One of the biggest mistakes people make is signing their document before meeting with the notary. In most cases, the notary must witness the signature. If the document is already signed, the notary may not be able to notarize it.
This can cause delays if you are dealing with:
- Loan documents
- Power of attorney forms
- Affidavits
- Legal agreements
How to avoid it:
Do not sign anything until the notary tells you to. If you are unsure, ask first.
Mistake #2: Bringing the Wrong Type of Identification
Notaries are required by law to verify your identity. If your ID does not meet state requirements, the notary must refuse the service.
Common ID problems include:
- Expired driver’s licenses
- Photocopies instead of originals
- IDs without a photo or signature
- Damage that makes the ID unreadable
How to avoid it:
Bring a valid, government-issued photo ID. Make sure it is current and in good condition.
Mistake #3: Using Incomplete or Blank Documents
A notary cannot notarize a document that is missing information. Blank spaces can raise red flags and may invalidate the notarization.
This mistake often causes delays in:
- Real estate transactions
- Court filings
- Business documents
How to avoid it:
Review your document carefully before your appointment. Fill in all required sections, except for the signature if the notary needs to witness it.
Mistake #4: Choosing the Wrong Type of Notarization
There are different types of notarizations, such as acknowledgments and jurats. Using the wrong one can result in a rejected document.
This is especially common with:
- Legal filings
- Financial documents
- Out-of-state paperwork
How to avoid it:
If the document does not clearly state what type of notarization is required, ask the organization requesting the document. A professional notary can also help explain the difference.
Mistake #5: Missing Required Signers
Some documents require more than one person to be present. If even one signer is missing, the notarization cannot be completed.
This mistake often happens with:
- Joint loan documents
- Real estate paperwork
- Family legal forms
How to avoid it:
Confirm ahead of time who must be present. Everyone required should bring proper identification.
Mistake #6: Waiting Until the Last Minute
Many people assume notary services are always available. Banks may have limited hours. Other locations may require appointments or turn people away if they are too busy.
Waiting too long can lead to missed deadlines for:
- Loan closings
- Court filings
- Travel documents
How to avoid it:
Plan ahead and look for a reliable notary near me that offers convenient hours and professional service.
Mistake #7: Mailing Notarized Documents Incorrectly
Even after a document is notarized, mistakes can still happen. Mailing original notarized documents without protection or tracking can result in lost paperwork.
How to avoid it:
Use secure mailing options and tracking. If the document is time-sensitive, ask about expedited shipping.
Why Professional Notary Services Matter
Notary errors can cost time, money, and peace of mind. Working with experienced professionals helps reduce the risk of document rejection. A knowledgeable notary understands state laws, proper procedures, and how to handle different document types.
At NB Mailboxes, notary services are handled with care and attention to detail. Whether you are finalizing legal paperwork, preparing travel documents, or completing business forms, having everything done correctly the first time makes all the difference.
Final Thoughts
Notary mistakes are common, but they are also preventable. By knowing what to expect and choosing a dependable notary service, you can avoid unnecessary delays and stress.
Before your next appointment, double-check your documents, bring valid identification, and make sure all required parties are present. A little preparation can save you a lot of time—and help ensure your documents are accepted without issue.
