Does my complaint need to be notarized?
Last updated: 2026-07-11 · Educational content; not legal advice.
Short answer
It depends on where you file. The small claims Statement of Claim must be verified (sworn under oath) and accompanied by a Certification of Non-Forum Shopping, so it is notarized. The SEC requires a verified complaint for formal proceedings against a lending or financing company. By contrast, the BSP Consumer Assistance Mechanism accepts an unsworn initial complaint and only asks for a verified one if the matter advances to formal adjudication. When in doubt, having your complaint notarized never hurts.
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Frequently asked
Does a small claims Statement of Claim need notarizing?
Yes. The Statement of Claim must be verified — that is, sworn to under oath before a notary or authorized officer — and it comes with a Certification of Non-Forum Shopping, which is also verified.
Does a BSP complaint have to be notarized?
Not at the start. The BSP Consumer Assistance Mechanism accepts an unsworn initial complaint; if the case moves to formal adjudication, BSP may then require a verified (sworn) complaint.
What about SEC and NPC complaints?
The SEC requires a verified complaint for formal proceedings against lending and financing companies. NPC complaints under its rules are likewise filed as verified complaints under oath. Prepare to have these notarized.
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