Can I notarize my wife’s signature? She is a CPA, and I am an accountant in her office.
- M.W., Auburn, New York.
The answer for you is yes. However, the NNA recommends that you don't. Although your state's Notary laws do not specifically prohibit notarizing for family members, the NNA and state officials strongly discourage Notaries from notarizing for persons related by blood or marriage. Many states do prohibit notarizing for spouses, and even if they don't if you notarize for your wife you may violate the statutes prohibiting a direct beneficial interest. The simnple fact that you notarized a document for your spouse could call the transaction into question.
Confronted with a tricky notarization? Unsure how to proceed? NNA members have unlimited access to our expertly trained NNA Hotline counselors to help you with all of your notarial questions. Call (888) 876-0827, Monday through Friday, 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. PST; Saturday, 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST