Many types of documents need to be notarized to make them official and protect against fraud. But which documents need to be notarized, and why? In this post, we’ll explain what it means to have a document notarized, who is authorized to do it, and which types of contracts most often require notarization.
What Does ‘Notarized’ Mean?
A document is notarized when a licensed notary public witnesses the signing and verifies the identity of the signer(s). The notary ensures the signers understand what they’re signing and that they’re doing so willingly, free from coercion. After verifying these things, the notary applies an official seal or stamp to the document, certifying that it is authentic.
Who Can Notarize a Document?
Only a notary public, a professional commissioned by the state, can notarize a document. Notaries are trained and licensed to confirm people’s identities, administer oaths, and prevent fraud in the signing process. Most banks, currency exchanges, and law offices offer notary services.
What Documents Require Notarization?
Not every document needs a notary’s stamp, but many legal, financial, and real estate documents do. Documents that require notarization generally fall into categories where authenticity and identity verification are crucial. These include:
- Property transfers and deeds
- Certain contracts and agreements
- Powers of attorney
- Trusts and advance directives
- Affidavits and sworn statements
Here’s a breakdown of specific documents you may encounter and whether they typically require notarization, plus guidance on what Illinois law requires.
Does a Will Have to Be Notarized?
Wills generally need to be signed and witnessed by at least two people to be valid, but notarization is not required. However, adding a notarized self-proving affidavit can make the probate process easier.
Does a Living Will Need to Be Notarized?
Living wills may need to be witnessed or notarized, depending on the state. In Illinois, a living will must be signed in the presence of two witnesses, but notarization is not required.
Does a Power of Attorney Need to Be Notarized?
Yes, a power of attorney (POA) usually must be notarized. In Illinois, notarization is required for a power of attorney to be legally binding.
Does a Bill of Sale Need to Be Notarized?
Some states require notarization, especially for vehicles or other titled property. In Illinois, a bill of sale for a vehicle does not need to be notarized, but notarization is recommended for other high-value property to help prevent disputes.
Does an Affidavit Have to Be Notarized?
Affidavits are sworn written statements, and they must be notarized to be legally binding.
Does a Promissory Note Need to Be Notarized?
A promissory note does not need to be notarized, though doing so can help if it’s ever challenged in court.
Do Absentee Ballots Need to Be Notarized?
Some states require notarization for absentee voting. In Illinois, absentee ballots do not need to be notarized.
Does a Lease Agreement Need to Be Notarized?
Leases generally don’t require notarization, unless specified in the lease agreement itself.
Does an Operating Agreement Need to Be Notarized?
Operating agreements for LLCs usually don’t require notarization.
Do Contracts Need to Be Notarized?
Most contracts are valid without notarization, unless otherwise specified.
Do Advance Directives Need to Be Notarized?
Advance directives typically need to be witnessed or notarized. In Illinois, they must be signed in the presence of two witnesses, but notarization is optional.
Does a Codicil Have to Be Notarized?
A codicil amends a will and must usually be signed and witnessed. Although notarization is not legally required, it can provide an extra layer of assurance.
Does a Healthcare POA Need to Be Notarized?
Healthcare powers of attorney often need to be notarized, depending on the state you live in. In Illinois, a healthcare POA must be witnessed, but notarization is not required.
Does an Eviction Notice Have to Be Notarized?
Most eviction notices don’t require notarization, unless a local ordinance explicitly requires it.
Does a Car Title Need to Be Notarized?
Some states require notarization for title transfers. In Illinois, transferring a car title does not require notarization.
Does a DNR Have to Be Notarized?
A Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order may require notarization or witnesses. In Illinois, a DNR requires witness signatures, but notarization is not required.
Does a Quit-Claim Deed Need to Be Notarized?
Quit-claim deeds must be notarized in order to be valid.
Do Divorce Papers Need to Be Notarized?
Some divorce filings require notarization. In Illinois, notarization is often required for settlement agreements and affidavits filed during divorce proceedings.
Does a 5-Day Notice Have to Be Notarized?
Eviction notices, like 5-day notices, typically don’t require notarization.
Does a Child Medical Consent Form Need to Be Notarized?
Notarizing a child’s medical consent form is strongly recommended to avoid disputes. In Illinois, notarization is not required but is highly recommended.
Does a Firearm Bill of Sale Need to Be Notarized?
Some states require notarization for private firearm sales. In Illinois, notarization is not required for a firearm bill of sale, but it can help document the transaction.
Does a Lien Release Need to Be Notarized?
A lien typically requires notarization to remove it from records.
Does a Prenup Need to Be Notarized?
Notarization isn’t always required, but it adds protection. In Illinois, a prenuptial agreement does not need to be notarized, but it is strongly recommended.
Does a Rent-to-Own Contract Need to Be Notarized?
Rent-to-own agreements usually don’t require notarization.
Does a Trust Have to Be Notarized?
Yes, trust documents must always be notarized to be legally enforceable.
Do NDAs Need to Be Notarized?
Non-disclosure agreements usually don’t require notarization and are valid without it.
Get Your Documents Notarized Same-Day
At West Suburban Currency Exchanges, we make notarization fast, simple, and reliable. Whether you’re signing a power of attorney, finalizing a trust, or transferring a title, our experienced team is here to help you get it done right. Visit one of our convenient locations today (no appointment needed!) and take the stress out of getting your documents notarized!
