Appointment Preparation

Know what type of notarization you need.

Generally, a document must be 100% complete for a Notary to perform a notarization. Make sure there aren’t any blank spaces on your document before you meet 

Bring acceptable forms of identification like a driver’s license or passport.

If more than one signature is needed on the document, all parties must be present and identification produced before a Notary signature and seal are placed on the document. If your document is requiring witnesses, please be sure to bring your witnesses along with you as we are not able to provide witnesses.

f you’ve recently changed your legal name due to marriage, divorce or other reasons, be sure that the ID you bring to the notarization matches your name shown on the document. If there’s a significant discrepancy — for example, your married name appearing on the document is “Mary Smith-Williams” but your ID contains your maiden name of “Mary Smith” — then the Notary will not be able to proceed with the notarization unless you can provide an alternate form of acceptable identification that matches the name on the document.

One of the basic duties of a Notary is to screen document signers for willingness and awareness. That means a Notary will check that you are mentally aware and alert at the time of the notarization, and that you are signing the document voluntarily and not under duress. While this is essential for persons of all ages, it is particularly important for the elderly or infirm. If you do not understand the details of your transaction, or you aren’t sure you want to sign the paper in front of you, take steps to address these issues before going to a Notary appointment.