Notary Blog
Expert guides, tips, and advice for notaries public.
Can a Notary Notarize Their Own Document?
No — a notary can never notarize their own signature or a document they have an interest in. Learn why, the penalties, and what to do instead.
Can a Notary Prepare Legal Documents?
No — preparing legal documents is the unauthorized practice of law for a notary. Learn where the line is and what you may legally do instead.
Can a Notary Refuse Service Based on Document Content?
A notary cannot refuse service over a document's content — but must refuse blanks, suspected fraud, and unlawful requests. Learn the line.
Can You Notarize a Document in a Foreign Language?
Yes, in most states you can notarize a document in a foreign language — if the certificate is in English and you can communicate directly with the signer.
10 Common Notary Mistakes That Can Get You Sued
Ten notary mistakes that invite lawsuits — no-show signers, sloppy ID checks, family conflicts of interest — and the habits that protect you.
Credible Witnesses: When and How to Use Them
Learn when and how to identify a signer with credible witnesses: the one-vs-two rule, screening for interest, and the journal entries that protect you.
Does a Notary Need to Read the Document Out Loud?
No, a notary does not read documents out loud. Learn what you must scan for instead — blank spaces, missing pages, certificate wording — and when to walk away.
How Much Does a Notary Public Make?
If you're considering becoming a notary public, you've probably wondered what the financial return actually looks like. Here is the honest breakdown for 2026.
How to Add a Loose Notary Certificate to a Document
Learn when and how to attach a loose notary certificate: choosing the right act, avoiding floating certificates, and the stapling rules recorders expect.
How to Administer an Oath for a Jurat
Learn how to administer an oath for a jurat: exact wording for oaths and affirmations, why the verbal response matters, and the mistakes that void a jurat.
How to Affix a Notary Seal or Stamp
Learn how to affix a notary seal or stamp correctly: placement rules, ink color by state, fixing bad impressions, and when re-stamping is illegal.
How to Become a Fingerprinting Notary
If you are looking for a way to stand out in the crowded notary market and boost your income, becoming a fingerprinting notary might be the perfect career move.