General Affidavit Template, Free Download 2026
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When Do You Need a General Affidavit?
You need to provide a sworn statement, also known as an affidavit of fact, for use in a court proceeding, legal matter, government filing, or business transaction.
A court, attorney, or government agency requires an affidavit to support a motion, petition, application, or response in a legal proceeding.
You need to attest to specific facts that are within your personal knowledge, such as identity, residence, relationship, events witnessed, or financial matters, under penalty of perjury.
No specific affidavit form exists for your situation and you need a general-purpose format that can be adapted for any sworn statement.
What Should a General Affidavit Include?
Affiant Identification
The affiant's (person making the statement) full legal name, address, date of birth, and a statement of competency (over 18, of sound mind, personal knowledge of the facts).
Numbered Statements of Fact
Each fact stated in a separate, numbered paragraph. Facts must be based on personal knowledge, not hearsay, opinion, or speculation. Use clear, specific language.
Jurat and Notarization
A jurat (the notary's certification) stating that the affiant appeared before the notary, was identified, and swore or affirmed that the contents are true. The notary's signature, seal, and commission information.
Signature and Date
The affiant's signature, printed name, and the date signed, all executed in the presence of the notary public.
Legal Details: Key Clauses in a General Affidavit
Affiant Declaration
I, [____________] ("Affiant"), being duly sworn (or affirming under penalty of perjury), depose and state as follows. I am over eighteen (18) years of age, of sound mind, and competent to make this Affidavit. I reside at [____________].
Personal Knowledge
The statements made herein are based on my personal knowledge, except where otherwise indicated. I have firsthand knowledge of the facts stated below by virtue of [my position as ____________ / my relationship to ____________ / my direct observation of ____________].
Statement of Facts
I hereby state the following facts: [____________]. [Additional facts may be stated in numbered paragraphs: 1. ____________; 2. ____________; 3. ____________.]
Supporting Information
[If applicable:] The foregoing statements are supported by the following: [attached documents / witness testimony / records / other evidence: ____________]. Copies of supporting documents are attached as Exhibit(s) [____________].
Purpose
This Affidavit is made for the purpose of [____________], including but not limited to use in [legal proceedings / administrative matters / real estate transactions / other: ____________].
Penalties of Perjury
I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of [_____________] [and/or under 28 U.S.C. § 1746] that the foregoing is true and correct to the best of my knowledge, information, and belief. I understand that making false statements in this Affidavit may subject me to criminal penalties for perjury and civil liability.
Execution and Notarization
Subscribed and sworn to (or affirmed) before me on [____________]. Affiant's Signature: [____________]. Notary Public: [Name, Signature, Seal, Commission Expiration]. State of [_____________], County of [____________].
Signature Requirements
Notarization Required
Affidavits are sworn statements that must be signed before a notary public or other authorized officer.
By definition, an affidavit requires an oath administered by a notary. Some states allow remote online notarization.
How to Fill Out a General Affidavit
Identify the Purpose
Determine why the affidavit is needed and what facts must be established. Only include facts that are relevant to the specific purpose.
Draft Factual Statements
Write clear, numbered paragraphs, each stating one fact. Use first person ("I") and present tense where appropriate. Avoid opinions, conclusions, and legal arguments.
Review for Accuracy
Carefully verify every statement. Remember that you are swearing to the truth of each statement under penalty of perjury.
Sign Before a Notary
Do NOT sign the affidavit before visiting the notary. The notary must witness your signature, verify your identity, and administer the oath or affirmation.
Free Template vs Custom General Affidavit
| Feature | Free Template | Custom (AI or Attorney) |
|---|---|---|
| Basic printable general affidavit form (PDF download) | ||
| Court-specific formatting and requirements | - | |
| Specialized affidavit types (identity, residence, heirship) | - | |
| Attorney review of affidavit statements | - |
Key Facts About General Affidavit Documents
General affidavit is a sworn written statement of facts made under penalty of perjury.
Affidavits must be signed before a notary public who administers the oath.
Lying on an affidavit constitutes perjury punishable by up to 5 years imprisonment.
28 U.S.C. Section 1746 allows unsworn declarations under penalty of perjury as substitutes for notarized affidavits in federal proceedings.
Affidavit statements must be based on personal knowledge of the affiant and not on hearsay or speculation.
Key Legal Terms in a General Affidavit
When a Free Template Is Not Enough
Free templates cover standard situations, but a professionally drafted general affidavit accounts for state-specific requirements, unusual circumstances, and enforceability considerations that generic forms miss. If your situation involves significant assets, complex terms, or potential disputes, request an attorney-drafted general affidavit with a custom quote based on your situation.
General Affidavit Template FAQ
Does an affidavit need to be notarized?
What happens if you lie on an affidavit?
Can I write my own affidavit?
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