Going through the extra step of having your signature attested by a notary might be excruciating when you’re on a tight deadline to get a legal document signed and delivered. After all, most of us don’t have the number of a Notary Public at our fingertips. Notarization, on the other hand, is an important aspect of the legal process. It helps to prevent fraud and misunderstandings, which could lead to much more serious problems in the future.
That doesn’t make it any easier to locate a notary. Fortunately, the United States Postal Service (USPS) is helping to make the process go more smoothly.
Notarization at USPS
The United States Postal Service (USPS) is a federal agency that oversees the country’s post offices (for more information, see the History of the US Post Office). The USPS is unable to provide notary services because it is a federal agency and notary licences are issued by the states.
However, many US Post Office offices have notarization contracts with private enterprises located within the same building. As a result, while you might get your documents notarized at the US Post Office, the Notary Public would not be hired by the US Post Office.
The United States Postal Service (USPS) is a federal agency that oversees the country’s post offices (for more information, see the History of the US Post Office). The USPS is unable to provide notary services because it is a federal agency and notary licences are issued by the states.
However, many US Post Office offices have notarization contracts with private enterprises located within the same building. As a result, while you might get your documents notarized at the US Post Office, the Notary Public would not be hired by the US Post Office.
This service is not available at all US Post Office locations, so contact ahead before going to your local post office. Visit the USPS Discover Locations website to find a US Post Office near you.
What is Notarization?
Wills, trusts, deeds, contracts, and affidavits, for example, must be notarized in order to be legally binding. The process of having a legal document signed, sealed, and attested by a licenced notary public is known as notarization. “Notarization is the official fraud-deterrent process that ensures the parties to a transaction that a document is authentic and can be trusted,” according to the National Notary Association. Above all, notarization is the assurance given by a duly appointed and impartial Notary Public that a document is genuine, that its signature is genuine, and that the signer acted without pressure or intimidation and wanted the document’s provisions to be in full force and effect.
Simply said, notarization is a three-step process carried out by a Notary Public, and it entails:
1.Vetting
The document to be notarized is examined by the Notary Public to ensure that it is genuine.
2. Certifying
The Notary Public attests that the person signing the document is the same person who is named on it. In addition, the Notary Public certifies that the signee understands the document and is signing freely.
3. Record-Keeping
Every transaction witnessed by a Notary Public is recorded in an official log, which includes the names and contact information of those who signed the notarized document.
The documents will be impressed with the Notary Public’s seal and signature and returned to the proper parties once the Notary Public has validated these three stages.
What You Need for Your Notary Visit
If your local US Post Office has a Notary Public on staff, you’ll need to bring the following documents with you for your notarization:
1. Valid, Government-issued Photo ID
The Notary Public will use this document to verify your identification before you sign any documents.
2. Document to be Notarized
Make sure the document you’re bringing is the original, unsigned version.
3. Fee for Notarization.
The cost of notarization varies by state. However, depending on the state, most Notaries Public charge between $10 and $30.
4. Witness (when applicable)
The signing of some legal documents will necessitate the presence of a witness. Although some US Post Office facilities may have witnesses on hand, this is not guaranteed. As a result, the safest choice is to bring your own witness.
Additional Notary Public Locations
If your local US Post Office does not provide notary services, there are a few other options to consider:
Mobile Notary Services
Mobile notary services are by far the most convenient, as they will notarize your document at your home or office. They are, however, usually the most expensive alternative.
Banks
A Notary Public is usually on hand at all times in most banks. If you have an account with a bank, you may be able to get documents notarized for free.
Courthouses
During regular business hours, notaries are available at courthouses. Notarization requests are usually handled by the county clerk’s office.
Shipping and Packing Stores
A notary will be on duty at many packing, shipping, and parcel stores, such as UPS. It’s usually a good idea to contact ahead to make sure a Notary Public is available.
Real Estate/Law Offices
Notaries Public are employed by several real estate and law firms. If they don’t, they should be able to direct you to the nearest notary establishment.
Despite the fact that the USPS is unable to provide notary services, they have worked to find ways to continue to provide this vital service. For more information on the services provided by USPS, visit their website.