Requirements for signers
- Valid photo ID: This must be government-issued and current. Examples include a driver’s license, state ID card, or U.S. passport.
- Complete document: Bring the full document to be notarized. Do not sign it before your appointment, as the signature must be made in the notary’s presence.
- Physical presence: All signers must be present in the room with the notary for the notarization.
- Payment: Be prepared to pay the notarial fee, which can vary by state.
- Other individuals: If other people need to sign, they must also be present with their own valid IDs.
- Device and internet (for remote notarization): If using a remote online notary service, you will need a computer or smartphone with a webcam, a good internet connection, and the ability to pay with a credit card.
What the notary will do
- Examine your ID and the document to ensure everything is complete.
- Verify your identity and that you are signing of your own free will.
- Observe you as you sign the document and complete the necessary notarial certificate.
- Administer an oath or affirmation if required for the specific notarization
Common Types of Notarial Acts
Acknowledgement: The signer verbally confirms to the notary that they signed the document of their own free will. The notary verifies the signer’s identity and that the signature is authentic.
Verbal example: “Do you acknowledge that you signed this document willingly?”
Jurat: The signer takes a sworn oath or gives a solemn affirmation that the contents of the document are true. The notary must administer the oath and witness the signature being made.
Verbal example (oath): “Do you solemnly swear that the statements in this document are true, so help you God?”
Verbal example (affirmation): “Do you affirm under penalties of perjury that the statements contained herein are true?”
Signature Witnessing: The notary verifies the signer’s identity and witnesses them sign the document, but the signer does not need to make a verbal declaration. This is different from an acknowledgement, which requires the signer to verbally acknowledge their signature.
Copy Certification: The notary certifies that a copy of an original document is a complete and accurate reproduction