Navigating the world of legal documents often requires the services of a notary public. But if you’re asking yourself, “Where Do I Go To Get A Notary?”, you’re not alone. Finding a notary public can seem daunting, but it’s actually quite straightforward once you know where to look. This guide will walk you through the common places to find a notary, the types of services they offer, and what to expect when you need your documents notarized.
Common Places to Find a Notary Public
Finding a notary public is easier than you might think. Many institutions and businesses employ notaries as part of their regular services. Here are some of the most common places you can find a notary:
Banks and Credit Unions
Banks and credit unions are perhaps the most accessible locations for notary services. Many branches offer free notary services to their customers. It’s always a good idea to call ahead to confirm availability and whether you need to be a customer to utilize their notary services. Even if you are not a customer, some banks may still provide notary services for a small fee.
Real Estate Offices
Real estate transactions invariably require notarization, so real estate offices often have notaries on staff. While their primary focus is on clients involved in real estate deals, some offices may offer notary services to the general public, sometimes for a fee. If you are dealing with property documents, a real estate office could be a convenient option.
Law Firms
Similar to real estate, legal documents frequently need notarization. Law firms often employ notaries to assist with their legal processes. While less likely to offer walk-in notary services to the public, if you have an existing relationship with a law firm or are dealing with legal paperwork, they might be able to provide notary services.
Courthouses and Government Buildings
Government institutions, particularly courthouses, often have notaries public available. This is especially true for documents related to court proceedings or government filings. Clerk of Court offices, for instance, often provide notary services. Fees may vary depending on the location and the type of document.
Shipping and Business Centers
Businesses like UPS Store and FedEx Office often provide notary services for a fee. These locations are convenient for those who need to notarize and ship documents in one go. It’s advisable to check their websites or call ahead to confirm notary availability and pricing.
Insurance Agencies
Certain insurance documents may require notarization, and some insurance agencies have notaries on staff for client convenience. If you’re dealing with insurance-related paperwork, check with your insurance agent to see if they offer notary services.
Online Notary Services
In recent years, online notary services have emerged, offering a convenient way to get documents notarized remotely. These services utilize video conferencing technology to verify your identity and witness your signature online. This can be a particularly useful option for those with mobility issues or who need notarization outside of regular business hours. However, it’s important to ensure that online notarization is legally recognized in your jurisdiction and for the specific document you need notarized.
Mobile Notary Services
Mobile notaries are notaries public who travel to your location, whether it’s your home, office, or another convenient spot. This service is particularly helpful for individuals with busy schedules or those who cannot easily travel to a notary’s office. Mobile notaries typically charge a travel fee in addition to their standard notary fees.
What to Expect When Getting a Document Notarized
Once you’ve found a notary, it’s important to be prepared for the notarization process. Here’s what you generally need to bring and expect:
- Valid Photo Identification: You will need to present a current, government-issued photo ID to prove your identity. Acceptable forms of ID typically include a driver’s license, passport, or state-issued identification card.
- The Document to be Notarized: Do not sign the document beforehand. You must sign it in the presence of the notary public.
- All Signers Present: If the document requires multiple signatures, all signers must be present at the same time before the notary.
- Payment: Be prepared to pay a fee for notary services, especially at businesses like shipping centers or mobile notary services. Fees vary by state and service provider. Banks and credit unions may offer free services to customers.
- Witnesses (If Required): In some cases, depending on the document and state laws, you may need to bring witnesses. The notary public cannot act as a witness. If witnesses are required, they must also present valid photo identification.
Types of Documents That May Require Notarization
Not all documents need to be notarized, but many significant legal and financial documents do. Here are some common types of documents that often require notarization:
- Real Estate Documents: Deeds, mortgages, and other property transfer documents.
- Powers of Attorney: Documents granting someone else legal authority to act on your behalf.
- Wills and Trusts: To ensure their legal validity and prevent fraud.
- Affidavits and Oaths: Sworn statements of fact used in legal proceedings.
- Contracts: Certain contracts, especially those involving significant transactions.
- Medical Directives: Living wills and healthcare proxies.
- International Documents: Documents intended for use in other countries may require notarization and potentially an apostille or certification.
Understanding Apostilles and Certifications
If you need to submit documents to another country, you might encounter the terms “apostille” or “certification”. These are processes that further authenticate a notary’s signature for international use.
- Apostille: Used for documents going to countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention. It simplifies the authentication process to a single step.
- Certification (or Legalization): Required for documents going to countries not part of the Hague Convention. It involves a multi-step process, often requiring certification from the Clerk of the Court and the Secretary of State, and potentially the U.S. Department of State and the embassy or consulate of the destination country.
To obtain an apostille or certification, you typically need to contact the Secretary of State’s office in the state where the notary is commissioned. The exact procedure and requirements can vary by state, so it’s best to consult your Secretary of State’s website for detailed information.
Conclusion
Finding a notary public doesn’t have to be a mystery. By knowing where to look – banks, real estate offices, courthouses, shipping centers, online services, and mobile notaries – you can easily access notary services when you need them. Remember to bring valid identification, the unsigned document, and be prepared to pay any applicable fees. Understanding the types of documents that require notarization and the processes for international document authentication will further streamline your experience. With this guide, you can confidently answer the question “where do I go to get a notary?” and ensure your important documents are properly notarized.
Please note: Notary laws and regulations can vary by jurisdiction. This guide provides general information and it’s always recommended to verify specific requirements with your local authorities or a legal professional.
