What to Bring to Your Notary Appointment ( Real Scenarios Inside!)

You’ve booked a notary—great! Now what?

If you're anything like most of my clients, your next question is, “What do I need to bring to my notary appointment?”

Whether this is your first notarization or your fiftieth, this guide will help you walk in (or welcome me to your doorstep) feeling confident, prepared, and not scrambling for last-minute documents or witnesses.

Why Being Prepared Matters

Not having everything ready can delay your signing, cause stress, or even require a reschedule—and nobody wants that. Especially when you're:

• Trying to finalize a power of attorney for an aging parent

• Sending paperwork abroad for immigration or dual citizenship

• Closing a real estate transaction under a tight deadline

• Wrapping up a last-minute estate plan before travel

These moments are too important to risk a hiccup. So, let’s walk through exactly what you’ll need.

✅ Notary Appointment Essentials: The Ultimate Checklist

1. A Valid Photo ID

You must bring government-issued photo identification that is:

• Unexpired

• Original (no photocopies or screenshots)

• Matches the name on the document

Accepted IDs include:

• State driver’s license or ID

• U.S. passport

• Military ID

• Green card (permanent resident ID)

• Foreign passport (in some cases)

💡 Real Scenario:
A client needed to notarize a real estate document for a property sale in another state. Her ID had just expired—something she didn’t notice until I was at her door. Fortunately, Indiana notarial law allows notaries to accept unexpired identification within 3 years of expiration. So, we did not need to reschedule! Always double-check that your ID is valid before your appointment!

2. Your Document(s)

Bring the document(s) that need to be notarized—but don’t sign them yet unless instructed otherwise.

Here’s what I recommend:

• Make sure the document is completely filled out—no blank spaces (except signature lines)

• Know whether your document needs a jurat (you’ll swear/affirm the contents are true) or an acknowledgment (you’re confirming you signed it voluntarily)

• Have extra copies, if needed—especially for loan signings, powers of attorney, or medical directives

💡 Real Scenario:
I once arrived at a home to notarize a healthcare directive. The client had printed the wrong version of the form for Indiana. We caught it in time and downloaded the correct one together, but it added stress. If you’re not sure if your document is the right one—text me in advance. I’ve seen just about everything!

3. Witnesses (If Required)

Some documents require witnesses in addition to the notary.

Examples:

• Last Will & Testament → typically 2 witnesses

• Durable Power of Attorney → sometimes 1 or 2

• Advance Directive/Living Will → may require 1–2 witnesses depending on state laws

Witnesses must:

• Be at least 18 years old

• Not be named in, related, or have any interest in the document

• Bring valid ID

• Be present at the time of signing

💡 Real Scenario:
A client was finalizing a will for her mother at a hospital. She didn’t realize witnesses were required—and the hospital staff couldn’t legally serve as witnesses. Thankfully, she had two adult children who could meet us there that afternoon. Crisis averted—but it’s always better to plan ahead.

4. Accepted Forms of Payment

Double-check how your notary accepts payment. With me, you’re covered—I accept:

• Cash

• Zelle

• Venmo

• Chime

• Credit/debit card (secure payment link available)

You'll always know your price before we begin. No surprises. No "gotcha" fees.

5. Interpreter (If Needed)

If the signer doesn’t speak English fluently, they’ll need a qualified interpreter present. Notaries are legally required to confirm the signer understands the document and the notarial act.

• I cannot act as both notary and interpreter.

• Interpreters should not be named in the document or have a personal interest in it.

💡 Real Scenario:
A client’s grandmother needed to notarize a financial affidavit but only spoke Spanish. Thankfully, her niece was a fluent interpreter and came with us. We followed proper interpreter procedures, and the notarization was done smoothly and legally.

FAQs That Help You Feel Even More Ready

Q: What if I forgot my ID?
Unfortunately, we can’t proceed without it. Rescheduling is easy, though—I’ll find the next available time that works for you.

Q: What if I’m not sure what kind of notarization I need?
That’s okay! I can help you figure it out. Just don’t sign anything before we meet.

Q: Can you provide a witness?
Yes, I can coordinate witnesses, let me know as soon as possible in order to properly schedule.

Q: Can you notarize something that’s already signed?
Sometimes, yes—but only if the notarial wording and document type allow it. Text me a photo of the doc and I’ll advise you.

Final Thoughts: Prepared Is Powerful

Most people don’t get documents notarized every day—and that’s okay. That’s my job.

My goal is to make sure your notary appointment feels:

• Clear, not confusing

• Empowering, not overwhelming

• Easy, not intimidating

Show up with what you need—and I’ll show up with everything else.

Ready to Book?

📲 Text me your questions
📅 Book a same-day appointment
🕐 I can be there within the hour

✅ Reliable. Friendly. Legally spot-on. Let’s get it done today.