After many years in this business, I’ve heard it all. People come in with some wild ideas about what a notary does and what it all actually means. Some myths are harmless, while others have cost people real time and money. Let’s clear the air and take a deep dive into some of the most common notary myths I have heard in my career.
Myth #1: A Notary Can Notarize Their Own Documents — FALSE. This is a hard no, and it’s not just frowned upon; it is prohibited. A notary cannot notarize any document in which they have a personal interest, and that absolutely includes their own. Why? Because the whole system depends on an impartial witness. The moment I sign and stamp the same document, that impartiality is gone.
Myth #2: Any Notary Can Notarize Anything, Anywhere — FALSE. Notaries are commissioned by their state, which means our authority has geographic limits. Certain documents also have very specific requirements about who can notarize them. Always check before you assume.
Myth #3: A Notary Can Tell You If Your Document Is Legal — FALSE. I can confirm your identity and witness your signature. What I cannot do is tell you whether the contract you’re signing is fair or enforceable.
Myth #4: You Can Notarize a Document Without the Signer Present — FALSE. This is the most dangerous myth on the list. The entire point of notarization is that the signer appears before me so I can verify their identity and confirm they’re signing freely. Anything else isn’t a shortcut, it’s fraud.
Myth #5: Remote Online Notarization Isn’t “Real” — FALSE. RON is fully legal in most U.S. states and growing fast. It’s not a loophole or a workaround. It’s a legitimate, state-regulated process that’s been a game-changer for people with busy schedules or mobility challenges.
Myth #6: A Notary Can Refuse Documents They Disagree With — MOSTLY FALSE. My job is to follow the law, not judge the document. That said, I can legally decline if a signer appears coerced, confused, or if the document is incomplete. Personal opinions don’t count, but protecting a vulnerable signer does.
Myth #7: Notarization and Authentication Are the Same Thing — FALSE. Notarization verifies the signer. Authentication (or Apostille) certifies the notary’s credentials for international use. If your document is going overseas, you likely need both, and assuming one covers the other can cause serious delays.
Myth #8: All Notaries Charge the Same Fees — FALSE. States set maximum fees per notarial act, but costs vary — especially for mobile notaries or loan signing agents handling a full closing package. Always ask for the total cost upfront so there are no surprises.
Myth #9: A Notary Stamp Guarantees Authenticity — FALSE. Stamps can be forged, and commissions can expire. If something feels off about a notarized document you’ve received, verify the notary’s credentials through your state’s Secretary of State office. Don’t skip that step.
Myth #10: Anyone Can Become a Notary Overnight — FALSE. Most states require an application, background check, and sometimes an exam or training course. Once commissioned, we’re held to a real legal and ethical standard. The process exists to protect the public — and it should stay that way.
Have a question that didn’t make the list? Drop it in the comments. I’m always happy to talk notary.
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