During closing, the seller signs a document certifying their identity to grant title authority. What is this document called?

• A. Deed of Ownership
• B. Warranty Deed
• C. Power of Attorney
• D. Affidavit of Identity

Answer: (D)

Verifying who is signing and that they have the authority to transfer title is a crucial step in a closing. The document used to certify the signer’s identity is called an Affidavit of Identity. It is a sworn statement that the person signing is indeed the rightful owner and has the authority to convey the property. It’s usually notarized and may be supported by government-issued ID and checks against public records. This helps the title company, lender, and recording office confirm there are no identity or authority mismatches, reducing fraud risk and ensuring the transfer can be recorded properly.

The other documents serve different roles: a deed of ownership is the instrument that actually conveys ownership; a warranty deed is a type of deed that includes covenants about title; a Power of Attorney would authorize someone else to sign on behalf of the seller, which isn’t the scenario described where the seller signs to certify identity.