Notarizing a document might seem straightforward—but when done incorrectly, it can lead to serious legal and financial consequences. Whether you’re finalizing a power of attorney, closing on a home, or preparing an affidavit, every notarial act must meet strict legal standards.
In Massachusetts, many documents are rejected every year due to improper notarization. At Tewksbury Notary, we’ve seen firsthand how simple errors can derail important transactions. This guide outlines the most common mistakes people make during notarization, how to avoid them, and why working with a professional notary public matters—especially in towns like Tewksbury, Lowell, Billerica, Andover, Wilmington, and surrounding communities.
1. Failing to Appear in Person
Massachusetts law requires the signer to appear in person before the notary. That means:
- No scanned or emailed signatures
- No remote instructions unless RON (Remote Online Notarization) is legally authorized
- No “just sign it and send it back later”
The signer must be physically present at the time of notarization. Otherwise, the notary cannot legally perform the act. This is non-negotiable and strictly enforced.
📍Need a legal Notary Public in Tewksbury, MA? We offer mobile and in-office appointments to meet legal requirements without hassle.
2. Using Expired or Improper ID
To complete a notarization, the notary must verify the signer’s identity using a valid government-issued photo ID. Common errors include:
- Presenting expired licenses or passports
- Using school or work IDs
- Forgetting to bring any ID at all
If valid ID is not presented, the notarization cannot proceed. We always remind clients in advance to bring proper identification to avoid last-minute cancellations.
3. Signing Before Meeting the Notary
In Massachusetts, many documents—especially jurats and affidavits—require the signer to sign in front of the notary. Signing in advance can invalidate the notarization.
For example, a client preparing an affidavit about a legal matter must sign only after the notary administers an oath or affirmation. Otherwise, the document may be rejected by a court or agency.
Our team always confirms when and how to sign to ensure full legal compliance.
4. Incomplete or Altered Documents
Another frequent issue is presenting a document that is:
- Missing critical information (names, dates, or sections)
- Containing crossed-out text or handwritten edits
- Printed in multiple parts with unclear formatting
A notary cannot notarize an incomplete or suspicious document. The form must be complete, legible, and free from visible tampering.
We review every document before proceeding and guide clients on corrections without violating notarial standards.
5. Not Knowing Which Type of Notarization Is Required
There are different types of notarizations, including:
- Acknowledgments (verifying the signature)
- Jurats (swearing to the truth of a statement)
- Oaths or affirmations (verbal declarations)
- Copy certifications (limited in Massachusetts)
Not all documents are the same. Some require oaths, while others require just an acknowledgment. Unfortunately, many clients don’t know the difference—and notaries are not allowed to choose for them unless the certificate is clearly pre-printed.
At Tewksbury Notary, we explain the options, but we always advise clients to consult their attorney if unsure of the correct format.
6. Using an Unqualified Notary
It’s easy to assume that anyone with a stamp can handle a notarization. But not all notaries are created equal. Common issues we hear about include:
- Notaries unaware of Massachusetts law
- Notaries who don’t keep a journal or follow ID rules
- Mistakes on the certificate language or seal placement
Hiring an inexperienced or improperly trained notary can result in a document being rejected by a court, title company, bank, or international authority.
We’ve corrected many of these errors for frustrated clients—sometimes at the last minute. That’s why it’s important to work with a professional.
7. Forgetting to Bring Witnesses (When Required)
Some documents—such as wills, living trusts, and healthcare proxies—may require witnesses in addition to a notary.
A common mistake is assuming the notary can also serve as a witness. In many cases, especially where impartiality is required, this is not allowed.
We advise clients in advance if witnesses are needed, and we can provide them upon request for an additional fee.
What Happens If a Notarization Is Done Incorrectly?
An improperly notarized document may be:
- Rejected by courts or agencies
- Delayed in real estate closings
- Challenged in probate
- Considered invalid or unenforceable
In some cases, the notary may also face civil penalties or loss of commission. That’s why precision matters—and why our clients choose us for critical documents.
How We Help You Avoid Mistakes
✅ We verify your ID and document requirements before your appointment
✅ We guide you through the signing process
✅ We keep a legal notary journal of all acts performed
✅ We know the difference between acknowledgments, jurats, and oaths
✅ We show up prepared—whether it’s in-office or via mobile notary service
📍Work with a trusted Notary Public in Lowell, Andover, Billerica, and Tewksbury, MA
Areas We Serve
Our clients are local residents, attorneys, and title companies across:
- Tewksbury
- Lowell
- Billerica
- Wilmington
- Andover
- Chelmsford
- Dracut
Whether you’re notarizing a deed, affidavit, or medical form, we ensure that nothing gets missed.
Final Thoughts
Mistakes in notarization don’t just cause frustration—they can cost time, money, and even legal standing. The best way to avoid these issues is to hire a qualified, detail-oriented notary public who understands the law and your needs.
We’re proud to serve as that trusted partner for clients throughout the Merrimack Valley.
📞 Schedule your appointment at: https://tewksburynotary.com
📍 Find a reliable Notary Public in Massachusetts
Notary Public Serving Tewksbury MA 