Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a Notary Public?

A Notary Public is a Public Official appointed by the state government to serve as a trusted impartial witness in the signing of important documents.

2. What is the role of a Notary Public?

The role of a Notary Public is to verify the identity of the signer, ensure their willingness to sign the document, and administer the necessary certificate.

3. Why do I need to have my documents notarized?

Notarization adds an extra layer of authenticity and credibility to a document, ensuring that it is legally binding and recognized by authorities. It is often a requirement for important legal documents. 

4. What types of documents require notarization?

Various documents can require notarization, including deeds, powers of attorney, wills, affidavits, loan documents, and many more.

5. Can a Notary Public provide legal advice?

No, a non-attorney Notary Public is not authorized to provide legal advice. Their role is limited to the notarization process.

6. Can a Notary Public notarize loan documents? 

Only a Notary Signing Agent can notarize loan documents. 

7. What are the qualifications to become a Notary Public?

To become a Notary Public in North Carolina, you must be at least 18 years old, a legal resident of the state, and complete the necessary application and training requirements.

8. How much does it cost to have a document notarized?

In North Carolina, the maximum fee a notary public can charge for notarizing a document is $10 per signature, plus any agreed upon travel fees. Fees vary for loan signings. 

9. Do I need to bring anything with me to have a document notarized?

Yes, you must bring a valid government-issued identification document, such as a driver's license or passport, to prove your identity.

10. Can a Notary Public refuse to notarize a document?

Yes, a Notary Public can refuse to notarize a document if they have a valid reason to believe that the signer is not willing, competent, or lacks proper identification.

11. Can a Notary Public notarize a document in a foreign language?

Yes, a Notary Public can notarize a document in a foreign language as long as they understand the contents of the document, can communicate effectively with the signer, and notarize a certificate printed in English.

12. Can a Notary Public notarize a document for a family member?

Yes, so long as the Notary Public will not benefit from the transaction in any way. It is generally recommended that a notary public avoids notarizing documents for immediate family members to maintain impartiality and avoid conflicts of interest.

13. Can a notary public notarize a document remotely?

Yes, North Carolina allows remote notarization through audio-video communication technology, subject to specific requirements outlined in state laws.

14. What is an acknowledgment?

An acknowledgment is a type of notarial act where the signer acknowledges their signature on the document in the presence of a Notary Public.

15. What is a jurat?

A jurat is a type of notarial act where the signer swears or affirms the truthfulness of the contents of the document in the presence of a Notary Public.

16. Can a Notary Public certify a copy of a document?

No, notaries in North Carolina are not authorized to certify copies of documents. However, they can notarize a sworn statement made by the signer to certify the accuracy of a copy.

17. Can a Notary Public administer an Oath or Affirmation?

Yes, a Notary Public can administer an oath or affirmation when required for the notarization process.

18. Can a Notary Public notarize a document if I don't have identification?

Maybe. A Notary Public must verify the identity of the signer using a valid government-issued identification document, unless the principal signer is personally known to the Notary Public, or a credible witness, personally known to the Notary Public can confirm the identity of the signer. 

19. Can a Notary Public notarize a document if I am physically disabled?

Yes, a Notary Public can accommodate individuals with disabilities, making necessary adjustments to ensure the notarization process is accessible and efficient.

20. Can a Notary Public notarize a document if I am visually impaired?

Yes, a Notary Public can make accommodations for individuals with visual impairments, such as reading the document aloud or using adaptive technology. 

Have another question? Email me at kevin@mccambleynotary.com