Name Affidavits vs. Proper ID: What Washington State Law Says About Signer Identification
- Kendra Marroquin
- Apr 7
- 1 min read
Ever been told that a Signature/Name Affidavit (SNA) can be used to verify identity? If so, let’s clear this up with 4 words- Not in Washington State!
So, what is a Signature/Name Affidavit?
It’s a document used in loan signings where signers swear that variations of their name listed on the affidavit (from credit records, past legal documents, etc.) all belong to them. Sometimes, title companies suggest using this document when a signer’s ID doesn’t match exactly, but that’s NOT an acceptable substitute for proper identification under Washington State law.
WA State law requires a valid form of ID, such as:
Driver’s License or State ID
U.S. Passport
Other officially accepted government-issued identification
What we CANNOT do is rely on a Signature/Name Affidavit to confirm identity! It’s not a legal substitute for proper ID in Washington. Even if title or escrow suggests it, notaries must follow state law.
A few more SNA facts:
The name variations listed come from credit history, and sometimes errors occur (like a spouse’s name appearing incorrectly). If a signer doesn’t recognize a name, they should write “Never known by this name” next to it and initial.
Since the SNA is an affidavit, the notary must administer an oath before the signer signs.
The takeaway?
If someone tells you a Signature/Name Affidavit can replace proper ID, they’re mistaken, and you don’t want an invalid notarization on your hands!
Need a knowledgeable, by-the-book notary who gets it done right the first time? Let’s connect!
GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES
Notarization may be boring, but I’m not!
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