A witness is different from the notary. The notary performs the notarial act, while a witness simply observes you sign. Not every document needs a witness. Whether yours does depends on the document itself and on what the party receiving it requires.
When you might need a witness
- The document has a witness signature line
- The organization receiving the document asks for one
- The document type commonly calls for witnessing, such as certain estate-planning forms
If your document does not mention a witness and the recipient has not asked for one, you most likely do not need one. When in doubt, check with the party who will receive the document.
Step by step
Check your document
Look for a witness signature line or instructions that mention witnessing. Confirm any requirement with the recipient.
Tell us in advance
If you know a witness is needed, contact us before your session so it can be arranged and set up correctly.
Have the witness ready
A witness generally needs to be present on camera and may need their own identification. We will confirm what applies to your session.
Witness observes the signing
During the session, the witness observes you sign on the record before the notary completes the notarial act.