Whether you are purchasing a home, signing an employment contract, or finalizing your will, a notary public will play a crucial role. The notarization process is vital as it helps to ensure that all information in a document is factually correct and that each party fully understands the contents of each document. As a leading provider of notarizations and other services, the team at Sidhu & Associates knows how intimidating and complex the notarization process can appear. That is why we have compiled a list of 5 steps to notarize a document to help you prepare for the process and understand what it entails.
Learn about the types of documents that can be notarized.
What Does it Mean to Notarize a Document?
Notarization is a process where a notary public acts as a witness while you provide your signature for a document. During this process, the notary public’s job is to check for identification, willingness to sign, and the capability of making sound decisions. It should be noted that a notary may refuse to validate a signature should they find any problems with an individual’s capability or the contents of a document.
Notarizing a Document in 5 Steps
While the notarizing process may vary slightly from case to case, most notarization processes can be broken down into the following 5 steps:
1. Contact a Notary Public of Your Choice
First, you will need to choose a notary public to work with and contact them to ensure they can provide the services you need.
2. Prepare Your Paperwork
You will be asked to bring 2 pieces of valid identification to your notarization signing along with any paperwork or supplementary information needed to process your legal document(s). Once all information and documents are prepared for notarization, all parties involved in the document must be present for the witnessing of signatures by a notary public.
3. Validate Your Identity and Sign Documents
Once your identities are validated, your notary public will witness the signature(s) and apply their stamp and/or seal upon the authentication of your notarized document.
4. Receive a Seal of Authentication
Once the seal has been applied, your document is officially notarized.
5. Debrief if Needed to Review any Information
If you have any additional questions regarding your notarized document or notary fees, your notary will answer them and ensure that you have all the information you need.
To learn more about our notarizations and other services, get in touch with the team at Sidhu & Associates. We can be reached through our online contact form and will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding our services or your documents.
