1. The document is complete and unsigned
No blanks, no "we will fill that in later", and no signature yet. If you have already signed, we may be able to handle it as an acknowledgment, but for a sworn statement you will need a clean copy.
2. Identification is current
Government-issued, with a photo and a signature, and in date. Check the expiry today rather than at the table. If the name on your ID does not match the name on the document, bring whatever connects the two.
3. You know which notarial act you need
Look at the bottom of your document. Is there a notarial certificate? Does it ask you to swear the contents are true (a jurat) or only to confirm the signature is yours (an acknowledgment)?
If there is no certificate, ask the office receiving the document which one they want. A notary is not allowed to choose for you.
4. Witnesses are arranged, if the document needs them
Deeds and powers of attorney in Florida typically need two witnesses. They must be adults who are not receiving anything under the document, and they need identification too. I do not act as your witness.
5. You have asked the receiving office the right question
One phone call to whoever will receive the document answers nearly everything: do they accept an electronic notarization, do they need an apostille, do they want a translation, and do they have a preferred wording.
Almost every repeated appointment I see comes from skipping that call.
And on the day
Everyone signing should be present, sober, alert and free from pressure. Bring the original document, not a photo of it. If the appointment is at a hospital or a care facility, check their visiting rules first.
Frequently asked questions
- What if my document has no notarial certificate?
- Ask the receiving office which act they require. I can attach the right certificate once you know, but I cannot decide it for you.
- Can I sign at home and bring it in?
- For an acknowledgment, sometimes. For a sworn statement, no: you must sign in front of me.
- Who can be a witness?
- An adult who is not named in the document and does not benefit from it, with valid identification.
- What if I am not sure which document I need?
- That is a question for an attorney or for the office asking you for it. A notary cannot advise on it.