General notary work refers to notarizing documents that are not related to real estate transactions or loan closings. A general notary is an impartial, state-commissioned witness who verifies the identity of signers and ensures they are signing documents willingly. 

Ever signed an important document and been told you need a “notary”? For many, this brings to mind complex legal proceedings, but the truth is, a notary’s services are needed for a wide range of everyday documents. This is known as general notary work, and it’s all about preventing fraud and ensuring a document’s integrity. 

A general notary’s role is not to offer legal advice or verify the truthfulness of a document’s content. Their job is to serve as a neutral, third-party witness for the signing of a document. 

Key responsibilities include:

• Verifying identity: Checking a signer’s government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport) to confirm they are who they claim to be.
• Witnessing signatures: Being physically present to watch a document being signed.
• Administering oaths and affirmations: Requiring a signer to make a sworn statement that the information in a document is true and correct.
• Completing notarial certificates: Filling out and affixing their official signature and seal to a document to certify the notarial act. 

Common documents for general notary work

A general notary can handle a wide variety of documents for personal, legal, and business purposes: 

• Affidavits and sworn statements
• Powers of attorney
• Vehicle title transfers
• Medical directives and living wills
• Travel consent letters for minors
• Contracts and business agreements
• Wills and trusts (though notaries cannot draft these)
• Copy certifications of certain original documents 

When to hire a general notary

You need a notary whenever you have an important document that requires an impartial witness to:

• Deter fraud
• Verify the identity of the person signing
• Confirm the person is signing willingly 

For a vast array of life’s important moments, from transferring a car title to preparing a will, a general notary provides the official assurance needed to make the transaction legitimate.