A notarized letter is a written statement that carries a notary’s official certificate. The notary’s job is not to judge the truth of your words but to verify your identity, confirm you are signing willingly, and attach a seal that proves when and how the signing took place. This extra step deters fraud and is often required by banks, schools, courts, and government agencies before they will accept your letter.
There are two main types of notarization: an acknowledgment, where you confirm you signed voluntarily, and a jurat, where you swear or affirm that the contents are true and sign in front of the notary. Knowing which one your situation requires will save you time and avoid rejection.
Although the process might sound complicated, it’s straightforward. You prepare your letter, bring valid identification, and meet with a notary in person or online. In the sections that follow, we’ll cover when notarized letters are needed, what information to include, and how to complete the process step by step.
Key Takeaways
- Purpose: A notarized letter adds a notary’s certificate to your signed statement, confirming identity and willingness to sign.
- Types: Acknowledgment (confirms identity and voluntary signature.) Jurat (involves an oath or affirmation that your statement is true.)
- Common Uses: Proof of residency, financial support declarations, child travel consent, and authorization letters.
- Process: Bring valid ID and an unsigned letter to the notary. They will confirm identity, complete the certificate, and apply a seal.
- Cost: States set maximum fees (for example, California $15 per signature, Texas $10). Additional charges may apply for mobile or online notarization.
Notarized Letter Templates
Example of Notarized Letter
Notarized Authorization Letter
Notarized Letter of Guardianship
Notarized Letter Template
What Is a Notarized Letter?
A notarized letter is a written statement that carries both your signature and a notary’s official certificate. The notary’s certificate records key details: the place where the notarization occurred, the date, confirmation that you personally appeared, and how your identity was verified, usually with a government-issued photo ID or, in some states, a credible witness. The notary then signs and applies their official seal.
The purpose of this process is to deter fraud by proving that the person who signed is who they claim to be, that they appeared before the notary, and that they signed willingly. What a notary does not do is confirm that the contents of your letter are accurate or legally sufficient.
Important:
A notary cannot give legal advice or choose which type of notarial act you need. If you are unsure, check with the agency that will receive your letter or seek guidance from an attorney. A notary is also required to refuse the notarization if there are signs of coercion, misrepresentation, or if you are not signing with a sound understanding of the document.
How to Get a Letter Notarized
Getting a letter notarized is straightforward once you prepare the right way. The process is similar across the United States, and you can complete it in person or by remote online notarization (RON) where your state and the receiving agency accept it. Start by confirming which notarial act you need, acknowledgment or jurat, because that drives what happens in the appointment.
In person
Step 1: Prepare the letter but leave it unsigned
Bring a clean final draft and do not sign ahead of time. For a jurat, the signature must happen in front of the notary after an oath or affirmation. For an acknowledgment, many states let you acknowledge an earlier signature, though signing during the appointment is often simplest. Leave space at the end for the notary’s certificate; the notary will attach the correct wording for your state.
Tip:
If the recipient publishes its own form, use that form instead of a generic letter to avoid rejection.
Step 2: Confirm the required notarial act with the recipient
Ask whether they require an acknowledgment or a jurat. A notary can explain the difference but cannot choose for you. Using the wrong act is a common reason documents are turned away.
Step 3: Bring acceptable identification
Carry a current government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license, state ID card, or passport. The name on your letter should match your ID. If you do not have ID, some states permit a credible witness who meets specific rules; ask your notary in advance if that option applies where you live.
Step 4: Meet the notary and complete the signing
At the appointment, expect a brief screening. The notary will verify your identity, confirm that you understand the letter and are signing willingly, and administer an oath for a jurat.
- For a jurat: you swear or affirm that the statement is true, then sign in the notary’s presence.
- For an acknowledgment: you confirm you signed the letter voluntarily, either in front of the notary or earlier, depending on state rules.
These checks are designed to deter fraud, so the notary may refuse to proceed if there are signs of coercion or misrepresentation.
Step 5: The notary completes the certificate and applies an official seal
The certificate records the date, the state and county where the notarization occurred, that you personally appeared, and how your identity was verified. Review the certificate before you leave to make sure names, dates, and the certificate type are correct.
Step 6: Pay the fee and keep the original for submission
States set maximum fees per notarial act. Mobile visits, printing, or after-hours appointments can involve separate charges. Ask about the total cost in advance and request a receipt if you need one.
Important:
Some documents also require witnesses in addition to notarization. If witnesses are needed, confirm how many and whether they must be independent of you.
