If you’re preparing a document to be notarized, a few simple precautions can prevent many of the most common problems.
Before you hire a mobile notary
- Do not sign the document ahead of time. Most notarizations require you to sign your document in the notary’s presence.
- Bring a valid, government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license or passport. Make sure the name on your ID matches the name you’re signing. Make sure that your ID is current and unexpired.
- You may complete the document beforehand, but be careful to leave the signature and notarial sections blank. They should be completed at the notary appointment.
- Don’t leave important blanks empty. It is important to complete all blank area to make sure that they document cannot be altered later.
- Know what type of notarization you need. Whether it is loan closing documents, a vehicle sale, a power of attorney or an absentee ballot, the notary needs to know what kind of document that will be signed.
- Bring any witnesses required by the document. Witnesses and notaries have different roles, and a notary will usually NOT witness a document in addition to the notarial act. Many notaries can provide witness but will usually require an additional charge.
- Bring the complete document, including attachments or exhibits that are supposed to be part of it.
- Don’t ask the notary for legal advice. A notary can generally verify identity, administer an oath when appropriate, and complete the notarial certificate, but a notary is not an attorney or a Doctor and will not give you legal or medical advice.
At the appointment
Be prepared to personally appear before the notary, establish your identity, and answer any required questions. Don’t be surprised if the notary refuses to proceed if something appears improper. The notary is required by law to make sure that the document is as it should be.
Don’t make changes to the document after it has been notarized without determining whether the changes require a new notarization. If changes are submitted after the notarization, it could render it invalid.
One particularly important issue
If this is a legal document, power of attorney, real-estate document, affidavit, estate document, or document being used in another state or country, the requirements can be substantially different. In those situations, it’s worth making sure the document’s notarial wording is correct before your mobile notary arrives.
Have other questions? I would love to help you. Give me a call at 405.751.0004.
Blessings!
Carolyn Whitaker
