Does my document need to be notarized?
Asked by: Alexane Kassulke DDS | Last update: September 11, 2025Score: 4.5/5 (37 votes)
Not every document that needs to be signed needs to be notarized — only certain types of paperwork require a notary's seal. While laws vary from state to state, they typically include real estate transactions, certain legal documents, many financial documents, and some forms related to healthcare.
How do I know if something needs to be notarized?
Signs Your Document Needs to Be Notarized
If it contains the words, “Place Notary Seal Here,” that can indicate you might need a notary service. Typically, a governmental organization or some other entity in charge of a process will let you know that your document or certificate must be notarized.
What is the point of notarizing a document?
Notarization is the official fraud-deterrent process that assures the parties of a transaction that a document is authentic, and can be trusted. It is a three-part process, performed by a Notary Public, that includes of vetting, certifying and record-keeping.
Can I refuse to notarize a document?
Here are several other potential situations when you should refuse the request: You know or suspect the transaction is false, illegal or deceptive. The act being requested is not an authorized notarial act. The signer is unable or unwilling to pay the required fee.
What must a document contain to be notarized?
The completed document you wish to notarize. Valid photo ID that meets state requirements. Any other individuals (with proper ID) who will be signing the document. Payment for notarial services.
What documents need to be notarized?
What makes a notarized document invalid?
Missing or Incorrect Notary Seal
States like California and Texas have specific requirements for the placement and design of the seal. Without a proper seal, legal and financial institutions may reject the document.
What is an example of a form that needs to be notarized?
Common types of notarized documents include deeds, wills, contracts, affidavits, powers of attorney, and real estate documents. These documents require notarization for credibility and legal binding.
Is a document legal if not notarized?
Just like wills, there is generally no requirement that a contract be notarized in order to be legally binding. However, if a party who signed a business agreement decides to dispute that agreement in court, a notarized contract can help a great deal.
Is a scanned notarized document legal?
Are scanned documents legal? Even though you can physically scan a notarized document, this does not necessarily mean the other party is going to accept it. If you are planning on scanning a notarized document, you should reach out to the other party ahead of time to see if he or she will accept it.
Why do some things need to be notarized?
Why do documents need to be notarized? Notarization is an essential part of signing contracts and many other official documents in order to help prevent fraud. Notaries are local officials appointed by the state to serve as impartial witnesses.
What is the difference between signing and notarizing?
In addition to helping to execute the documents, a loan signing agent must also ensure documents are submitted accurately and on time to complete the transaction. Notary publics are not required to review or file the documents to ensure their accuracy, they simply verify the signer's identities and signatures.
Does it matter where you notarize a document?
So, can a notary public notarize out-of-state documents? The short answer is yes, notary publics are legally allowed to notarize documents from any state as long the notarial act is conducted within the geographical boundaries of the notary's state of commission.
How do I get something notarized without being present?
Today, Remote Online Notarization (RON) allows you to connect virtually with a commissioned notary via a two-way online connection to legally eSign and notarize your documents quickly.
Does every page of a document need to be notarized?
If no page numbering or initialing on each page - then you are still only obligated to notarize at the end. The main function of a notary is fraud deterance, and to identify the signer.
How long does it take to get notarized?
It might surprise you, but from start to finish, in-person notarization at a local branch only takes about 5 to 30 minutes. Although there are many places that provide these notary services, it's essential to understand what to expect for a hassle-free experience.
How much does USPS charge to notarize?
The current fee is $15 for each notarial act.
Does CVS have a notary?
CVS notary services provide a reliable solution for those needing official documents notarized without the need to search far and wide. With numerous locations across the country, CVS makes it simple to find a notary near you, helping you save time and effort.
Do banks have notaries?
Most banks have notaries that provide the service for free for their customers and for a fee for non-customers. A document is notarized when a third party, known as a notary public, verifies your identity and witnesses you signing the document.
What happens if you notarize your own document?
You can't notarize your own documents and remain impartial.
Otherwise, you may face criminal or civil liabilities and suspension or revocation of your notary abilities. Even if you can't notarize your own documents, there are plenty of benefits of remote online notarization to help you save time using someone else.
Is a signed piece of paper a legal document?
Although a document must be signed by each party to be considered legally binding, the mere presence of signatures does not guarantee that an agreement is enforceable in court. To be considered a legally binding contract or document, three critical elements must also be present: Subject, Consideration, and Capacity.
Is a text message legally binding?
This ruling states that as long as text messages satisfy the necessary conditions required of a bilateral contract in offer, consideration, capacity, and acceptance, they can be considered legally enforceable.
What do you say when you notarize a document?
Signed and sworn to (or affirmed) before me on ______________ by _________________. This record was acknowledged before me on _______________ by ___________________. Signed (or attested) before me on _______________ by _____________________.
Why do people get documents notarized?
Notary publics witness the signing of important documents and verify the identity of the signer(s), their willingness to sign the documents, and their awareness of the contents of the document or transaction. Institutions rely upon notaries so they may have full faith in important documents.
Does USPS notarize forms?
The United States Postal Service (USPS) occasionally offers notary services at select locations for documents and letters to be mailed domestically or internationally. To have your documents notarized at the post office, we highly recommend reaching out ahead of time.