Signer Identification Flashcards

What should a notary do if the signer's name on their ID does not exactly match the name on the document?

Answer: Notarize with a journal note about the minor discrepancy if it is clearly the same person

Many states allow notarization when there is a minor name discrepancy (such as a missing middle name) as long as the notary notes it in the journal and is satisfied it is the same person.

What qualifications must a credible witness meet to identify a signer?

Answer: They must personally know the signer and have no financial interest in the transaction

A credible witness must personally know the signer, be known to or identified by the notary, and have no interest in the document or transaction.

Can a notary notarize a document for an immediate family member?

Answer: Yes, as long as the notary has no financial or beneficial interest in the document

Most states permit notarizing for family members provided the notary has no financial stake in the transaction, though many notaries choose to decline to avoid conflict.

What should a notary do if a signer's identification appears to be altered or counterfeit?

Answer: Refuse to perform the notarization

If a notary suspects an ID is fake or altered, they must refuse to notarize because proceeding could make the notary an unwitting participant in fraud.

An acceptable ID for notarization must typically include which two features?

Answer: Photograph and signature

An acceptable ID must have a photograph for visual identification and a signature to compare with the signer's document signature.

What does 'personal knowledge' of a signer mean in notarial law?

Answer: The notary knows the signer personally through an established prior relationship

Personal knowledge means the notary has an established prior relationship with the signer that allows the notary to recognize and vouch for their identity without an ID.