Getting a Document Notarized

Documents requiring notarization often have legal or personal significance. By knowing what to expect and how to confirm the notarial ceremony is completed properly, you can save yourself time, frustration, and money.

Remember:

RI Notaries are not required to be attorneys. Do not go to a notary expecting or requesting legal advice.

Be Prepared

  • Have proper identification ready.
  • Make sure the document you are having notarized is complete.
  • Be sure you understand what the document is and are willing to sign it.
  • Research the types of notarial acts before you visit the notary and confirm with the document drafter or receiver what type of notarization they require. The notary public cannot make this decision for you.

Locate a Notary

  • Search for a notary near you using the Notary Public Lookup or visit your local post office, bank, or library.

The Notarial Ceremony

  • All signers must be in the notary’s presence.
  • The notary will confirm your identity and screen you to ensure you understand the document and are willing to sign it.
  • Notaries may not choose which notarial act to perform or fill in any part of the document on your behalf except for the notarial certificate.
  • You should be aware that notaries may charge a fee of up to $25 per notarial act. The notary should disclose this fee prior to notarizing your document.

A notarial act includes a completed notarial certificate, notary’s signature, identification number, commission expiration date and inked notary stamp. If any of therse pieces are missing, the receiver of the document may choose to reject the document.