Understanding Notarization
What a Notary Does
A notary public is a trusted witness — someone the State of Alaska appoints to help protect you from fraud and misunderstanding.
My role is to make sure every signature is clear, voluntary, and secure.
• Verify the signer’s identity
• Confirm the signer understands what they’re signing
• Ensure the signer is acting willingly
• Complete and sign the notarial certificate
• Record the notarization in a secure journal
I don’t create documents or give legal advice — my job is to support your peace of mind and protect your signature.
Common Notarial Services in Alaska
Notarization shows that a signature is authentic and made willingly. Here are some of the most common documents I help with:
• Power of Attorney (POA)
• Real estate documents (deeds, refinance, HELOCs)
• Wills, affidavits, and sworn statements
• School / employment / travel letters
• Vehicle title transfers
• Remote Online Notarization (RON) for signers anywhere
Notaries cannot prepare documents, choose wording, or certify vital records like birth or death certificates. If you’re unsure what form you need, I’ll help point you toward resources — and once you have your document, I’ll take it from there.
Your ID & Verification Process
Identity verification is how I protect you and your document. What that looks like depends on whether we meet in-person or online.
For In-Person Visits
Acceptable IDs include:
- Alaska driver’s license or state ID
- U.S. passport
- Military or tribal ID with signature
For Remote Online Notarization (RON)
A secure platform guides you through:
- Knowledge-Based Authentication: answer a few quick questions only you would know
- Credential Analysis: your ID is scanned and verified
- Live video meeting: we sign together from the screen
You don’t have to figure any of this out alone — I’ll walk you through each step gently.
What’s the difference between notarizing and legalizing a document?
Notarization confirms the signer’s identity and willingness. Legalization (apostille) is done by the Alaska Lieutenant Governor’s office for international documents.
Did You Know?
• Alaska notaries renew their commissions every 4 years.
• Every notarization must be recorded in a secure journal.
• Each remote notarization uses a unique digital certificate for online signings.
Notary Facts & FAQs
If you have a question that isn’t listed here, you’re always welcome to reach out.
I’m happy to help guide you through the details.
Usually no — I need to witness the signature unless your document allows acknowledgment of a signature you’ve already made.
We’ll pause and find a safe, legal way forward. I can help you understand your options for acceptable identification.
Yes. Remote Online Notarization (RON) was approved in Alaska to make notarization more accessible — especially for elders and rural residents. I use a secure, state-approved platform to protect your privacy and your document.
That’s okay. I bring loose-leaf certificates to attach to your document. They don’t change or replace what you’ve written — they simply make your notarization official.
Fees vary depending on whether we meet in person, online, or at your location. You’ll always know your total before we begin.
Notaries cannot prepare or interpret legal documents, give legal or tax advice, or notarize incomplete paperwork. If you’re ever unsure, I’ll help you find the right next step.
You’re in Safe Hands
Every notarization is personal — because every signature tells a story. Whether we meet online or in person, my goal is to make the process calm, clear, and comfortable from start to finish.
If you’re ready to schedule or simply want to ask a question, I’m happy to help.
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