1. DO NOT SIGN document until you are in the presence of the notary.
2. COMPLETELY FILL IN ALL BLANK SPACES IN DOCUMENT BEFORE NOTARY ARRIVES. BUT DO NOT SIGN! Cannot Notarize incomplete documents!
3. If you have questions about how to complete the document, contact the person who drafted or requested the document. A Notary Public is unable to provide legal advice or assistance in the drafting and/or completion of documents.
4. Every signer must physically appear, be coherent and present acceptable ID at the time of notarization.
5. Original documents must be presented for all Copy Certification.
6. Vital records (birth, death and marriage) cannot be notarized.
7. Know which Notary Certificate you need. Notary cannot give advice on which one to use.
All identification cards must be ORIGINAL, current or issued within the last 5 years, contain a photo, physical description, signature, and serial number. Identification procedures are mandated by the Massachusetts Secretary of State. The following forms of identification are acceptable:
• Massachusetts Driver’s License/State ID
• Other States Driver’s License
• U.S. Military ID card
• Massachusetts Identification Card/Green Card
• Other State Identification Card/Green Card
• U.S. Passport
• Foreign Passports Stamped by U.S. Customs
• Inmate ID card
If none of the above-mentioned Identification is available, or the name on your ID is different or shorter than what is on the document then you can use:
TWO CREDIBLE WITNESSES – that can swear to the signer’s identity. They must have proper ID, is age 18 or older, know the signer by the name on the document, is not named in the document nor have a financial interest in the transaction described in the document.