Most failed notary appointments fail for one of four reasons: the wrong ID, a missing signer, an incomplete document, or missing witnesses. All four are avoidable with five minutes of preparation.
1. Current government-issued photo ID
Every person signing needs their own. A driver license, non-driver ID, or passport works. The notary has to be satisfied you are who the document says you are, and New York notaries must record the type of ID used in their journal.
- The name on the ID should match the name on the document. If you recently married, divorced, or changed your name, say so when you book.
- If your ID is expired, damaged, or you do not have one, call before the appointment. There may be options, but they have to be arranged in advance.
2. The complete document, unsigned
Bring every page, including the page with the notary certificate. Fill in the blanks you are responsible for, but do not sign or date it. Many documents must be signed in front of the notary, and it is easier to wait than to redo it.
A notary cannot notarize a document with blank spaces that should be filled in, and cannot tell you what to write in them.
3. Every signer, in person
Each person whose signature is being notarized has to appear before the notary. One spouse cannot sign for the other, and a signature cannot be notarized over a phone call.
4. Witnesses, if your document needs them
Some documents require witnesses in addition to the notary. A New York power of attorney needs two. A will needs two. A health care proxy needs two. Witnesses generally have to be adults who do not benefit from the document. Ask when you book so the right people are in the room.
5. Know which notarial act you need
Usually the document already includes the notary wording. If it does not, the person or agency asking for the document has to tell you which type they want. The notary is not allowed to choose for you. See acknowledgment vs. jurat.
6. Payment
Ask for the total when you book. For a mobile appointment that is the notarial fee plus travel. See New York notary fees explained.
For a loan signing, add these
- A second form of ID if your lender requires it
- Any funds due at closing, in the form your title company specified
- About an hour of uninterrupted time and a clear table
Common questions
Can I use an expired driver license?
Call before the appointment. Whether an ID is acceptable depends on the document and the circumstances, and it is far better to sort that out in advance than at the table.
Can the notary help me fill out the document?
No. A notary who is not an attorney cannot prepare documents, choose forms, or advise you on what to write.
Does my spouse need to be there?
Only if your spouse's signature is being notarized too. Each person signing must appear in person with their own ID.
Sources
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This guide is general information about New York notarial practice. It is not legal advice. For advice about your situation, consult a New York attorney.