Most people only think about notaries when a form says "must be notarized." Here are five of the most common situations, so you can plan ahead instead of scrambling.
1. Buying, selling or refinancing a home
Real estate closings involve deeds, mortgage documents and disclosures that usually need notarized signatures. Lenders and title companies often send a loan signing agent, a notary trained in closing packages, to your home or office.
2. Giving someone power of attorney
A power of attorney lets a trusted person handle your finances or medical decisions if you can't. Most states require the signature on a durable power of attorney to be notarized, and banks often won't accept one that isn't.
3. Signing an affidavit or sworn statement
Affidavits are written statements you swear are true. They're used in court cases, insurance claims, name changes and residency proofs. You'll sign in front of a notary, who administers an oath or affirmation.
4. Estate planning: trusts and wills
Trust documents are commonly notarized. Wills follow state-specific rules, which usually call for witnesses. Many states also allow a "self-proving affidavit," signed in front of a notary, that can make probate faster. Ask your attorney what your state requires.
5. Travel and family documents
A child traveling abroad with one parent or another adult often needs a notarized travel consent letter. Guardianship forms, school forms and some vehicle title transfers also call for a notary.
Tips to save time
- Don't sign the document before you meet the notary, unless they tell you it's OK.
- Bring a current government-issued photo ID for every signer.
- Bring any witnesses your document requires.
- If you can't travel, book a mobile notary who comes to you, or a remote online notary for a video session where your state allows it.
Book a notary today
Find a verified notary near you on MyNotaryAgents, including mobile and online options.