We are going to focus on acknowledgments in this blog. The most common signing for notaries is Acknowledgments (ACK) and Jurats. You may click soon click on Jurat to learn about that type of notarization. Stay tuned. 

So, what is a document called, Acknowledgment? An ACK ensures that the signer is the person named on the paper. So, the job of the Notary Public (NP or notary) is to identify the signer. It’s that simple. 

The flexibility of the ACK is that a person may sign it ahead of time. There is no need to sign it in front of the NP. However, the notary must take a few steps and still identify the signer before sealing it. 

The client must first know that they must physically appear in front of the NP in California. In other states, they allow webcams but not in the Golden State. 

Next, the notary cannot use personal knowledge. What do I mean by that? By law, notaries must identify everyone. Notaries are not allowed to notarize for friends and family without proper identification (ID) simply because they know them. We must take your ID, such as a driver’s license. 

Another critical aspect of notaries is that we cannot tell clients which documents they need to sign. What do I mean by that? Sometimes clients don’t know whether they need an ACK or Jurat. Well, they must ask an attorney for that advice. The notary may also explain the function of each document, and then the client can make an educated decision.  

This sums of Acknowledgment. There are other factors that may take place, such as what type of identifications you may use. Also, if you don't have an identification present, may you use a witness?

I will also provide you with more details on this matter. But you may shoot me a message or call me for further details.  

I hope this helps clarify some of your concerns. Have a fantastic notary day! And follow me on Instagram @mobile.notaryvictorville Shoot me a DM if you have a question, or if you need notarization.

I am a National Notary Association (NNA) member. Trained and Certified Notary Signing Agent (NSA), and a state-approved Notary Public by the Secretary of State, California. Also, I trained and was certified as Notary Public and NSA at Eznotaryclass.com.