How to Notarize a Photocopy

Notaries public often stamp a document with a raised seal.

Whether you are applying for immigration papers, entering into a business agreement or attempting to lease a property you may need a notary. A notary public is an official who declares documents to be true and accurate and can account for willing signatures on the document. Once notarized, a document is legally binding. To have a photocopy of a document notarized, all you need to do is bring the original document to the notary, but you'll need a round of fresh signatures.

Instructions

1. Locate a notary public. Notaries are public officials that are regulated and licensed by state governments, so you can often find a list of notaries on state government websites. If you have a bank account call your bank; most banks keep a notary on staff.

2. Bring an original document to the notary. Let the notary inspect and photocopy the document.

3. Ask everyone who signed the document, if the original document carried signatures, to meet you at the notary public. Photocopied signatures are not legally binding; fresh signatures are required. If nobody signed the original, then you don't need anyone with you at the notary.

4. Get everyone signing the document to present government-issued photo ID to the notary. Have everyone answer some simple questions and sign the document in front of the notary. If signatures are not required on the photocopy, present your own ID.

5. Pay the notary's fee. Some banks wave notary fees for customers.

References

• Iowa Secretary of State: Frequently Asked Questions

Resources

• California Secretary of State: Notary Public