10 Important Tips to Know Before Signing Documents With a Notary Public
When you need an important document notarized, being prepared can save you time, prevent delays, and make the signing process much easier. Whether you’re signing a power of attorney, real estate documents, an affidavit, or another legal document, knowing what to expect before your notary appointment is essential.
At Karen Spain Notary, we want to help you feel confident and prepared when using professional notary services.
1. Bring a Valid Government-Issued Photo ID
One of the most important things to bring to your notary appointment is proper identification. Your notary public must verify your identity before notarizing your signature.
Commonly accepted identification may include:
- A valid driver’s license
- A state-issued identification card
- A U.S. passport
- Other identification permitted under applicable state notary laws
Notary Tip: Check with your notary ahead of time to confirm that your identification meets your state’s requirements.
2. Don’t Sign Your Documents Too Early
Some notarizations require you to sign the document in front of the notary public. Others may allow you to acknowledge a signature you previously made.
Notary Tip: If you’re unsure which type of notarization you need, wait to sign until you have confirmed the requirements.
3. Make Sure Your Documents Are Complete
Before visiting a notary public, review your paperwork carefully. Make sure all required information has been filled in and that you have the complete document.
A notary may be unable to proceed when a document is incomplete.
Notary Tip: Review your paperwork for missing pages, blank spaces, and incomplete information before your scheduled appointment.
4. Know Which Type of Notarization You Need
Different documents require different notarial acts. Two common types include:
- Acknowledgment: The signer acknowledges having signed the document.
- Jurat: The signer signs in the notary’s presence and takes an oath or affirmation regarding the truthfulness of the statement.
Your notary public cannot choose the type of notarization for you when doing so would constitute unauthorized legal advice.
Notary Tip: Ask the organization receiving your document which notarial act is required.
5. Make Sure All Signers Are Available
If your document requires multiple notarized signatures, coordinate with everyone who needs to sign.
Each signer must satisfy the applicable identification and personal appearance requirements.
Notary Tip: Confirm the number of signers before scheduling your notary appointment.
6. Ask About Mobile Notary Services
Need a notary but can’t easily travel to an office? A mobile notary public may be able to come to your home, office, hospital, or another convenient meeting location.
Mobile notary services can be especially helpful for busy professionals, seniors, and people with limited mobility.
Notary Tip: Ask about mobile notary availability, travel fees, and scheduling options before booking.
7. Understand Notary Fees Before Your Appointment
Notary fees can vary depending on your location, the type of notarial act, and whether travel is involved.
Notary Tip: Request an explanation of applicable notarization and travel fees in advance so you know what to expect.
8. Be Prepared to Sign Willingly
A notary public must be satisfied that the signer is acting willingly and understands the nature of the transaction sufficiently to complete the notarial act.
A notary may refuse to proceed if there are concerns about coercion, identity, or the signer’s awareness.
Notary Tip: Never pressure someone into signing a notarized document.
9. Double-Check Names and Document Details
Before your notary appointment, review the names and other important details on your paperwork.
If your document contains an error, contact the document preparer or receiving organization for guidance.
Notary Tip: Correct document errors before the appointment whenever possible.
10. Choose a Professional and Reliable Notary Public
When searching for a notary public near me, look for someone who is professional, dependable, knowledgeable about applicable notary procedures, and clear about appointment requirements.
A good notary will explain the notarization process, verify identification, and follow the laws governing notarial acts.
Schedule Your Notary Appointment With Karen Spain Notary
Preparing ahead of time can help make your notary appointment simple, efficient, and stress-free.
Whether you need a signature notarized, have questions about the notarization process, or want to schedule an appointment, Karen Spain Notary is here to help.
Visit karenspainnotary.com to learn more and get started.
Disclaimer: Notarization requirements vary by state and document type. A notary public who is not a licensed attorney cannot provide legal advice or determine the legal validity of your documents.