Remote Online Notarization (RON)
If your state authorizes RON and the recipient accepts electronic notarization, you can complete the process over a secure audio-video session.
Step 1: Confirm eligibility
Check that your state permits RON and that the recipient accepts an electronically notarized PDF. When in doubt, ask the receiving office.
Step 2: Prepare your file and ID
Upload the unsigned letter and your ID to the approved platform. You will complete identity checks that can include ID scanning and knowledge-based questions.
Step 3: Join the live session and sign electronically
During the call, the notary verifies your identity, conducts the same willingness checks, and, for a jurat, administers an oath. You sign electronically, and the notary applies a digital certificate and seal. Download the notarized PDF and follow the recipient’s submission instructions.
Tip:
Some agencies still require a paper original. If so, choose an in-person notarization or ask the recipient whether they accept a printed copy of an e-notarized document.
Before you go (quick prep checklist)
Where Can You Get a Letter Notarized?
You have several practical options. Start with places you already use, then compare convenience, cost, and whether they can handle any witness or electronic-notary requirements.
- Banks and credit unions: Many branches have notaries for account holders. Some waive the fee for customers; non-customers may be referred elsewhere.
- Pack-and-ship stores (e.g., The UPS Store): Widely available and easy to schedule by phone or online. Fees vary by location and state caps.
- Law, real-estate, or title offices: Common for affidavits, deeds, or closing paperwork. Call ahead; some prioritize clients only.
- Public libraries, city or county offices, and universities: Selected locations maintain on-site notaries during business hours. Availability is limited.
- Mobile notaries: They come to your home, workplace, or hospital. Expect travel or convenience charges in addition to the state-set notarization fee.
- Remote online notarization (RON): In states that allow it and where the recipient accepts e-notarized PDFs, you can complete the session by secure video.
After you pick a location, confirm the details before you go. Ask about the fee per signature, appointment times, acceptable IDs, and whether witnesses are available on site. If your document requires a specific notarial act, say so upfront so the notary can prepare the correct certificate.
Tip:
If you plan to use RON, first check two things: your state’s rules and the receiving agency’s policy on electronic notarization. Some agencies still require a paper original.
Consideration:
Certain documents need witnesses in addition to notarization. Ask how many are required and whether you must bring them. If witnesses are supplied by the location, they may need valid ID as well.
How Much Does It Cost to Notarize a Letter? (by State)
Costs and convenience vary by location. For a simple letter, a bank branch or public library is often the least expensive choice. If you need evening hours, witnesses, or cannot travel, a mobile notary or an online session trades a higher fee for flexibility. Choose a method the recipient accepts. Before you book, ask for the total price: the state-capped notarization fee plus any travel, platform, or printing charges. Here are typical fee caps so you can budget at a glance.
| State | In-person cap for common acts (acknowledgment / jurat) | Remote / electronic cap | Official source |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | Up to $15 per signature | Remote online notarization program not yet operative; fee cap TBD by regulation | California Secretary of State, Notary Public Handbook (2025). (notary.cdn.sos.ca.gov) |
| Texas | $10 for acknowledgments or oaths; other items listed in statute | Up to $25 for an online notarization (in addition to §406.024 fees) | Texas Gov’t Code §406.024 and §406.111. (Texas Statutes) |
| Florida | Up to $10 per notarial act | Up to $25 per online notarial act | Florida Statutes §117.05 and §117.275. (Online Sunshine) |
| New York | $2 for acknowledgment, oath, or affirmation | Up to $25 per electronic notarial act | NY Executive Law §136; NY Dept. of State FAQ. (NYSenate.gov) |
| Pennsylvania | Most common acts $5 (acknowledgments, affidavits, oaths); each additional name $2 | No separate cap stated; remote notarization is permitted under DOS rules | 4 Pa. Code §161.1 (fee schedule); PA DOS “Electronic or Remote Notarization.” (Pennsylvania Code & Bulletin) |
| Colorado | Up to $15 per paper notarization | Up to $25 per electronic or remote notarization | Colorado SOS Fees FAQ. (Colorado Secretary of State) |
| Washington | Up to $15 for most in-person acts | Up to $25 for remote notarial acts | Washington Dept. of Licensing: Laws and rules page. (Washington State Department of Licensing) |
| Arizona | “No charge” up to $10 per notarial act (posted fee required) | Same cap, up to $10 per electronic or remote act (per SOS manual) | Arizona SOS Notary Public Reference Manual (2025); AZ SOS fee notice. (azsos.gov) |
After You Pick a Location: What To Do Next?
