Notary Public FAQ — Low Fee Notary Public Scarborough

Question 1

What do I need to bring to notarize my signature?

Accepted Answer

Please bring: The unsigned document. Valid ID. We accept either: Option 1: One government-issued photo ID, such as a passport, driver's licence, PR card, citizenship card, or OHIP card. Option 2: Two government-issued non-photo IDs, such as a birth certificate or SIN card.

Question 2

Do I need to come in person?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You must come in person, show your ID, and sign the document in front of the Notary. Someone else cannot bring your ID for you.

Question 3

How does notarizing a signature work?

Accepted Answer

It is very simple: We check your ID. You sign the document in front of the Notary. The Notary signs and puts the official Notary seal on the document. That's it!

Question 4

How long does it take?

Accepted Answer

Most signature notarizations take about 5 minutes. It may take longer if you have several documents or signatures.

Question 5

How much does it cost?

Accepted Answer

The first notarization is $17.00. If you have several notarizations, we offer lower fees based on the number required.

Question 6

Do I pay for each signature?

Accepted Answer

The fee is based on the number of Notary signatures and seals needed.

Question 7

What if I need two Notary signatures and two seals?

Accepted Answer

You will be charged for two Notary signatures and two seals. The number of pages does not matter. The fee is based on the number of Notary signatures and seals required.

Question 8

What is the difference between witnessing and notarizing a signature?

Accepted Answer

Witnessing: A person watches you sign the document and then signs as a witness. Notarizing: A Notary checks your ID, watches you sign, and then signs and seals the document. A Notary is acting in their official capacity when notarizing your signature.

Question 9

What is an acknowledgment?

Accepted Answer

An acknowledgment means you tell the Notary that: The signature on the document is yours. You signed the document willingly. You signed it for its intended purpose. You may have signed the document before meeting the Notary.

Question 10

Why should I notarize my signature?

Accepted Answer

A notarization provides proof that: The Notary checked your ID. You personally appeared before the Notary. The Notary witnessed your signature or confirmed that the signature was yours. This can be useful if someone later questions your signature.

Question 11

Can you notarize documents for use outside Ontario or Canada?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We can notarize many types of documents. However, you should check with the organization receiving the document to make sure they accept an Ontario Notary's signature and seal. Some documents may need additional authentication.

Question 12

Can you notarize a document written in another language?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We can notarize documents written in any language. The Notary needs to identify you and watch you sign the document. If your name is not printed in English, you may also be asked to print your name in English beside your signature.

Question 13

Who can be a witness?

Accepted Answer

A witness should normally be someone who is not involved in the agreement and does not benefit from it. A neutral person is usually the best choice. The witness should be legally old enough to act as a witness and able to understand what they are doing.

Question 14

What is a certified true copy?

Accepted Answer

A certified true copy is a copy of an original document that a Notary has checked and confirmed is a true copy of the original. For example, you bring us your original document and a photocopy. We will compare the photocopy with the original and certify it.

Question 15

Is a notarized copy the same as a certified true copy?

Accepted Answer

In many cases, these terms are used to mean the same thing. The Notary checks the copy against the original and confirms that it is a true copy.

Question 16

How long does it take to certify a copy?

Accepted Answer

It usually takes about 5 minutes for up to 5 copies. It may take longer if you have more documents or copies.

Question 17

What do I need to bring to certify a copy?

Accepted Answer

Please bring: The original document. A photocopy of the document. Valid ID.

Question 18

Do I have to hold a religious book or raise my hand for an Oath or Affirmation?

Accepted Answer

No. You do not have to hold a religious book but you have to raise your hand.

Question 19

What is a deponent?

Accepted Answer

A deponent is simply the person who is making an Oath, Affirmation, or Solemn Declaration. In simple words, it is the person who is confirming that the information they are giving is true.

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