What Happens If the Name on Your ID Doesn’t Exactly Match the Document?
One of the most common reasons a notarization is delayed or refused is a name mismatch between a signer’s ID and the document. Even small differences — like a missing middle name or a maiden name — can cause problems, especially for court, real estate, or financial documents. Here’s why name matching matters, what differences […]
Why Some Notaries Refuse Certain Documents — Even When They Look Complete
It can be confusing — and frustrating — when a document looks fully prepared, yet a notary still refuses to notarize it. Many clients assume refusal means the notary is being difficult or overly cautious. In reality, notaries are legally required to refuse service in specific situations, even when the document appears complete on the […]
What Does “Personally Known to the Notary” Mean?
You may have seen the phrase “personally known to the notary” on notarial certificates or in state notary laws. Many clients assume it means the notary can skip the ID check if they recognize the signer — but that isn’t always true. The meaning and legality of “personal knowledge” vary by state, and even where […]
Do Notaries Verify Your Signature Style — Or Just Your ID?
Many clients wonder whether notaries look closely at how you sign your name — or if they only care about your ID. It’s a great question because signatures don’t always look the same, especially when people sign quickly, nervously, or on a digital screen. So here’s the truth:👉 Notaries verify your ID — not your […]
Why Your Notarized Document Was Rejected (And How to Fix It)
Introduction It’s frustrating to hear that a document you already notarized has been rejected. Many clients assume notarization guarantees acceptance — but notarization is only one part of the process. Courts, lenders, title companies, and government agencies have strict requirements, and even small mistakes can cause rejection. The good news? Most notarization rejections are fixable. […]
What Happens After a Document Is Notarized?
Most people know what a notary does during a signing — verify identity, witness a signature, and apply a seal. But many clients don’t know what happens after their document is notarized. Depending on the document type, notarization may be only the first step in a longer legal process. Some documents go to the county […]
Why Notaries Record Information in a Journal
A notary journal is one of the most important tools a notary uses — even in states where it is not required by law. Whether a notarization is done in person or online, keeping accurate records helps protect the signer, the notary, and the integrity of the document. Here’s why notaries maintain journals and why […]
Can a Notary Notarize for Family Members?
Clients often ask one of the most common notary questions:“Can a notary notarize a document for a family member?” The answer depends on state law, but even in states where it may be technically allowed, it is almost always discouraged because of conflict-of-interest concerns. Notaries must stay neutral — and notarizing for family members can […]
Notarizing Wills & Trusts: State-by-State Rules
Wills and trusts are some of the most sensitive estate planning documents people sign. But here’s a common misconception: 👉 Not every state allows wills to be notarized.👉 Not every state requires notarization for validity.👉 Trusts and wills follow completely different rules. This guide breaks down state-by-state rules, explains when notarization is optional, required, or […]