‍Your documents will need to be properly signed and notarized to be valid. DO NOT SIGN until you are in the presence of the notary.

Instructions for obtaining notarization of your legal documents with a local notary:

1. Locate a Notary Public: Notaries can be found in various locations, such as:
   
   • Banks and Credit Unions: Many banks have notaries available for their customers.
   • UPS Stores or Postal Offices: Some UPS Stores and postal offices offer notary services.
   • Law Offices: Notaries are often found in law firms.
   • Public Libraries: Some public libraries have notaries on staff.
   • Online Directories: Websites like Notary Public Directory or Notary Rotary can help locate notaries in your area.
2. Contact the Notary: Once you've identified a potential notary, it's a good idea to contact them in advance to confirm their availability, hours of operation, and any fees associated with their service.
3. Schedule an Appointment (if necessary): Some notaries may operate by appointment only, especially if they are located within a busy office or business. If this is the case, schedule an appointment that fits your schedule.
4. Gather Your Documents: Make sure you have all the necessary documents that require notarization. Ensure they are completed except for the signature.
5. Bring Identification: Most notaries will require you to present valid identification, such as a driver's license, passport, or state-issued ID card. Make sure you have this with you when you visit the notary.
6. Visit the Notary's Office: Arrive at the notary's location at the scheduled time, or during their regular business hours if no appointment is necessary.
7. Complete Notary's Form (if applicable): Some notaries may require you to fill out a brief form before they can proceed with the notarization. This form typically includes your name, address, and other relevant information.
8. Sign the Document in Front of the Notary: In the presence of the notary, sign the document where indicated. Do not sign the document beforehand, as the notary must witness your signature.
9. Provide Thumbprint (if required): In some states or for certain types of documents, the notary may require you to provide a thumbprint in addition to your signature.
10. Pay the Notary Fee: Notaries may charge a fee for their services. Make sure you have cash or payment method accepted by the notary to cover any applicable fees.

Collect Your Notarized Document: Once the notarization process is complete, the notary will return the document to you. Make sure to keep it in a safe place, as notarized documents are often required for legal or official purposes.