When transferring ownership of valuable property—like a car, boat, or equipment—properly notarizing the bill of sale ensures the process is secure, clear, and legally binding. A correctly notarized document protects both buyers and sellers by verifying identities, confirming willingness to transact, and providing documented proof of the transfer. This simple guide breaks down the key steps involved in notarizing a bill of sale, helping you complete the process efficiently and accurately.
Step 1: Verify Identity of All Parties Involved
Verifying the identity of each party involved is an essential first step in notarizing a bill of sale. Before notarizing, the notary carefully reviews acceptable forms of identification, such as driver’s licenses, state-issued IDs, passports, or military IDs. Each form of identification must include the person’s photo, signature, and other identifying information. Proper identity verification helps prevent fraud, ensuring everyone involved in the transaction is who they claim to be.
Step 2: Confirm Document Completeness and Accuracy
A bill of sale must be fully completed before notarization. The notary reviews the document for accuracy, clarity, and completeness, ensuring there are no blank fields or ambiguous terms. Each essential detail—such as item description, purchase price, transaction date, and information about buyer and seller—should be clearly filled out. Omitting details or making mistakes can lead to disputes or invalid documents later, making this verification step important.
Step 3: Complete the Notarial Certificate
Once identities are verified and the bill of sale is reviewed, the notary fills out the notarial certificate. Certificates typically take one of two forms: an acknowledgment or a jurat. An acknowledgment confirms that signers willingly signed the document, while a jurat affirms they swore or attested that the document’s contents are truthful. Clearly completing the notarial certificate, including signatures, dates, and official seals, ensures the document will be legally recognized.
Step 4: Witness Signatures in Person
A core responsibility of the notary is witnessing the actual signing of the document. Each signer must appear personally before the notary to sign. Signatures completed before the notarization are not valid, as the notary must confirm willingness and awareness during signing. Witnessing the signing firsthand ensures authenticity, reducing the risks of disputes or future legal issues.
Step 5: Record the Notarial Act in a Journal
Notaries are required to keep an accurate journal recording each notarization. Details typically recorded include the date, names of parties involved, description of the document, types of identification used, and signatures of those involved. Proper record-keeping offers protection for everyone involved and serves as evidence if questions about the transaction arise later.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Notarization
Avoiding common notarization mistakes can save time, stress, and potential legal complications. Typical errors include incomplete documents, improper identification, and notarizing pre-signed documents. Careful attention to detail helps prevent such issues, ensuring a smooth notarization process.
Benefits of Using a Mobile Notary for Bills of Sale in the Minneapolis Area
Hiring a mobile notary simplifies the process, particularly for seniors or individuals unable to travel easily. Mobile notaries like Henry Young come directly to your home, care facility, or any convenient location, providing hassle-free notarization. This convenience ensures that seniors or those facing mobility challenges can handle important paperwork comfortably, confidently, and accurately.
If you want to get a bill of sale or any other important documents notarized, contact us today or set up an appointment.
This article provides general information about notary services and does not constitute legal advice. Notary laws and requirements vary by state, so be sure to check your local regulations or consult a qualified professional for guidance in your jurisdiction.