What does it mean when a signer "acknowledges" a document?

When a signer "acknowledges" a document, it signifies that the signer has voluntarily confirmed that they are aware of the contents of the document and agrees to be bound by it. This process is critical in notary work, as the notary must ensure that the signer understands what they are signing and is doing so willingly and without coercion. Acknowledgment serves to validate the authenticity of the signature and the signer's intention regarding the document.

This understanding contrasts with the other options, where refusal to sign indicates a rejection of the document, signing without understanding suggests a lack of acknowledgment, and a witness requirement does not inherently pertain to what acknowledgment means in this context. Acknowledgment is fundamentally about the agreement and recognition of the document's contents, emphasizing the signer's commitment.