1. Understand Your Documents
Before your appointment, take time to review your documents and understand their content.
Notaries are not permitted to offer legal advice or help draft or complete documents.
If you have questions, please consult with the document’s originator or a legal professional.
2. Provide Valid Identification
Each signer must present a current, government-issued photo ID.
Acceptable forms of ID include:
Driver’s License
State Identification Card
Passport
If a signer doesn’t have a valid ID, two credible witnesses with valid ID may be used to verify identity, depending on state laws.
3. Ensure Name Consistency
The name on your ID should match the name on the document.
If your ID includes extra names (like a middle name) not found on the document, that’s usually fine.
However, if the document includes names not present on the ID, corrections may be needed before the notary can proceed.
4. Communicate Directly with the Notary
All signers must be able to communicate clearly and directly with the notary.
Translators are not permitted during the notarization process.
If a signer needs a notary fluent in a specific language, please inform us beforehand.
5. Complete All Document Fields
Documents must be filled out completely before signing.
Blank sections are not permitted, as they can create opportunities for unauthorized changes after the notarization.
6. Confirm Willingness to Sign
Signers must be willing participants.
If any person appears hesitant or under pressure, the notary is required to stop the signing.
Every signer must be acting of their own free will.
7. Assess Mental Competence
Signers must be mentally aware and understand what they are signing.
If a signer is elderly or ill, the notary may ask a few simple questions to ensure clarity.
If there is any doubt about a signer’s mental capacity, the notarization cannot proceed.
Preparing in advance and understanding what to expect, you help ensure a fast, professional, and hassle-free appointment.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, feel free to reach out—we’re here to help!
