Notary Frequently Asked Questions

Basic Questions

What does a notary public do?

A notary public verifies the identity of the signer, confirms the signer is willing and aware, and observes the signing of certain documents. A notary may also administer oaths or affirmations when required.

After the document is signed, the notary completes the notarial certificate and applies an official seal when required.

Do I need an appointment?

Yes. Mobile notary services are provided by appointment so we can meet at a time and location that works for everyone.

Do I need to bring identification?

Yes. Every signer must present a current government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license, passport, state ID, or military ID.

Phone images of IDs, photocopies, credit cards, library cards, Social Security cards, and other non-photo identification cannot be accepted for notarization.

What if my ID is expired?

Expired identification cannot be accepted. Even if the information on the ID is still accurate, Kentucky notary rules require a current, valid government-issued photo ID. Once an ID has expired, it is legally considered invalid for notarization.

For I-9 purposes, different identification rules may apply. See the I-9 questions section below.

Can I sign the document in advance?

STOP!!   Please don't!    Most documents must be signed in the presence of the notary, and signing in advance may make the document unusable.

What if my document requires witnesses?

Some documents require one or more witnesses. We are unable to provide witnesses. If witnesses are required, please arrange for them before the appointment. Witnesses must also bring valid photo identification, and should not be a party to, or benefit from, the document.

Is a witness obligated to anything?

No. A witness is only confirming that they observed the document being signed. Being a witness does not make them responsible for the document, its contents, or anything that happens afterward. A witness may be asked to take an oath that they observed the signing, but this does not create any obligation beyond confirming that they witnessed the signing.

Why might the notary ask for a thumbprint?

In some situations, the notary may request a thumbprint as an added fraud-prevention measure. It is not required for every notarization. However, it may be appropriate for certain documents where financial risk is higher, such as vehicle title transfers or powers of attorney.

Appointments and Locations

Where can we meet for the notarization?

Mobile notary appointments can take place at homes, offices, hospitals, nursing homes, coffee shops, restaurants, libraries, and other convenient locations.

See the Services page for more details about common and special meeting locations.

Do you travel to hospitals or nursing homes?

Yes. Mobile notary services are often requested in hospitals, assisted living facilities, rehabilitation centers, and other care facilities when travel is difficult or impossible.

Appointments can usually be arranged directly at the facility, but it is important that the signer is aware of the document being signed, can communicate their intent, and has valid identification available.

Can you meet at a jail or detention facility?

Yes, when permitted by the facility and subject to their rules. Some correctional facilities require advance scheduling or have specific visiting hours. Check with the facility first, and make sure the inmate has access to valid identification or that the required identification can be brought to the facility.

What areas do you serve?

Appointments are available in Madisonville, Hopkins County, and surrounding areas throughout Western Kentucky.

Where can I request online notarizations from?

Anywhere! Online notarizations can be requested from anywhere. You can be anywhere. Kentucky only requires that the notary must be located in Kentucky when the notarial act is performed.
Please read the Online Notary FAQ page for more details.

Documents and Requirements

What documents can be notarized?

Many types of documents can be notarized, including vehicle title transfers, powers of attorney, affidavits, contracts, financial documents, school forms, travel consent forms, and more.

See the Services page for a more detailed list.

How do I prepare for a notary appointment?

Our Prepare page is a detailed guide explaining identification, witness, and document requirements. To avoid delays or cancellations, review that guide carefully before your appointment.

Can a notary give legal advice or tell me which notarization type I need?

No. A notary public cannot provide legal advice or explain the legal meaning or effect of a document. If you are unsure what you need, check with the person or organization requesting the document, or with an attorney.

In most cases, the required notarization type is already included in the document.

If a document does not include a notarial certificate, or if there is a question about the type, the notary may explain the general differences between common notarizations, such as acknowledgments and jurats. However, the signer must choose the notarization type or confirm it with the document requestor.

Our Prepare page explains this in more detail.

I-9 Questions

Can you help with an I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification form?

Yes. In many cases a notary may act as an Authorized Representative for an employer to complete Section 2, the in-person identity verification portion of the I-9 form. The employee should complete Section 1 before the appointment, unless the employer gives different instructions.

This is not a notarization and doesn't include background checks, employment screening, or other hiring-related services beyond the identity verification required for the I-9 form.

What identification do I need for I-9 verification?

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) sets ID requirements. Documents that are not valid for notarization may still be acceptable for I-9 verification. Please consult the USCIS official document requirements page. Click here.