of their office, so every notary at Notary Point can commission your document.
Commissioner or notary: which do you need?
| Commissioner for taking affidavits | Notary public | |
|---|---|---|
| Administers oaths and affirmations | Yes | Yes |
| Takes affidavits and statutory declarations | Yes | Yes |
| Certifies true copies of documents | Not part of a commissioner’s powers | Yes |
| Witnesses signatures for use outside Ontario | Usually not accepted | Yes |
| Signature can be apostilled by ODS | No | Yes |
The short version: for a document staying in Ontario that only needs to be sworn, a commissioner is enough. For certified copies or anything leaving the province, you need a notary. Our staff are both, so you never have to choose.
Fees
Notarization from $30 per document. Ask us about a discount when you bring several documents in one visit. Drafting is available; the fee depends on the document and may involve additional charges, so please tell us what you need drafted and we will quote before any work begins.