Does the signer’s name on the document have to be exactly the same as it appears on the ID? For instance, I have a client whose ID reads "Mary Jane Smith-Jones", but the document reads "Mary Jones" and the client signs "Mary Jones". What name do I put in my notary certificate? — V.N., Nevada
Not necessarily. The name you are notarizing is the name as it appears on the document. As the Notary, you must decide whether the ID of “Mary Jane Smith-Jones” adequately proves her identity as “Mary Jones.” The name on the ID is one piece of information that can help you make that determination. The other features of the ID — physical description, photo, and age as determined from noting the date of birth — can also help you as well.
You would enter the name as it appears on the document into the Notary certificate wording. If you wish, you may make a notation in your journal regarding the name on the identification vs. the name on the document.
Hotline answers are based on the laws in the state where the question originated and may not reflect the laws of other states. If in doubt, always refer to your own state statutes. – The Editors
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