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Know How to Find the Best Notary for Your Business?

Joyce Morse

April 16, 2015

Even small businesses have an occasional need for a notary.

While they may not have as many things to notarize on a daily basis, it can be time-sensitive when there is need for one.

Why You Would Need a Notary

Many businesses require the services of a notary to witness the signature of documents.

Any document that transfers assets from one person to another would likely require the presence of a notary. Documents that contain private information such as medical records must be notarized before they can be sent to other parties.

Deeds to real estate or other personal property require notarization. Living wills, power of attorneys and trusts also must be notarized. Contracts may need to be notarized to ensure that they are enforceable.

In addition to your own documents, you may want to consider offering a notary service to customers or clients. This can be a convenience that will be appreciated.

How to Find a Notary

If you regularly use the services of a notary, you may want to consider having an employee trained for the job. It is not difficult to become a certified notary and it won't take much time away from other duties.

As the article, "The Latest Developments with Notary Bonds” says many states require the notary to be bonded and you will need to pay for that. The person cannot have a financial interest in the company.

This may not be essential if you only have occasional need for a notary.

Many banks and financial institutions have a notary on staff. Check with the bank where you do business because this service is often free for customers.

Many local governments also have notaries that they allow to help the public. Check with the local courthouse or city hall.

You can also find notaries online by checking with notary associations or other sites.

Ask other small businesses who they use, especially if you are searching for someone who is available outside normal business hours.

Some notaries even travel to the business. This may be an option if you cannot get away to get documents notarized. While this may cost more than going to the notary's location, it can be your best option if your business doesn't allow you to leave.

Do Your Research

Other ways to find notary service include checking with schools, medical facilities and organizations that require the use of a notary.

The person on staff who handles notary duties may be willing to notarize your documents outside of work hours. Even if they are paid employees of the company that they do the notary work for, they may be willing to do occasional notary work outside of the business.

Almost every small business requires the need of a notary at some time.

Determining whether you should hire someone or find a regular notary outside the business will depend on how often you need the services and if anyone within your company is willing to become a notary.

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