You’ve filled out your form, printed it, and booked your appointment—only to realize there’s a typo or missing information. Don’t panic! Mistakes happen more often than you’d think. But before meeting your notary, it’s important to understand what you can fix, what your notary can’t change, and how to prevent delays.
Here’s a simple guide on how to handle document errors correctly before notarization.
1. Review Your Document Carefully Before the Appointment
Before heading to your notary, take a few minutes to double-check:
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All names are spelled correctly.
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Dates are consistent throughout the document.
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Addresses, numbers, or legal descriptions are accurate.
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There are no blank spaces or missing pages.
Tip: If your document was prepared by another party (like a lender, attorney, or agency), confirm with them before making any edits yourself.
2. Never Make Corrections After Signing
Once a document has been signed and sealed, it becomes legally binding. Altering it afterward—even to fix a small typo—can invalidate the notarization.
If you notice an error after signing but before notarization, inform your notary right away. They’ll guide you on whether a new copy is needed or if it can be corrected properly.
3. Know What a Notary Can and Cannot Correct
A notary public verifies identity and witnesses signatures—they don’t edit or interpret your documents.
✅ A notary can:
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Refuse to notarize if information is incomplete or altered.
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Allow you to make small, initialed corrections before signing.
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Guide you to reprint or redo a document that’s unclear or invalid.
🚫 A notary cannot:
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Fill in missing information for you.
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Correct spelling, numbers, or content errors.
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Provide legal advice on what your document “should” say.
4. How to Correct Small Errors Properly
If the mistake is minor—like a typo—you can usually correct it before signing by:
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Drawing a single line through the error (no scribbling).
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Writing the correct word or number neatly above it.
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Initialing and dating next to the correction.
The notary will observe and ensure the correction is made before notarization begins.
5. When You Should Start Over
For serious errors—like missing pages, incorrect legal descriptions, or unsigned fields—it’s best to reprint or request a clean copy. It may delay the process slightly, but it protects your document’s validity and your peace of mind.
6. Preventing Future Mistakes
To avoid future stress:
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Review your documents in advance.
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Ask the issuer or attorney to double-check all details.
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Don’t rush your signing.
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Bring all necessary IDs and supporting materials to your appointment.
Conclusion
Mistakes don’t have to ruin your notarization. By taking time to review your paperwork, communicating openly with your notary, and knowing what can be fixed safely, you’ll save time, money, and frustration.
At Looking Glass Runners Notary, we’re here to make the process smooth and stress-free—every time.
