What Documents Need to Be Notarized Most Often?

If you’ve ever been told, “This document needs to be notarized,” you’re not alone. Many important legal and financial documents require notarization to help prevent fraud and ensure they are properly executed.

Below are the most commonly notarized documents, along with simple explanations of why notarization is required and when you might need a notary.

1. Power of Attorney (POA)

A Power of Attorney allows one person to act on behalf of another for legal, financial, or medical matters. Because of the authority it grants, notarization is usually required.

Common types include:

• General Power of Attorney
  
  

• Durable Power of Attorney
  
  

• Medical Power of Attorney
  
  

Notarization helps confirm that the signer:

• Is who they say they are
  
  

• Is signing willingly
  
  

• Appears to understand the document
  
  

2. Real Estate Documents

Real estate transactions are among the most frequently notarized documents. These often involve large financial commitments, so notarization adds an extra layer of protection.

Common real estate documents include:

• Deeds (Grant Deed, Quitclaim Deed, Warranty Deed)
  
  

• Mortgage and loan documents
  
  

• Refinance and home equity paperwork
  
  

• Seller and buyer affidavits
  
  

Many real estate documents must be notarized to be recorded with the county.

3. Affidavits

An affidavit is a written statement sworn to be true under oath. Notarization is required because the signer is legally affirming the truthfulness of the information.

Common affidavits include:

• Affidavit of Identity
  
  

• Affidavit of Residence
  
  

• Affidavit of Support
  
  

• Small estate affidavits
  
  

The notary administers the oath and verifies the signer’s identity.

4. Travel Consent Forms for Minors

If a child is traveling without one or both parents, a notarized travel consent form is often required—especially for international travel.

These forms help:

• Prevent child abduction
  
  

• Confirm parental permission
  
  

• Avoid travel delays at airports or borders
  
  

Many airlines and foreign countries specifically request notarized consent letters.

5. Wills and Estate Planning Documents

While not all wills require notarization, many estate planning documents do.

Common notarized estate documents include:

• Living trusts
  
  

• Advance healthcare directives
  
  

• Powers of attorney related to estates
  
  

In some cases, notarization can help prevent challenges to the document later.

6. Business Documents

Businesses often need notarization for official or binding paperwork, such as:

• Articles of incorporation
  
  

• Partnership agreements
  
  

• Business contracts
  
  

• Corporate resolutions
  
  

Notarization adds credibility and authenticity to business filings.

7. Vehicle and DMV Documents

Certain motor vehicle transactions require notarization, depending on the state.

Examples include:

• Title transfers
  
  

• Odometer statements
  
  

• Vehicle release of liability forms
  
  

Always check local requirements, as they can vary.

8. Immigration and International Documents

Documents used outside the United States often require notarization and sometimes additional authentication.

Common examples:

• Passport applications for minors
  
  

• Immigration affidavits
  
  

• Foreign adoption paperwork
  
  

• International business documents
  
  

A notary can guide you on next steps, such as apostille services if needed.

Why Notarization Matters

Notarization helps:

• Deter fraud
  
  

• Verify identity
  
  

• Ensure documents are signed voluntarily
  
  

• Protect all parties involved
  
  

It does not make a document “legal” or give legal advice—but it does add an important layer of trust.

How to Prepare for Your Notary Appointment

To avoid delays, make sure you have:

• A valid, government-issued photo ID
  
  

• All signers present
  
  

• Any required witnesses
  
  

• Unsigned documents (sign in front of the notary)
  
  

Need a Notary?

Whether you’re handling real estate paperwork, estate planning, or personal documents, working with an experienced notary ensures everything is done correctly the first time.

Mobile notary services are available for homes, offices, hospitals, and care facilities—making the process easy and convenient.