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Be Prepared for Your Signing

Notaries are public servants commissioned by the State of Michigan.  We are bound by the Law of Notarial Acts and all notary services are provided within these laws.  To make sure your signing goes as smoothly as possible, follow these simple guidelines.

01    Proper Identification

A Notary Public's job is to certify that the person(s) signing a document in front of them has produced the proper legal identification proving that they are said person.

  • Before we begin you must present a valid / unexpired passport, driver's license, U.S. military ID, or state ID.    

  • The name on the document you are signing must match the name on your ID.  If your middle name is on the document, make sure it's on your ID as well.

Note:  The State of Michigan does not allow notaries to accept expired ID.

02  Complete Document

Notaries cannot prepare documents or give legal advice.  Therefore, please make sure that you have reviewed and understand your document, have a complete document printed and that required blanks are filled in prior to the notary's arrival.  

03   Document Signature

You will be asked to sign your document in front of the notary after your identity has been verified.  Please do not sign your document prior to the notary's arrival.   

04  Signer Awareness

A notary acts as an impartial third-party witness to the signature of a document AND ensures that all parties signing do so of their own free will.  The signer will be asked if they are familiar with the document and are aware of what they are signing.  The signer cannot be under heavy medication and must be able to give consent.  

05  Witness Requirements

Please review your document to see if witnesses are required along with the notarization.  You may see this on some deeds, medical directives, wills, or powers of attorney.  Please arrange to have the needed witnesses present at the time of notarization.  Witnesses usually need to be over 18 years old and not related to the signer.  Please refer to your attorney for exact requirements. 

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