Who Needs a Notary?
Published February 9, 2023 · Updated May 21, 2026
You need a notary when a document requires a neutral third party to verify that the signer is who they claim to be and that they signed willingly. Notarization adds a layer of trust that courts, lenders, and government agencies rely on. Here are the most common situations where you will need one.
Real Estate Transactions
Buying or refinancing a home is the most common reason people need a notary. Mortgages, deeds of trust, grant deeds, and quitclaim deeds all require notarization before the county recorder will accept them. If you are the borrower, the notary comes to you (often through a signing agent hired by the title company), walks you through the loan documents, and notarizes the required signatures.
Powers of Attorney
A power of attorney (POA) gives someone else the authority to act on your behalf. Because this is a powerful legal document, most states require it to be notarized before it will be accepted by banks, hospitals, and other institutions. Both general and durable powers of attorney typically need notarization.
Affidavits and Sworn Statements
An affidavit is a written statement made under oath. Courts, government agencies, and businesses use them for everything from small claims cases to immigration filings. The notary administers the oath and completes a jurat certificate confirming the signer swore the contents were true.
Wills and Estate Planning
Not all wills require notarization, but many do, especially self-proving wills that include a notarized affidavit from the witnesses. Living wills and healthcare directives may also require notarization depending on your state. Estate planning attorneys typically handle the notarization as part of their service.
Business Documents
- Corporate resolutions and meeting minutes
- Partnership agreements
- Business contracts that require notarized signatures
- Franchise agreements
- Trademark and patent applications
Immigration Documents
Affidavits of support (Form I-864), sponsorship letters, and other immigration filings often require notarization. Immigration attorneys usually direct clients to a notary for these.
Where to Find a Notary
| Location | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Your bank or credit union | Often free for customers | Walk in with ID during business hours |
| UPS Store / FedEx Office | $5–$15 per signature | No appointment needed, open weekends |
| Public library | Free (if available) | Call ahead to check |
| Mobile notary | $25–$75 total (travel + notary fee) | Comes to you, evenings and weekends |
| Remote online (RON) | $25–$50 per document | Over video call, 24/7 availability |
What to Bring
- Valid photo ID. Driver’s license, passport, or state-issued ID.
- The unsigned document. Do not sign until the notary tells you to.
- Any required witnesses (if the document needs them and the notary does not provide them).
- Payment. Know the fee before you arrive.
When You Do Not Need a Notary
Most everyday documents do not require notarization. Contracts between two parties, employment agreements, lease agreements, and personal letters do not typically need a notary. If a document does not have a notarial certificate printed on it and no one has asked you to have it notarized, you probably do not need one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a notary to sign a contract?
Usually no. Most contracts are valid with just the signatures of the parties involved. A notary is needed when a law or institution specifically requires notarization (like real estate deeds, powers of attorney, and affidavits).
Can a notary refuse to notarize my document?
Yes. A notary can refuse if they cannot verify your identity, if you appear to be under duress or not of sound mind, if the document is blank or incomplete, or if the notary has a conflict of interest.
How much does a notarization cost?
Each state sets a maximum fee. Common rates range from $2 to $15 per notarial act. Mobile notaries add a travel fee. Banks often provide the service free for account holders.
Updated May 2026.
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