Signature-by-Mark
When an individual requests a notarial act and the individual is prevented by disability or
illiteracy from writing a signature, take these precautions: positively identify the individual;
ensure that there are two persons to witness the signature-by-mark in addition to yourself; write
in the name of the signer-by-mark near the mark on the document, and complete the form below.
State of Illinois
County of ___________________.
This instrument was acknowledged before me on _________________ (date) by
________________________________________________(name of person) who made
and acknowledged making his/her mark on the instrument in my presence and in the
presence of two persons who have signed below.
(seal)
___________________________
signature of notary public
___________________________
signature and address of witness
___________________________
signature and address of witness
Oaths or Affirmations
On rare occasions, a notary may be asked to administer a verbal oath or affirmation. Illinois
notaries public are authorized to administer such oaths not only by the Notary Public Act but also
by other state laws (Illinois Revised Statutes, ch. 101). Notaries may administer oaths to
witnesses, the oath of office to public officials when an oath of office is required to be taken, and
oaths on any other occasion when an oath is required.
An oath contains the words, “I do solemnly swear . . . ,” and an affirmation contains the words,
“I do solemnly affirm . . . .” Either form may be used, as both are effective in invoking the
perjury statute against the maker of a false statement.
The exact wording of the oaths or affirmations can vary from situation to situation. It is not the
obligation of a notary to ascertain the proper wording of an oath or affirmation, but the notary
can administer it when the proper wording is provided. Following is a constitutional oath or
affirmation required to be taken by most elected state and local officials.
Oath or Affirmation:
“I do solemnly swear (affirm) that I will support the Constitution of the United
States, and the Constitution of the State of Illinois, and that I will faithfully discharge
the duties of the office of ________________________ to the best of my ability.”