Notarization is the official anti-fraud process. This process lets the parties know that a document is authentic and can be trusted. Every day the process of notarization prevents forged and coerced documents.

Why would I need a notary?

Here is a list of reasons why you may need a notary:

• You need loan documents notarized because you are buying a home.
• A document you have to sign requires that you have an acknowledgement taken by a notary. When taking an acknowledgement, you declare that you have willingly signed a document for the purposes stated therein.
• A document requires you to make an oath or affirmation. 
• You have been asked to complete a notarized affidavit. This might happen, for instance, if you fall victim to identity theft.

Please note that notaries in Illinois cannot certify copies of documents. Only an attorney can do this.

How much does a notary cost?

The state of Illinois has a law that limits how much a notary can charge. Here is a breakdown of those limits:

• A maximum of $10 per form
• A maximum of $10 per page for the translation of a non-English language into English
• A maximum of $5 for notarizing
• A maximum of $3 to do any procedures necessary to obtain a required document
• A maximum of $75 for one complete application
• A maximum of $25 for any electronic notarial act

Where should I get my documents notarized?

There are many places you can get your documents notarized. A good place to start may be your local library. Some libraries offer free notary services for library card holders and or the public, like the Lincoln Library, West Chicago Public Library, Glenview Public Library, Fondulac District Library, Downers Grove Public Library, and many others.

Other libraries charge $1 or $2 per notary signature like Urbana Free Public Library, Evanston Public Library, Westmont Public Library, and many others.

Many banks have a notary on staff for their customers. You can check with your bank to see if you can get something notarized there. 

Do I have to get my documents notarized in person?

No. Illinois notaries can notarize for signers in any location, so long as the notaries themselves are in Illinois. The Secretary of State sets $25 as the maximum fee per remote online notarization.

With remote notarization, a signer appears before the notary using audio-visual technology over the internet instead of being present in the same room. Documents are uploaded and sent to the signer, the authentication process occurs, then the notary joins the signer for a two-way audio/video session which is recorded, and copies of the executed documents are returned to the parties involved.

How can I prepare for my notary appointment?

You can prepare for your appointment by asking the notary public:

• What type of documents should I bring to the appointment?
• If there are more than one signers required, do they all have to be present at the same appointment?
• How much will this service cost?

You should also gather the materials you will need to bring to the appointment. You will need a government-issued photo identification that contains your signature. This can be an Illinois Driver’s License, Illinois State Identification Card, or a U.S. Passport. You should also bring the unsigned document you need.