Before you draft anything, confirm requirements and gather what you’ll need. This short prep reduces rewrites and avoids last-minute issues.
- Confirm what the recipient wants. Ask if they require an acknowledgment or a jurat, whether witnesses are needed, and if they accept remote online notarization. If they publish a specific form, plan to use it.
- Gather the facts for your letter. List your full legal name and address, the purpose of the letter, the specific facts or permission, any dates or limits, and relevant reference numbers. Leave space at the end for the notary’s certificate. Do not sign yet—you’ll write and sign later.
- Check identification and name consistency. Have a current government photo ID ready. Make sure the name you’ll use in the letter matches your ID. If you lack ID, ask your notary in advance whether a credible witness is permitted in your state.
- Plan your appointment and ask about fees. Decide on in-person or online. Ask for the total price, including the state-capped notarization fee plus any travel, platform, or printing charges. You can book now or after you finish writing.
How to Write a Letter For Notarization
Write for the person who has to review your letter quickly. Keep sentences short and specific, and build the page so a notary can complete the certificate without delays. If the recipient told you which notarial act to use, note it now. An acknowledgment records identity and a voluntary signature. A jurat adds an oath or affirmation and requires you to sign at the appointment. If you are unsure, ask the receiving office.
Add a plain, accurate title
Use a short title that matches the purpose. Good options include Authorization Letter, Sworn Statement of Residency, or Financial Support Declaration. Clear titles help reviewers understand your intent at a glance.
Identify yourself exactly as on your ID
Open with your full legal name and current address. Match your government ID, including any middle initial. This prevents name-mismatch issues when the notary checks identity.
I, Sofia A. Mercer, of 860 Washington St, New York, NY 10998, …
If you sign in a role, show it near your name: “as parent of Ava Mercer” or “as attorney-in-fact for Noah Brooks under power of attorney dated January 2, 2092.”
State the purpose in one or two sentences
Tell the reader why you are writing, then stop. Aim for a line they can verify without guessing.
This letter confirms my place of residence.
I authorize Ethan Cole to pick up my medical records from Hudson River Medical Clinic.
Write the core facts or permission
Give only the details the recipient expects. Use names, dates, amounts, limits, and any reference numbers. Place each detail where a reviewer can find it quickly.
Common patterns:
Authorization (usually acknowledgment): say who you authorize, the exact action, and any date limits.
I authorize Ethan Cole to collect my records on February 5 through March 31, 2094 and to sign any receipt confirming collection.
Proof of residency (often jurat): state your full address and since when you have lived there.
I reside at 860 Washington St, New York, NY 10998 and have lived there since August 15, 2093.
Financial support (often jurat): state who you support, the amount, and how often.
I provide support to Liam Porter in the amount of $1,200 each month, paid on or about the fifth.
Tip:
If the agency publishes a specific form for your situation, use that form instead of a general letter. It reduces the chance of rejection.
Place the signing date and location in the body
Add the city, state, and the date near your signature area. This aligns with the venue and date that appear in the notary’s certificate.
Signed on February 1, 2094 at New York, New York.
Add signature block
Leave a line for your handwritten signature with your printed name below. If more than one person must sign, create a separate block for each signer and plan how everyone will appear for the required act.
Signature: ____________________ Printed name: Sofia A. Mercer
Leave space for the notary’s certificate
Reserve a blank area at the end or add a separate page labeled Notarial certificate to be completed by the notary. Do not paste certificate wording you are unsure about. The notary will attach the correct short form for your state and the act you use.
Important:
A notary can describe acknowledgment versus jurat, but they cannot choose the act for you or give legal advice. Confirm requirements with the office that will receive your letter.
Format for readability
Use US Letter size with standard margins and a clean font. If the letter runs longer than one page, number the pages and add your name in a small header. Avoid blanks in the body. If you need to revise text, reprint a clean page rather than crossing out words.
Quick Pre-Appointment Check
Before you meet the notary, confirm these points so you do not have to rewrite later.
Note:
Do not include your full Social Security number unless the recipient requires it. If a number is needed, many offices accept the last four digits.
