Whether a document needs a notary depends on your state's laws and on whoever will receive it, such as a bank, court or government agency. The list below covers documents that are commonly notarized. Always follow the instructions on the form or from the receiving party.
Real estate
- Deeds (warranty, quitclaim and grant deeds)
- Mortgage, refinance and home equity loan documents
- Deeds of trust
- Some lease agreements and property management authorizations
Legal and court documents
- Affidavits and sworn statements
- Depositions and declarations, where a jurat is required
- Name change documents
- Settlement agreements, when requested by the parties
Estate planning
- Durable and medical powers of attorney
- Living trusts and trust certifications
- Advance directives and living wills (requirements vary by state; some use witnesses instead)
- Self-proving affidavits attached to wills
Financial and business
- Loan agreements and promissory notes
- Bank and brokerage account authorizations
- Business formation and corporate resolutions, when requested
- Vehicle title transfers and bills of sale in some states
Family and personal
- Child travel consent letters
- Guardianship and caregiver authorization forms
- Adoption paperwork
- Proof-of-residency and identity affidavits
Documents a notary usually can't notarize
- Vital records such as birth, death and marriage certificates. Request certified copies from the issuing agency instead.
- Documents with blank spaces that should be filled in.
- Documents in which the notary has a personal interest.
Before your appointment
- Read the document and fill in every blank except the signature.
- Check whether witnesses are required, and bring them.
- Bring a current government-issued photo ID for each signer.
- Wait to sign until the notary tells you to.
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