Verifying signer identity through satisfactory evidence, spotting impostor fraud, and the red flags that require refusing a notarization.
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- What types of government-issued ID are considered acceptable forms of satisfactory evidence?
- A current government-issued ID with photo, including driver's license, passport, state ID, or military ID.
- Can a notary use an expired government-issued ID as satisfactory evidence?
- No, the ID must be current and unexpired to be acceptable.
- What should a notary inspect on a government-issued ID?
- The photo, expiration date, signature, physical description, and security features to confirm it matches the signer.
- What is the primary red flag when comparing a photo ID to a signer?
- Physical appearance does not match the photo (face, age, distinguishing marks, hair color, or tattoos).
- Can a notary accept an out-of-state or foreign government ID?
- Yes, if it is current, unexpired, has a photo and signature, and is issued by a foreign government or U.S. state.
- What is a credible witness for purposes of satisfactory evidence?
- A person known to the notary for at least 3 years (or per state law) who can vouch for the signer's identity based on personal knowledge.
- What requirement must a credible witness meet?
- The credible witness must themselves provide acceptable satisfactory evidence (government ID) to the notary.
- What is satisfactory evidence of identity?
- A current government-issued photo ID, a credible witness known to the notary for 3 years, or other evidence specified by state law.
- When is it never appropriate to notarize a document?
- When the signer cannot provide satisfactory evidence of identity.
- What should you do if a document appears to have been altered?
- Refuse to notarize it. Do not complete the notarization if there are erasures, white-out, strikethroughs, or inserted text.
- What is a sign of impostor fraud involving a signer's signature?
- The signer's signature on the document does not match the signature on their ID, or they hesitate when asked to sign.
- What should you do if pages appear to be missing from a document?
- Refuse to notarize. Ensure all pages are present and sequential before proceeding.
- Why is a signer appearing nervous or rushed a red flag?
- It may indicate coercion, misunderstanding of the document, or fraudulent intent. The signer should appear calm and voluntary.
- What red flag occurs when a signer appears unfamiliar with the document being notarized?
- The signer does not understand the content, purpose, or terms of the document, suggesting they may not be the intended signer or are being coerced.
- When should you refuse a notarization due to pressure?
- When a third party is directing the signer, rushing the process, or when you sense coercion or undue influence.
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