Can I notarize a document that is already signed?

Whether a pre-signed document can be notarized depends on the type of notarial act required:

Acknowledgments — Yes, pre-signing is allowed:

• The signer may sign the document before the notary appointment
• The signer must still personally appear before the notary
• The signer must acknowledge that the signature is theirs and was made voluntarily
• Common for: real estate deeds, loan documents, contracts

Jurats — No, the document must be signed in front of the notary:

• The signer must sign the document in the notary's presence
• The signer must take an oath or affirmation that the contents are true
• If already signed, you may need to re-sign in the notary's presence
• Common for: affidavits, sworn statements, court documents

If you are unsure which type your document requires, look at the notarial certificate wording. "Subscribed and sworn before me" means jurat. "Acknowledged before me" means acknowledgment. Call 435-565-1333 for guidance.