Notarized Letter Format
Example
[DATE]
[RECIPIENT NAME]
[RECIPIENT ORGANIZATION]
[RECIPIENT STREET ADDRESS]
[CITY, STATE ZIP]
Re: [SHORT PURPOSE, e.g., Authorization to Pick Up Records / Sworn Statement of Residency]
Dear [MR./MS./MX. LAST NAME or RECIPIENT TITLE],
I, [FULL LEGAL NAME AS ON ID], of [FULL STREET ADDRESS, CITY, STATE ZIP], [write one or two sentences stating the purpose in plain words].
[If this is an AUTHORIZATION:]
I authorize [FULL NAME OF PERSON OR ORGANIZATION] to [specific action] regarding [account/file/records/parcel/subject]. This authorization is effective [START DATE] through [END DATE], unless I revoke it in writing.
[If this is a SWORN STATEMENT (JURAT):]
I declare under oath that the following is true to the best of my knowledge:
1) [FACT 1]
2) [FACT 2]
3) [FACT 3, if needed]
[Optional reference line if requested by recipient:]
Reference/Account/File No.: [NUMBER OR N/A]
Signed on [MONTH DAY, YEAR] at [CITY, STATE].
Sincerely,
[PRINTED NAME OF SIGNER]
[HANDWRITTEN SIGNATURE]
[Optional witness lines — include only if required by the recipient]
Witness Signature: ________ Printed Name: ________
Witness Signature: ________ Printed Name: ________
Notarial certificate to be completed by the notary.
Notarized Personal Property Transfer Letter
This sample notarized personal property transfer letter documents a gift or sale of an item between individuals. It is formatted for a notary acknowledgment. The body should name the item and accessories, the effective date, the consideration (gift or sale), and a statement transferring all rights. The notarial certificate is completed by the notary.
Example
February 1, 2094
Adam Rivera
Apartment 3B
860 Washington St
New York, NY 10998
Re: Transfer of Ownership and Possession of Television
Dear Mr. Rivera,
I, Sofia A. Mercer, of 860 Washington St, New York, NY 10998, am transferring ownership and possession of the television currently located at our apartment to you, effective February 1, 2094.
Item description: Samsung 55-inch 4K UHD Television, Model UN55NU7100; Serial SN-2094-5543.
Included items: Remote control and power cable.
Condition and consideration: The transfer is a gift with no payment. The item is transferred as is and, to my knowledge, is free of liens or adverse claims.
Rights released: I relinquish all rights, title, and interest in the item as of the effective date.
Signed on February 1, 2094 at New York, New York.
Sincerely,
Sofia A. Mercer
Signature
Recipient acknowledgment:
I, Adam Rivera, accept the transfer described above.
Adam Rivera
Signature
Acknowledgment (Notarial certificate completed by Notary Public)
State of New York
County of New York
This record was acknowledged before me on February 1, 2094, by Sofia A. Mercer.
Mary Leonard
Mary Leonard, Notary Public, State of New York
Commission No. 01LEO12345
My commission expires: October 31, 2096
{Notary Seal}
Notarized Letter of Authorization (Acknowledgment)
This letter authorizes a named person to take possession of a specific item and remove it from a stated location. It is intended for notarization by acknowledgment, where a notary confirms the signer’s identity and willingness. The body identifies the item clearly (make, model, serial), states where it is located, defines the scope of authority (possession and removal only unless ownership transfer is stated), sets effective dates, and notes any limits. The notarial certificate is completed by the notary at the appointment.
Example
February 1, 2094
Daniel Ortiz
Apartment 3B
860 Washington St
New York, NY 10998
Re: Authorization to Take Possession of Television
Dear Mr. Ortiz,
I, Ava R. Patel, of 860 Washington St, New York, NY 10998, authorize Daniel Ortiz to take possession of the television located at our apartment and to remove it from the premises. This authorization includes signing any receipt or release related to the item.
Item description: Samsung 55-inch 4K UHD Television, Model UN55NU7100; Serial SN-2094-5543.
Location of item: Apartment 3B, 860 Washington St, New York, NY 10998.
Effective dates: February 1, 2094 through March 31, 2094.
Limitations: This authorization permits possession and removal only. It does not transfer ownership or title.
Signed on February 1, 2094 at New York, New York.
Sincerely,
Ava R. Patel
Signature
Acknowledgment (Notarial certificate completed by Notary Public)
State of New York
County of New York
This record was acknowledged before me on February 3, 2094, by Nadia J. Bennett.
