Is It Notarized or Notarised? Spelling Differences
Short answer
Both "notarized" and "notarised" mean the same official process of certifying a document by a notary public; the difference is simply American English spelling ("notarized") versus British English spelling ("notarised"). In the U.S., "notarized" is the correct and commonly used form for documents verified by a notary public.
What Does "Notarized" or "Notarised" Mean?
The words "notarized" and "notarised" describe a document that has been officially certified by a notary public. A notary public is a person authorized by a government authority to witness signatures, verify the identity of signers, and administer oaths to help prevent fraud. When a document is notarized, the notary confirms the signer’s identity, witnesses the signing, and then adds an official seal or stamp along with their signature and the date.
The key difference between "notarized" and "notarised" is based on regional spelling conventions. American English uses "notarized" with a "z," while British English and other varieties of English favor "notarised" with an "s." Both spellings refer to the same notarization process and are correct depending on the country or context.
Understanding this distinction is helpful when reading or writing official documents, especially if you are dealing with international paperwork or searching for information online. Using the correct spelling for your region can improve clarity and avoid confusion.
How Does the Notarization Process Work?
The notarization process is a formal procedure that involves several important steps to confirm the authenticity of signatures and documents. Here is how it generally works:
- Appear in Person Before a Notary: The person signing the document must personally meet the notary public. This face-to-face meeting allows the notary to verify identity and witness the signing.
- Provide Valid Identification: The signer must present an official photo ID, such as a state driver’s license, passport, or government-issued identification card, to prove their identity.
- Review the Document: The notary ensures the signer understands what they are signing and that they are signing voluntarily, without coercion.
- Sign the Document in Presence of the Notary: The signer must sign the document while the notary watches.
- Notary Certifies the Document: The notary completes a certificate that typically includes the date, location, their signature, and official seal or stamp.
Example Scenario
Suppose you are selling your car and need to transfer the title. The DMV requires the title transfer form to be notarized. You take the form, unsigned, to a notary public at a bank. You show your driver’s license, the notary confirms your identity, and watches you sign the form. The notary then signs, dates, and stamps the form to certify the signature. The notarized form is now accepted by the DMV to complete the sale.
This process ensures that the document is authentic and protects all parties from fraud or misrepresentation.
Why Does the Spelling Difference Matter?
The spelling difference between "notarized" and "notarised" matters mainly for clarity, accuracy, and professionalism in communication. When writing or speaking about the notarization process, using the correct spelling for your region:
- Reflects proper language conventions, making your documents or communication look polished and professional.
- Helps avoid confusion when working with official forms, legal documents, or government agencies.
- Ensures you find the most relevant information when searching online or in legal resources.
For example, if you live in the United States, always use "notarized" with a "z." If you live in the United Kingdom or Commonwealth countries, "notarised" with an "s" is appropriate. Mixing the spellings in formal documents can create doubts or look unprofessional.
Additionally, knowing this difference can help when interpreting documents from other countries or when dealing with international transactions, such as property purchases or contracts signed abroad.
What Does the Verb "Notarize" Mean and How Is It Used?
"Notarize" (American English) or "notarise" (British English) is the verb referring to the act of performing a notarization. It means to officially certify a document by witnessing the signature and verifying the signer’s identity.
For example:
- "I need to notarize my affidavit before submitting it to the court."
- "The contract must be notarised before it is legally valid."
The verb form is important because it describes the action a notary public performs. People sometimes confuse the verb with the adjective form "notarized," which describes the status of a document after it has been certified.
Using "Notarize" in a Sentence
- Correct: "Please notarize this power of attorney form."
- Incorrect: "Please notarized this form." (should be "Please notarize")
Remember the Difference
- Notarize = action of certifying a document.
- Notarized = describes a document that has already been certified.
Understanding the verb and adjective forms helps communicate clearly when requesting or describing notarization.
What Are Commonly Confused Terms Related to Notarization?
Several legal terms related to notarization can be confusing. Here are some clarifications:
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Notary | The person authorized to perform notarizations. |
| Notarized | A document that has been certified by a notary. |
| Notary Public | The official title for a notary in the United States. |
| Notary Stamp/Seal | The official mark a notary places on a document to certify it. |
| Affidavit | A written statement sworn to be true, often notarized but distinct from notarization itself. |
| Power of Attorney | A document granting someone authority to act on another’s behalf, often notarized. |
Confusing these terms can cause misunderstandings, especially in legal or administrative processes. For more details, see the articles on Notary vs Notarized: What’s the Difference? and Notary vs Affidavit: Definitions and Differences.
What Should You Do When You Need a Document Notarized?
If you need a document notarized, follow these practical steps to prepare:
- Find a Notary Public Notaries can be found at banks, law offices, libraries, post offices, and some shipping stores. Some employers or government offices also offer notary services.
- Bring the Unsigned Document Do not sign the document before meeting the notary. The notary must witness your signature.
- Bring Valid Identification A government-issued photo ID like a driver’s license or passport is usually required. Check with the notary beforehand to confirm acceptable IDs.
- Prepare Payment Notary fees vary by state and location but typically range between $5 and $15 per signature. Ask about fees in advance.
- Meet the Notary and Sign The notary will review your ID, watch you sign, and then complete the notarization.
- Keep the Notarized Document Safe Store the notarized document securely as it often serves as official proof for legal, financial, or administrative purposes.
If you’re unsure if your document requires notarization or need help locating a notary, contact your local government office or a legal aid organization.
Why Is Notarization Important?
Notarization plays a vital role in many legal and financial transactions by:
- Verifying Identity: Confirms the person signing is who they claim to be.
- Preventing Fraud: Ensures signatures are genuine and voluntary.
- Adding Legal Weight: Many institutions require notarized documents to accept them as valid.
- Providing Record: The notary keeps a record of the notarization, which can be referenced if questions arise.
Documents commonly requiring notarization include wills, deeds, contracts, powers of attorney, and affidavits. Without notarization, some documents may be rejected by courts, government agencies, or financial institutions.
For example, if you sign a loan agreement, notarization assures the lender that you signed willingly and are the legitimate borrower, reducing the risk of fraud.
Can Documents Be Notarized Remotely or Online?
Some states now allow online notarization, also called remote notarization, where the signer and notary meet via secure video calls and electronic signatures replace physical ones. However, this is not yet permitted everywhere and rules vary by state.
If you want to notarize a document online:
- Check your state’s laws to confirm if remote notarization is allowed.
- Use an authorized online notary platform that complies with state regulations.
- Prepare the same documents and IDs as you would for an in-person notarization.
This option can be convenient but is still less common than traditional notarization. If online notarization isn’t available, you will need to visit a notary in person.
Frequently asked questions
Is a notarized document legally binding?
Notarization confirms the identity of the signer and that the document was signed willingly but does not itself make a document legally binding. The enforceability depends on the document’s content and applicable laws.
Can I sign a document before seeing a notary?
No. The notary must witness your signature, so you need to sign the document in the notary’s presence.
How much does notarization cost?
Fees vary by state and location, typically $5 to $15 per signature. Some banks or employers may offer free notary services.
What’s the difference between a notary and a notary public?
They are the same. "Notary public" is the full official title for the person authorized to notarize documents.
Are online notarizations accepted everywhere?
No. Remote notarization is allowed only in some states. Check local rules before using online notary services.
What documents usually need notarization?
Common documents include property deeds, wills, affidavits, powers of attorney, contracts, and certain financial documents.