Written by Crystal Knight

The notarization process involves several steps, all designed to ensure the legitimacy of the document and the identities of the signers. Here’s an overview of the process:

1. Document Review: The notary first reviews the document to ensure it is complete. Notaries cannot notarize incomplete documents.

2. Identity Verification: The notary checks the identification of each signer to verify their identity.

3. Signature Observation: The notary watches the signers as they sign the document, ensuring they are doing so willingly and under their own power.

4. Notary Journal Entry: Some states require notaries to keep a record of all notarizations in a journal, noting details such as the type of document, date, and names of the signers.

5. Affixing the Seal: After the document is signed, the notary applies their official seal or stamp and signs the document, indicating that it has been notarized.

6. Administering Oaths (if necessary): In some cases, the notary may administer an oath or affirmation, depending on the type of document.