Can I Notarize This? Commonly Asked Questions Answered by a NY Notary Public

The Notary Confusion Is Real

As a New York Notary Public, one of the most common things I hear is:
“Can you notarize this?”

Sometimes the answer is yes. Sometimes no. Sometimes—it depends. So I put together this helpful guide to answer the questions I get most often, explain what’s allowed in New York, and clear up some common confusion.

Whether you’re planning your estate, handling documents for international use, or just need something signed on the go, this post will help you understand when and how a notary can help.

1. Can a New York Notary Notarize a Copy of a Document?

This one’s a hot topic. In New York, notaries cannot certify copies of documents like birth certificates, passports, or diplomas. That’s called a "copy certification"—and it’s not permitted under New York law.

📝 But here’s a workaround I often help clients with:
You can write a statement saying the copy is a true and accurate representation of the original. I can then notarize your statement—not the copy itself.

✅ Legal? Yes.
❌ Certifying the copy directly? No.
⚠️ Important: I do not give legal advice. You’re responsible for the content of the statement.

2. Can I Notarize a Will, Trust, or Power of Attorney?

Absolutely—this is one of my most common requests. But here’s something most people don’t know:
Banks are becoming more restrictive and typically won’t notarize these types of documents due to liability concerns.

That’s where a mobile notary (like me!) comes in. I notarize estate planning documents like:

• Last wills and testaments

• Living trusts

• Durable and healthcare powers of attorney

• Advance directives

• Healthcare proxies

📍 I meet clients at home, at attorney offices, or even in hospitals or elder care facilities—wherever it’s needed.

3. Can a Notary Notarize for a Family Member in NY?

This one can be tricky. New York law doesn’t outright forbid notarizing for a family member, but it’s not recommended—especially if:

• You’re named in the document

• You could benefit from the transaction

• You want to avoid even the appearance of impropriety

💡 My rule of thumb: If I’m emotionally or financially connected to the person or document, I don’t notarize it. It keeps everything clean, neutral, and legally sound.

4. What Documents Can a NY Notary Notarize Online?

Thanks to changes in New York law, Remote Online Notarizations (RON) are now legal—and I’m proud to offer this service!

As of 2023, you can now sign online (via secure video meeting) for documents like:

• Real estate forms

• Affidavits and declarations

• Power of attorney (in some cases)

• Parental consent forms

• Business contracts

⚠️ Some documents, like wills or certain estate planning documents, will still need to be signed in person—so always check what’s legally required or ask your attorney.

5. What Documents Can’t Be Notarized in New York?

Here’s a quick list of documents that can’t be notarized or require specific handling:

• Vital records (birth/death/marriage certificates) → must be obtained from issuing agencies

• Certified copies → not allowed

• Documents you don't understand or can't verify the signer’s identity for

• Anything that appears fraudulent or incomplete

And remember: a notary cannot give legal advice or explain the meaning of a document.

6. What Is Apostille Facilitation and Can You Help With It?

Yes, I can!

An apostille is a certification that makes a notarized document legally valid in another country. If you're submitting documents to the Philippines or another country that’s part of the Hague Apostille Convention, this is what you need.

I offer apostille facilitation services, including:

• Helping prepare the correct notarization

• Filing with the New York Department of State

• Ensuring international requirements are met

Common apostille documents include:

• Birth and marriage certificates

• Powers of attorney

• Adoption paperwork

• Business documents

7. Do You Offer Mobile Notary Services?

Yes! I’m a fully mobile notary based in the Hudson Valley and travel to:

• Private homes

• Hospitals and nursing facilities

• Attorney offices

• Jails (with proper arrangements)

• Real estate closings

• Remote job sites

If your bank won’t do it, I probably can.

8. Can I Notarize a Document in Another State or Country?

Nope—not unless you’re physically in New York at the time of the signing.
As a New York-commissioned notary, I can only notarize within the state—but I can notarize documents that are used in other states or countries, as long as they’re signed in NY.

🌍 That includes documents related to property sales, court cases, or legal matters in other states or countries.

9. Can a Notary Refuse to Notarize a Document?

Yes. A notary has the right—and legal responsibility—to refuse notarization if:

• The document is incomplete or blank

• The signer appears confused, intoxicated, or coerced

• Proper ID isn’t provided

• The document is illegal, suspicious, or unclear

My goal is always to help, but I also follow the law to protect everyone involved.

10. How Much Does a Notary Cost in NY?

By law, New York notaries can charge $2 per signature. However, for mobile and remote services, additional fees apply for:

• Travel

• After-hours or weekend signings

• Document printing or courier services

• Apostille facilitation

💬 Want a quote? Just send me a quick message—I’m always happy to walk you through it.

Final Thoughts: When in Doubt, Ask

The rules around notarization can be confusing—but that’s why I’m here. As a professional mobile and online notary, I’ve seen it all (well… almost!). If you’re wondering “Can I notarize this?”—the answer might just be yes.

Need a Notary? I’ve Got You Covered.

📍 Serving the Hudson Valley & beyond
💻 Online notarizations available. Book Today!