What Makes a Notarization Invalid in Court?
A notarized document can still be rejected by a court if the notarization was not performed correctly. Many clients assume that once a notary stamp is applied, the document is automatically valid — but courts closely examine notarizations, especially in disputes. Here’s what can make a notarization invalid in court and how to protect your […]
How Long Is a Notarization Valid? (Surprising Answer)
Many people assume a notarization has an expiration date — but here’s the surprising truth: a notarization itself does not expire. What does expire is often the document, the signer’s authority, or the receiving agency’s acceptance rules. Understanding this distinction can help you avoid unnecessary re-notarizations and rejected documents. The Short Answer A notarization is […]
Why Notaries Sometimes Ask You to Re-Sign a Document
Being asked to re-sign a document can feel frustrating — especially if you’re sure you already signed it correctly. But when a notary asks for a new signature, it’s usually to protect you, not inconvenience you. Here’s why re-signing is sometimes required and how it helps ensure your document is legally valid and accepted. The […]
Are Electronic Signatures the Same as Notarized Signatures?
Many people assume that an electronic signature and a notarized signature are the same — but they are not. While both are legally recognized in the United States, they serve very different purposes and are governed by different laws. Understanding the difference can help you avoid rejected documents, legal delays, and costly re-signing. What Is […]
Can You Use a Credible Witness Instead of an ID?
What happens if you need a document notarized but don’t have a valid government-issued ID? In some cases, the law allows the use of a credible witness to verify your identity — but this option is strictly regulated and not available in every state. Here’s what clients need to know about using a credible witness […]
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 […]
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. […]