BY ALISON DOYLE - Updated on September 19, 2020

What Is a Notary?

A notary manages and witnesses signatures on official documents. They verify the identity of the individuals signing the documents and check to make sure they're signing without any pressure or intimidation. They are impartial and their work helps to prevent fraud.

How a Notary Works

While the work of a notary might seem simple, they actually perform a range of duties, including:

• Witnessing legally binding signatures on documents
• Affirming the state of mind of all signees
• Identifying fraud or coercion
• Completing the notarial certificate on all documents
• Verifying the identification of contract participants
• Being present when documents are signed; which may include traveling
• Administering oaths
• Handling affidavits, contracts, loan documents, marriage certificates, and other legal documents
• Bearing witness to items within a safe deposit box or the equivalent
• Maintaining a notary journal
• Scheduling related appointments