The Affidavit of Publication: What It Is and How to Confirm Completion
Updated October 10, 2026
Short answer: an affidavit of publication, also called a proof of publication, is the newspaper's signed statement listing the dates your FBN notice ran. California law requires it to be filed with the clerk of the county where your statement was filed, within 45 days after the fourth publication (B&P Code §17917(d)).
Three Different Documents People Call "Proof"
| Document | What It Shows |
|---|---|
| Signed Affidavit of Publication | The newspaper's sworn record of the dates your notice ran. This is what PublishProof emails you. |
| Submission Confirmation | A record that the affidavit was sent to the county clerk. It shows the step was done, not that the clerk has processed it. |
| County Acknowledgment | Confirmation from the clerk that the affidavit is on file. Not every county issues one automatically. |
Who Files It?
Legally, the registrant is responsible. San Diego County notes that some newspapers file the affidavit for an additional fee, but that filing it remains the registrant's responsibility. When you order through PublishProof, we arrange the filing for you and tell you when it has been submitted.
How to Confirm Your Publication Is Complete
- Check the affidavit's four publication dates. The first should fall within 45 days of your filing date.
- Confirm the affidavit was submitted to the clerk of the county where you filed.
- If you need certainty, for example for a bank, contact the county clerk and ask whether the affidavit is on file for your FBN number.
- Keep a copy with your business records.
General information, not legal advice.
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