Notary Basics

What happens when the name on a signer's identification doesn't exactly match the name on the document? Name discrepancies are common, but the answer isn't always as simple as requiring an exact match. Learn what Notaries should consider—and why your state's identification laws matter.

A Signature/Name Affidavit can help document the different names a signer may have used—but can a Notary rely on it to establish the signer's identity? Understanding the difference between a lender's identification concerns and a Notary's legal identification requirements is essential.

Confused about the difference between a Medallion Signature Guarantee and a notarization? Learn what a Medallion Signature Guarantee is, who can provide one, and why Notaries Public cannot substitute a notarial act for this specialized financial service.

What does an Ombudsman have to do with notarizing an Advance Directive? For Notaries working in hospitals, nursing homes, and other care facilities, the answer may be more important than you think. Learn why certain documents can have special witness requirements—and why Notaries should know when an Ombudsman or patient advocate may be involved.

We’re often taught not to read a signer’s private documents—but does that mean we should only look at the notarial certificate? Sometimes important language within the document itself can signal that a Notary needs to stop, look a little closer, and make sure the requested notarial act is clear.

Ever wondered what the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (GLBA) has to do with you as a Notary Signing Agent? When you're handling loan documents filled with sensitive borrower information, understanding how that information should be protected matters.

When does a document need a witness—and can the Notary be one of them? The word “witness” can mean several very different things in the notarial world. In this article we break down document witnesses, Signature Witnessing, subscribing witnesses, credible witnesses, and some of the situations Notaries may encounter.