7 Costly Notary Mistakes Clients Make—And How to Avoid Them
You finally found time to get that important document notarized—only to realize you're missing something critical. The notary can't proceed, and your appointment ends in frustration. This happens more often than you'd expect—but it doesn’t have to happen to you.
As the owner of Notary Near Me Florida, I meet clients at home, on porches, in fast-food restaurants during non-peak hours, or even over coffee at a quiet Dunkin’. But no matter where we meet, one thing stays the same: I want to make your notarization quick, easy, and successful.
That’s why I ask key questions before we ever meet. Still, mistakes happen—especially when answers don’t match the reality.
Let’s take a look at 7 common mistakes and how to make sure they don’t derail your notarization.
1. Signing Before the Notary Arrives
🚫 What went wrong: A client met me at a local Dunkin’ with a document that had already been signed at home. I couldn’t proceed.
✅ What to do instead: Wait to sign until you’re in my presence. I must witness your signature for it to be valid.
📝 Some documents also require one or two witnesses who are not related to you and have no interest in the transaction. I can supply witnesses for an additional fee, but only if this is arranged in advance.
2. Bringing Incomplete Documents
🚫 What went wrong: I met a client at McDonald’s who brought a document full of blanks. I had to decline the notarization.
✅ What to do instead: Make sure everything is filled out except the signature. Notaries cannot provide legal advice—including what to put in the blanks. When in doubt, consult an attorney.
3. Presenting a Copy of an ID
🚫 What went wrong: A client confirmed she had valid ID—but when we met, she only had a photocopy.
✅ What to do instead: Florida law requires an original, government-issued ID that is current or issued within the past 5 years. A photocopy will not be accepted. All signers must be physically present, each with proper ID
4. Using an Expired ID Without Meeting Florida's Exception
🚫 What went wrong: A client assumed her expired ID would work—it had been expired
for over 7 years.
✅ What to do instead: Florida notaries may accept expired IDs if they were issued within the past 5 years and include a serial or identifying number. Always check the issue date, not just the expiration. [Reference §117.05(5)(b), Fla. Stat.]
5. Asking the Notary to Choose the Certificate
🚫 What went wrong: At a picnic table in the park, a client asked, “Should this be a Jurat or an Acknowledgment?”
✅ What to do instead: Only you, your document issuer, or your attorney can make that decision. I can explain the difference—but I legally cannot choose the notarial act for you.
6. Assuming All Signers Must Be Present at Once
🚫 What went wrong: A woman brought a form to a library signing—her co-signer was at work, and she thought I could notarize both signatures later.
✅ What to do instead: Florida law requires each signer to personally appear before the notary—but they do not have to appear together. I can notarize separately, as long as each person meets with me individually and shows valid ID.
7. Giving Incorrect Information Before the Appointment
🚫 What went wrong: A client answered “yes” to having valid ID—only to bring a printed copy. Another insisted no witnesses were required, only to find out that two were. In one case, a client had their spouse lined up to witness a will—clearly not permitted under Florida law.
✅ What to do instead: I ask the right questions in advance, but the answers need to be accurate. Please double-check your responses. If you're unsure whether witnesses are required—or if your witness is eligible—it’s best to check the document instructions or ask an attorney.
At Notary Near Me Florida, I don’t just show up—I help you prepare. You’ll get:
- A notary who comes to your location
- Step-by-step guidance before the appointment
- Flexible options, including mobile and remote notarizations
- Optional witness services available with advance notice
These 7 costly mistakes can lead to delays, stress, or even invalid documents. But when you choose Notary Near Me Florida, you’re working with someone who helps you avoid them—all before we ever meet.
📞 Call me today at (813) 239-4117
💻 Or visit www.notarynearme-florida.com/contact-us Let’s get it done right—the first time.
🔎 Disclaimer: This blog is based on Florida notary law. If you live outside of Florida, be sure to check with
your state’s Secretary of State or commissioning agency to find out what rules apply in your jurisdiction.
