Online notarization covers a lot. Powers of attorney, affidavits, contracts, vehicle forms, real estate documents, business paperwork, you name it. But it’s not for everything, and it’s better to find out before you book than in the middle of your session.
Here are the documents that can’t be notarized online in Texas, and a few where you should double check first.
Wills, codicils and testamentary trusts
This is the big one. The Texas Secretary of State says wills, codicils and testamentary trusts cannot be signed electronically or notarized online by video. That’s because the Texas Estates Code has its own rules for how a will has to be signed and witnessed.
If you need a will signed and notarized, that needs to be done in person. Our mobile notary service can come to you. Just keep in mind that a self-proved will also needs witnesses, so plan for that, and talk to your attorney if you have questions about the will itself.
Documents the notary can’t legally notarize anyway
Some things can’t be notarized whether it’s online or in person:
- Incomplete documents with blank spaces that should be filled in
- Documents where you’re not the signer. You can’t notarize a signature for someone else.
- Certified copies of public records like birth certificates or marriage certificates. Those come from the office that keeps the record, not a notary.
- Documents where the notary has a personal interest
Documents where the receiver might say no
These can be notarized online legally, but the person or office receiving them decides if they’ll accept it. Always ask first:
- Real estate documents for counties outside Texas, or lenders with their own rules
- Court documents, depending on the court
- Documents going overseas. Some foreign countries don’t accept electronically notarized documents, even with an apostille. See Can an Online Notarized Document Be Apostilled?
- Documents that require a wet ink signature. Some agencies still want the original paper with a pen signature.
Documents that need witnesses
Some documents need witnesses in addition to a notary. Depending on the document and the platform, witnesses may be able to join the session, but not always. If your document has a witness line, let us know when you book so we can tell you if it can be done online or if it’s better in person.
Common documents that work great online
So you’re not left thinking online is too limited, here’s what we notarize online all the time:
- Powers of attorney (financial and medical, check with the receiver)
- Affidavits and sworn statements
- Vehicle title and registration forms
- Business contracts and agreements
- Permission to travel letters for minors
- Loan documents and real estate documents (when the lender or title company allows it)
- Employment and school forms
Not sure about your document?
Just send it over or call me at 832-741-3190 and I’ll tell you if it can be done online. If it can’t, we’ll get it done with our mobile notary service instead. If it can, you can book on our online notary page.
Frequently asked questions
Can I notarize a will online in Texas?
No. Per the Texas Secretary of State, wills, codicils and testamentary trusts can’t be signed electronically or notarized online.
Can a power of attorney be notarized online in Texas?
Yes, in most cases. Just confirm with whoever is going to use it, like your bank, that they accept online notarizations.
Are online notarizations legal in Texas?
Yes. Read more in Are Online Notaries Legal in Texas?