Carmen D. Alvarez
Carmen D. Alvarez, Notary Public, State of New York
Commission No. 02ALV67890
My commission expires: December 31, 2097
{Notary Seal}
Notarized Affidavit of Residency (Jurat)
This letter documents your place of residence for a school, employer, or agency. It is intended for notarization by jurat, where you swear or affirm the statement is true and sign at the appointment. The body should state your full legal name and address exactly as on your ID, the date you began living there, and the purpose of the letter. Keep the language brief and specific. The notary completes the jurat certificate after you sign.
Example
February 10, 2094
Mr. Daniel Tillman
Tillman Ltd.
455 West 34th Street
New York, NY 10001
Re: Affidavit of Residency
Dear Mr. Tillman,
I, Elijah M. Torres, of 860 Washington St, New York, NY 10998, declare under oath that my primary residence is 860 Washington St, New York, NY 10998. I have continuously resided at this address since August 15, 2093. This affidavit is provided to Tillman Ltd. as proof of residency for employment records.
Sworn and signed on February 10, 2094 at New York, New York.
Sincerely,
Elijah M. Torres
Signature
Jurat (Notarial certificate completed by Notary Public)
State of New York
County of New York
Subscribed and sworn to before me on February 10, 2094, by Elijah M. Torres.
Carmen D. Alvarez
Carmen D. Alvarez, Notary Public, State of New York
Commission No. 01DES34567
My commission expires: July 31, 2097
{Notary Seal}
Note: Notary certificate wording is state-specific. The notary completes this section at the appointment. Do not prefill it.
After You Notarize: Submission and Records
Do a quick check before you hand the letter over. Look at the certificate for the date, state and county, your name as it appears on your ID, the notarial act type, the notary’s signature, seal, and commission details. Keep a photocopy or a scanned PDF for your records. If the recipient asked for a paper original, mail or hand-deliver that version. If you used remote online notarization, submit the original e-notarized PDF as instructed and keep the digital file unchanged.
Tip:
If a document is rejected, do not write on notarized pages. Ask the recipient what is missing, then return to the same notary for a corrective certificate or a new notarization.
Sample Notarized Letter
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Common Mistakes to Avoid (and How to Fix Them)
Wrong notarial act:
Using an acknowledgment when the recipient needed a jurat, or vice versa, is one of the most frequent reasons a letter gets rejected. An acknowledgment records identity and a voluntary signature. A jurat adds an oath or affirmation and requires you to sign at the appointment.
What to do:
Ask the receiving office which act they require before you write or book. If you already used the wrong act, contact the recipient and the original notary to see if a corrective certificate is acceptable. If not, plan a fresh notarization with the correct act.
Signing too early:
A jurat must be signed in the notary’s presence after you take an oath or affirmation. If you sign a jurat letter at home, the notary cannot certify it. Acknowledgments can often cover a signature made earlier, but many people still run into confusion.
What to do:
Bring an unsigned copy for a jurat. For acknowledgments, signing during the appointment avoids questions. If you signed a jurat early, print a clean copy and sign at the appointment.
Name mismatch with your ID:
The notary must identify you. If your letter says “Sofia Mercer” but your ID says “Sofia A. Mercer,” the notary may pause the appointment or the recipient may reject the letter. Hyphenations and recent name changes cause similar issues.
What to do:
Match the letter to your ID, including a middle initial if it appears there. If your name recently changed, ask the recipient if supporting documents are needed. If you lack acceptable ID, ask your notary in advance whether a credible witness is permitted in your state.
Missing witness lines when witnesses are required:
Some recipients require witnesses in addition to notarization. If your letter lacks lines for witness signatures, or no witnesses are present, the document can be turned away.
What to do:
Ask the recipient how many witnesses are needed and whether they must be independent of you. Add simple witness lines under your signature and confirm whether the location can supply witnesses or if you must bring them with photo ID.
Skipping an official form:
Many agencies publish their own forms. Substituting a general letter often leads to rejection.
What to do:
If the recipient lists an official form, use it. Keep your letter only for extra context if the office permits it.
Tips for Writing a Notarized Letter
A short checklist makes the appointment smoother. Draft your letter first, then use these pointers to tidy it up.
- Use your legal name and address. Match your government ID exactly. Avoid extra personal data like age or full SSN; add the last four digits only if the recipient asks.
- Start with a precise purpose line. One or two sentences that say why you are writing, for example “Authorization to pick up records” or “Sworn statement of residency.”
- State the facts with specifics. Use names, dates, amounts, reference numbers, and any limits. Skip anecdotes.
