Apostille vs. Notarization: What’s the Difference & When Do You Need Each?
If you need to get a document notarized or apostilled, you might be wondering: What’s the difference? Many people assume they are the same thing, but they serve completely different purposes.
Understanding whether you need a notary public or an apostille (or both) can save you time, money, and frustration. Let’s break it down.
What Is Notarization?
A notarization is a legal process where a notary public verifies the identity of a signer and ensures they are signing a document willingly and knowingly.
✔ Used for domestic documents ✔ Confirms the identity of the signer ✔ Requires a valid government-issued ID ✔ Does not make a document legally valid—only ensures proper signing
🔹 Common Documents That Need a Notary:
Power of Attorney
Wills & Trusts
Real Estate Documents (some notaries cannot notarize these in Indiana)
Affidavits
Business Contracts
Medical Authorization Forms
What Is an Apostille?
An apostille is an official certification that authenticates the legitimacy of a document so it can be used internationally. It is issued by the Indiana Secretary of State for state-level documents and by the U.S. Department of State for federal documents.
✔ Required for international use ✔ Confirms a document’s authenticity and official status ✔ Issued by a government authority, not a notary ✔ Applies only to countries in the Hague Apostille Convention
🔹 Common Documents That Need an Apostille:
Birth, Marriage, and Death Certificates
Educational Diplomas & Transcripts
FBI Background Checks
Business Incorporation Documents
Power of Attorney (for international use)
Adoption & Immigration Papers
Do You Need Both a Notary & an Apostille?
Sometimes! Certain documents need to be notarized first before they can receive an apostille.
✔ Example: If you’re using a Power of Attorney in another country, it must first be notarized and then apostilled. ✔ Exception: Some state-issued documents (like birth certificates) do not require notarization before apostille processing.
This is why working with an experienced mobile notary and apostille service is crucial—we ensure you meet every requirement the first time and avoid costly mistakes.
Which One Do You Need?
🔹 If your document is staying in the U.S. → You need a notarization.
🔹 If your document is going to another country → You likely need an apostille.
🔹 If your document must be signed before being apostilled → You need both.
If you’re not sure, don’t stress—I can help you figure it out!
Need Notary or Apostille Services? Let’s Get It Done Today!
As an experienced Indiana mobile notary and apostille agent, I can notarize, obtain apostilles, and even hand-deliver documents for a fast, stress-free experience.
✔ Same-day mobile notary & apostille services ✔ No outsourcing—I handle everything personally ✔ Guaranteed accurate processing so your documents are accepted without issue
✨ Don’t waste time trying to figure it out—let me take care of it for you! Book an Appointment Now
