Can I notarize proof of life certificates from foreign countries? — T.L., New York
It depends. Typically, proof of life certificates request that a Notary Public to verify that person is still alive. Verifying if someone is alive is not an authorized notarial act in New York state, but whether you can perform a notarial act on one depends on the form used. If you are only being asked to take the acknowledgment of someone’s signature or perform a jurat on a proof of life document, then you may follow your regular notarial steps to notarize the signature.
Our notarizing proof of life documents FAQ has more information about these documents and how to handle them in different states.
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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