- Place the signing city, state, and date near your signature. The notary’s certificate will also show the venue and date; aligning both reduces questions.
- Leave space for the notary’s certificate. Add a line such as “Notarial certificate to be completed by the notary.” Do not paste certificate wording unless your notary provides it.
- Bring witnesses only if required. Confirm how many and whether they must be independent; add simple witness lines if the recipient expects signatures.
- Proofread and print cleanly. No blanks you don’t intend to fill. If you need a change, reprint instead of crossing out text.
FAQs
1. Notary Public (state-commissioned). Most notarizations are performed by a Notary Public who is commissioned by a state. The notary must be physically in that state when the act occurs, including during remote online notarization.
2. Remote online notaries (RON). In states that authorize RON, a commissioned notary conducts the session by secure audio-video. The notarization is considered performed in the notary’s commissioning state. Check that your recipient accepts e-notarized PDFs.
3. Clerks and other authorized officers. In some jurisdictions, certain court or county offices perform notarial acts during business hours. Availability varies.
4. Outside the U.S. (for U.S. documents). U.S. embassies and consulates provide notarial services to U.S. citizens and, in many cases, to non-citizens for documents used in the United States.
Note on qualifications:
States set their own rules for becoming a notary. Common requirements include being at least 18, meeting residency or employment criteria in the state, completing an application, and in many states passing education or an exam, a background check, and obtaining a bond.
Practical takeaway:
The simplest path is a bank or shipping center notary, a mobile notary, or a state-approved online platform; whichever the recipient accepts.
Use an acknowledgment when the recipient needs proof of identity and a voluntary signature. Use a jurat when you must swear or affirm the statement is true and sign at the appointment. State short-form certificates show exactly how each act is worded. Ask the receiving office which one they require.
For a jurat, yes. You take an oath or affirmation and sign during the appointment. For an acknowledgment, many states permit you to acknowledge an earlier signature, though signing at the appointment is simplest.
Many states authorize remote online notarization. Acceptance still depends on the recipient. Always confirm the recipient’s policy before choosing online.
Common options include your bank or credit union, shipping centers like The UPS Store, law or title offices, some libraries or university offices, mobile notaries who travel to you, and approved online platforms. Call ahead to confirm ID, fees, and any witness needs.
Often yes, as long as the notary has no direct financial or beneficial interest in the transaction. Some situations create conflicts. When in doubt, use an unrelated notary.
Usually yes. A notary can notarize a signature on a document written in a language they do not understand, but they must be able to communicate with you directly and confirm the document is complete. The certificate itself must be completed correctly.
Generally no. Vital records are certified by the issuing agency, not by a notary. If you need a certified copy, request it from the state or county office.
There is no universal expiration in notary law. Recipients often set freshness rules, for example a letter dated within 30, 60, or 90 days. Follow the recipient’s instructions.
Yes. Reasons include inability to verify identity, an incomplete document, suspected coercion, or a conflict of interest. Prepare a complete letter, bring proper ID, and expect the notary to decline if something is not right.
Yes, as long as the notary performs the act within the state where they are commissioned. Many recipients accept out-of-state notarizations, but you should still confirm with the receiving office.
Only if the recipient requires them. If witnesses are needed, confirm how many and whether they must be independent. Ask in advance if the location can provide witnesses or if you must bring them with ID.
Often yes, but the minor still needs satisfactory identification under state rules. Many minors lack qualifying ID, so you may need a credible witness where state law permits. Check with the notary before you book.
Wrap-up
A notarized letter is your words plus a notary’s certificate. The certificate records who appeared, where and when the signing happened, and which act was performed. It does not confirm that your statements are true. Decide early whether the recipient needs an acknowledgment or a jurat, since that choice controls how you sign.
Keep the writing tight and factual. Use your legal name and address as shown on your ID, add a short purpose line, list the key facts with dates or limits, and leave space for the notary’s certificate. Choose a convenient place to notarize, bring valid ID, and take the letter unsigned if a jurat is required. Ask for the total price, including any travel or platform charges.
After the appointment, check the certificate for the date, state and county, your name, the act type, and the notary’s signature and seal. Keep a copy for your records, then submit the original or the e-notarized PDF as the recipient requires. If anything is rejected, do not write on notarized pages; ask what is missing and return to the same notary for a corrective certificate or a fresh notarization.
If you are ready to draft, use the step-by-step guide and the samples above. They cover common needs like authorization and proof of residency, and they keep the process simple from first draft to submission.
