Helpful Information

Notary Resources

Everything you need to know about notary services, document preparation, and legal requirements. Your complete guide to understanding the notarization process.

Essential Notary Information

Browse our comprehensive collection of guides, checklists, and helpful information to make your notarization experience smooth and successful.

Document Preparation

Learn how to properly prepare your documents before notarization to ensure a smooth and efficient process.

Required identification documents
Document completion checklist
Common preparation mistakes

ID Requirements

Understand what forms of identification are acceptable for notarization and how to ensure you have proper ID.

Acceptable ID types
Expired ID policies
Alternative identification options

Types of Notarizations

Learn about different types of notarial acts and which one is appropriate for your specific document.

Acknowledgments explained
Jurat requirements
Copy certifications

Real Estate Guide

Everything you need to know about notarizing real estate documents, loan signings, and property transactions.

Loan signing process
Required signers present
Timeline expectations

Legal Documents

Important information about notarizing wills, trusts, power of attorney, and other legal documents.

Will and trust requirements
Power of attorney basics
Healthcare directives

Step-by-Step Guides

Pre-Appointment Checklist

1
Gather Required Documents

Collect all documents that need notarization and your government-issued photo ID.

2
Review Document Completion

Ensure all fields are filled out except signature lines - DO NOT sign beforehand.

3
Verify Signer Availability

Confirm all required signers will be present with valid ID at appointment time.

4
Prepare Payment

Have cash or card ready for service fees and notarization costs.

Acceptable Forms of ID

✅ Primary IDs (Preferred)
  • • Valid Driver's License
  • • State-Issued ID Card
  • • U.S. Passport
  • • Military ID
⚠️ Secondary IDs (May Require Additional Verification)
  • • Foreign Passport with Translation
  • • Permanent Resident Card
  • • Consular ID (with restrictions)
❌ Not Acceptable
  • • Expired IDs (over 5 years)
  • • Photocopies
  • • Social Security Cards
  • • Birth Certificates

Quick Reference FAQ

Can I sign documents before the notary arrives?

No. Documents must be signed in the presence of the notary. Pre-signed documents cannot be notarized.

What if my ID is expired?

IDs expired less than 5 years may be acceptable. Contact us to discuss your specific situation.

Do I need witnesses for notarization?

Most notarizations don't require witnesses, but some documents (like wills) may. We'll advise you based on your specific documents.

How long does notarization take?

Simple notarizations take 5-10 minutes. Loan signings typically take 30-60 minutes depending on document complexity.

Can you notarize blank documents?

No. All documents must be complete before notarization, with only signature lines left blank for signing.

What if I have questions about my documents?

We can explain the notarization process but cannot provide legal advice. Consult an attorney for legal questions about document content.