Affidavit Notarization: Everything You Need to Know

Disclaimer: This article provides general educational information about notarization processes and is not legal advice. Notarization requirements vary by state and document type. For specific guidance, consult with a notary public or attorney in your jurisdiction.

Notarization is typically the final step in creating a legally valid affidavit. Here's what you need to know about the notarization process.

What is Notarization?

Notarization is the official process where a notary public:

1. Verifies your identity
2. Watches you sign the document
3. Confirms you're signing willingly and knowingly
4. Completes the notarial certificate
5. Applies their official seal

Why Affidavits Must Be Notarized

An affidavit without notarization is just a piece of paper. Notarization:

• Makes the document legally valid
• Provides evidence you signed it
• Confirms your identity
• Adds legal weight to your statements
• Protects against fraud

What to Bring to the Notary

You'll need:

1. Valid Photo ID

   • Driver's license
   • Passport
   • State ID card
   • Military ID

2. Unsigned Affidavit

   • DO NOT sign before meeting the notary
   • Bring all pages
   • Have it printed and ready

3. Payment (if required)

   • Cash or card (check with notary)
   • Costs typically $5-$15 per signature

Where to Find a Notary

Free or Low-Cost Options:

• Your bank - Often free for customers
• Credit union - Usually free for members
• Employer - Some workplaces have notaries on staff
• Public library - Some offer free notary services

Paid Options:

• UPS Store - Widely available, ~$10-$15
• FedEx Office - Similar to UPS
• Notary signing services - Mobile notaries come to you
• Online notary - Remote notarization (if state allows)

State-Specific Notary Requirements

Note: Notary requirements and fees change periodically. The information below reflects general requirements as of 2025. Always verify current requirements with your state's notary regulatory body.

Texas

• Maximum statutory fee: $6 per signature (as of 2025)
• Notaries typically use seal or stamp
• Jurat commonly required for affidavits
• ID must be current (not expired)

Utah

• Maximum statutory fee: $10 per signature (as of 2025)
• Notary seal typically required
• Multiple types of acceptable ID
• Remote online notarization (RON) authorized

Arizona

• Maximum statutory fee: $10 per signature (as of 2025)
• Notary seal or stamp typically required
• Remote online notarization (RON) authorized
• ID must be government-issued

The Notarization Process

Step 1: Present your ID to the notary

Step 2: Notary verifies your identity

Step 3: Notary asks if you understand the document

Step 4: Notary confirms you're signing willingly

Step 5: You sign in notary's presence

Step 6: Notary completes their section

Step 7: Notary applies seal and signs

Step 8: You receive notarized document

Remote Online Notarization (RON)

Some states allow online notarization via video call:

Benefits:

• Convenient - do it from home
• Often available 24/7
• No travel required
• Same legal validity

States Allowing RON:

• Utah - fully authorized
• Arizona - fully authorized
• Texas - authorized (with restrictions)

How RON Works:

1. Upload ID and affidavit to platform
2. Schedule video call with notary
3. Verify identity via video
4. Sign electronically while on video
5. Notary completes and emails document

Common Notarization Mistakes

❌ Signing before meeting the notary ❌ Using expired ID ❌ Not bringing all pages of document ❌ Leaving notary section blank ❌ Rushing without reading carefully

How Much Does Notarization Cost?

| Service | Typical Cost | |---------|-------------| | Bank (customer) | Free | | Credit union | Free | | UPS/FedEx | $10-$15 | | Mobile notary | $25-$100 | | Online notary | $25-$50 |

After Notarization

Once notarized:

• Make copies for your records
• File original with court or agency
• Keep copy in safe place
• Cannot be altered or changed
• Any changes require new affidavit

discover.legal Makes It Easy

We provide:

• Pre-formatted affidavits ready for notarization
• Notary checklist included
• State-specific requirements built-in
• Tips for finding local notaries
• Professional formatting courts accept

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