Answer:
If the affidavit is for the sole use of your institution, you may accept anything you wish. However, if it is expected to be used in any official manner, something drafted entirely by the customer is likely to be worthless.
Vendors of bank forms generally sell "off the shelf" affidavits. While they may suffice, your bank's attorney should be able to draft something that better protects your institution and would be more readily accepted by law enforcement and the courts.
First published on BankersOnline.com 01/19/04