Introduction
The Affidavit of Attestation of Handwriting is a document used to explain and validate discrepancies in a person's handwriting or signature over time.
As people age, suffer from medical conditions (like stroke, arthritis, or Parkinson's), or sustain hand injuries, their ability to reproduce their signature exactly as it appeared years ago diminishes.
Banking Implications
Banks are legally bound to reject cheques or instructions where the signature does not match the mandate card on file.
This affidavit is the remedy.
The account holder swears that despite the tremors or changes in the visual appearance of the signature, the mark was indeed made by them.
Legal Authorization
This document protects the bank from liability for honoring the "irregular" signature.
It often includes a clause authorizing the bank to accept thumbprints or a new, simplified signature format moving forward, ensuring the individual can still access their funds despite physical limitations.