What Can A Notary Do?

When most people think of a notary public, they think of someone who verifies signatures and administers oaths. However, notaries can do much more than that. In fact, notaries can perform a wide range of duties, depending on their state’s laws and regulations. In this post, we’ll explore some of the other tasks that notaries can perform.

1. Certify Copies of Documents

Notaries can certify copies of documents, which is useful when you need to provide a certified copy of a document but don’t want to part with the original. For example, if you’re applying for a passport, you may need to provide a certified copy of your birth certificate. A notary can certify that the copy is a true and accurate reproduction of the original.

2. Witness the Signing of Documents

In addition to verifying signatures, notaries can also witness the signing of certain legal documents. For example, if you need to sign a power of attorney or a will, a notary can serve as a witness to ensure that the document is signed voluntarily and without coercion.

3. Administer Oaths and Affirmations

Notaries are authorized to administer oaths and affirmations, which are solemn promises to tell the truth. Oaths are typically used in courtrooms, while affirmations are used in situations where the person taking the oath has a religious objection to swearing.

4. Verify the Identity of Signers

Notaries can also verify the identity of signers. This is particularly useful when you’re signing a document remotely, such as through a video conference. The notary will ask for identification and will use their own knowledge or credible witnesses to verify that the person signing the document is who they say they are.

5. Translate Documents

In some states, notaries are authorized to translate documents from one language to another. The notary will certify that the translation is accurate and complete, and may need to provide a signed statement attesting to their proficiency in the languages involved.

6. Provide Mobile Notary Services

Some notaries provide mobile notary services, meaning they will travel to a client’s location to perform notarial acts. This is especially useful for people who are unable to travel, such as elderly or disabled individuals, or for businesses that need documents notarized at multiple locations.

7. Remote Online Notary (RON)

Remote Online Notary (RON) is a newer service that has gained popularity in recent years, especially with the rise of remote work and the need for virtual notarizations. With RON, notaries are able to perform notarizations remotely via video conference, allowing them to work with clients who are located in different parts of the country or even around the world. To become a RON, notaries must complete additional training and certification, as well as comply with state-specific requirements. Offering RON services can be a great way to expand your notary business and offer a more convenient service to your clients.

◦ In conclusion, notaries are much more versatile than most people realize. Whether you need a document certified, a signature verified, or an oath administered, a notary can help. If you’re not sure whether a notary can perform a certain task, check your state’s laws and regulations or consult with a qualified notary.

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