If someone told you to get your document “commissioned” and you’ve been Googling whether that’s the same as getting it notarized, you’re not alone. The two terms get used interchangeably, but they don’t mean the same thing. Here’s the distinction, in plain language.
What Does a Commissioner for Oaths Do?
A commissioner for oaths is an individual authorized under Ontario’s Commissioners for Taking Affidavits Act to administer oaths and affirmations, and to witness the signing of certain documents. Many lawyers, paralegals, real estate professionals, and government employees hold this designation. Common documents a commissioner can certify include affidavits, statutory declarations, and solemn affirmations for domestic use within Ontario.
How Is That Different From a Notary Public?
A notary public holds a higher designation in Ontario. A notary can do everything a commissioner for oaths can do, but the authority extends further. Notaries can certify true copies of documents, authenticate documents for use outside Ontario, and notarize documents intended for international or federal purposes. The practical test: if your document is staying within Ontario for a domestic purpose, a commissioner may be sufficient. If it’s crossing a provincial border, heading to a federal body, or going abroad, you need a notary public.
Can a Commissioner Replace a Notary?
For some things, yes. For others, no. A commissioner can replace a notary for: domestic affidavits, internal statutory declarations, and Ontario court filings that only require a commissioner’s seal. A commissioner cannot replace a notary for: certified true copies of documents, anything requiring an apostille, immigration submissions to IRCC, or documents for use in foreign countries or other provinces that specifically require a notarial seal.
The Easiest Way to Know Which One You Need
Check what the requesting institution or form specifically asks for. If it says “notary public” or “notarized,” you need a notary. If it says “commissioner for oaths” or “sworn before an authorized official,” a commissioner may work.
At Notable Notary, we have both licensed notary publics and commissioners for oaths, which means we can handle both. Clients across Whitby, Ajax, Pickering, and Oshawa use our general notary services, mobile appointments, and online commissioning/notarization to get documents sorted without confusion.
📞 Call: (289) 312-6678
💻 Book Online: notablenotary.ca/book-now
📧 Email: info@notablenotary.ca
