The basics
An impartial witness against fraud
A Michigan notary is commissioned by the Secretary of State to witness signings and deter fraud.
Just as important: a notary is not a lawyer and does not give legal advice.
A notary verifies three things
- ✓Identity — using a valid photo ID.
- ✓Willingness — signing freely.
- ✓Awareness — you understand the document.
Governed by the Michigan Notary Public Act (MCL 55.261 et seq.).
The difference that trips people up
Acknowledgment vs. jurat
The wording on your document's notary block tells us which one it needs.
Acknowledgment
- •You declare you signed willingly.
- •No oath is taken.
- •You may sign earlier, but must appear in person.
- •Typical for: deeds, mortgages, POAs.
Jurat (oath / affirmation)
- •You must sign in front of the notary.
- •You swear/affirm the contents are true.
- •Marked “subscribed and sworn before me.”
- •Typical for: affidavits, sworn statements.
Come prepared
What to bring to your appointment
Having these ready keeps the appointment quick.
- ✓Current government photo ID with photo and signature.
- ✓The complete, unsigned document.
- ✓Any witnesses your document requires, with ID.
- ✓Each signer's full legal name.
- ✓Payment for each act, plus the travel fee.
You must appear in person
Michigan law requires the signer to personally appear. We can't notarize a document dropped off without you.
We come to you
As a mobile, in-person notary, we travel to your home, office, or care facility across the lakeshore.
Quick tips
Make it smooth
- →Check your ID isn't expired and the name matches.
- →When unsure, leave it unsigned.
- →Confirm and bring any required witnesses.
- →Every signer must be present with ID.
Official Michigan resources
Want to verify the rules yourself?
Questions about your document?
We're happy to talk through what you need before you book.