Wondering what’s the big deal about notary signatures? For notaries public, one of the most important aspects of the notary service is the notary signature. Your signature, along with the notary seal, authenticates and validates the signature of the person who is signing a certain document. Without your signature, a document is not fully notarized.

The part where a notary public puts his or her signature is called the notary certificate. Some of the usual text found on a notarial certificate goes something like this:

Before me, a notary public in and for the said County and State, personally appeared the above named (Signer’s Name) who acknowledged that he/she did sign the foregoing instrument and that the same is his/her free and voluntary act and deed.

For those individuals who are trying to get their documents signed by a notary public, it is important to remember to only put your signature on the document when in front of a commissioned notary. Your physical presence is of utmost importance. Any alternative, either via audio or video channels, are not permitted. Otherwise, a notary public is prohibited to put his or her notary signature on the document.

Also, a certain fee applies to all documents that are notarized. The amount of the fee depends on which State you are residing. For example, a California notary charges a fee of $10.00, while a Virginia notary only charges $5.00. You can search for the list of fees in your area by selecting your State here.

Before notaries public can signed a document, they are required to have the signers verbally acknowledged that the signature is theirs; that they understand the contents and purpose of the document; and they have willingly signed the document in their own free will.

Contracts, power of attorneys, agreements, and deeds are some of the common documents where a notary public is permitted to put his or her notary signature. Other instances where a notary signature is needed are during oaths and affirmations, certifying a copy, and witnessing a signature.

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How about you, what other tips or information do you have for notaries public regarding notary signatures?

By Casey Likeness