Before You Visit a Notary: 7 Things to Know Before Your Appointment
Have you ever needed an important document notarized but weren’t sure what to bring or what to expect? You’re not alone!! Many people need notarization for the first time and have questions about identification, signatures, witnesses, and the appointment process.
At Notaries by Deb, LLC, I believe that understanding the process ahead of time can help make your notary appointment easier and less stressful.
Whether you need general notary services, a mobile notary, or Remote Online Notarization (RON), here are seven helpful tips to prepare:
Bring An Acceptable Form of Identification. Identification is an important part of the notarization process. Depending on the type of notarization and applicable Tennessee requirements, you may need an acceptable government-issued photo ID or another permitted method of identifying yourself. Before your appointment, ask your notary which forms of identification are accepted. If your ID is expired, damaged, or unavailable, explain the situation before scheduling.
Do Not Sign Your Document Too Early. Some documents must be signed in the notary’s presence. If you sign before your appointment, the notary may need you to sign or may need to follow a different procedure, depending on the notarial act required. My tip: When possible, wait until your notary tells you it is time to sign.
Make Sure Your Document Is Complete. Review your paperwork before your appointment. Check that the document is ready for notarization and that any required information has been completed. If there are blank spaces, missing pages, or unclear instructions, ask the receiving organization how the document should be prepared. A notary cannot decide for you what legal language belongs in your document.
Know Whether You Need an Acknowledgment or a Jurat. Not all notarizations are the same. In an Acknowledgment, you acknowledge that you signed a document voluntarily. In a Jurat, you swear or affirm that the statements in a document are true and sign as part of the notarial process. The document or the organization requesting it may specify which notarial act is required. If you are unsure, contact the receiving organization or a qualified legal professional before your appointment.
Ask Whether Witnesses are Required. Some documents require witnesses in addition to notarization. Requirements vary depending on the document and the organization receiving it. If your paperwork mentions witnesses, let your notary know when scheduling. Do Not assume the notary can automatically provide witnesses. Planning ahead can help prevent delays.
Choose The Notary Service That Fits Your Needs. There are different ways to arrange a. notarization, depending on your circumstances and the type of document. General Notary Services is when you meet with a notary for an eligible document. Mobile Notary Services is when you arrange for a notary to travel to an agreed-upon location, subject to availability and travel arrangements. Remote Online Notarization (RON) is for eligible documents and signers, complete a notarization through an approved online process using identity verification and electronic signing procedures. Remote Online Notarization is not appropriate for every document or situation, so check that your document can be handled this way before booking.
Ask Questions Before Your Appointment. A little preparation can save time. When contacting your notary, be ready to explain: What type of document you need. notarized; Whether you need a mobile appointment or online notarization; Where you are located, if you need mobile service; Whether the document requires witnesses; Your preferred appointment date and time.
Please remember that a notary verifies identity and performs authorized notarial acts. A notary who is not an attorney cannot provide legal advice or tell you which legal document you should use.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Notaries by Deb, LLC does not provide legal advice or legal representation. Requirements may vary depending on the document and transaction.
