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Will I invalidate a will if I notarize it?

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I am a Notary Public in Ohio. Is Ohio a state where a last will and testament becomes invalid if notarized?S. V., Ohio

We commend you for having the foresight to ask this question with potentially far-reaching implications. The formalities for the execution of a will are strictly prescribed by statute. We recommend that you obtain counsel on this question from an Ohio estate and probate attorney.

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

Confronted with a tricky notarization? Unsure how to proceed? NNA members have unlimited access to our expertly trained NNA Hotline consultants to help you with all of your notarial questions. Call 1-888-876-0827, Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. PST; Saturday, 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST.


Additional Resources:

Notarize a will


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3 Comments

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kerry turner

18 May 2023

I am interested in becoming a signing agent, and I would like to know what are the correct answers to give a client when confronted with certain questions

National Notary Association

19 May 2023

Hello. What type of questions are you referring to?

Jerry Lucas

29 May 2023

A California court case ruled that a notary's signature did not invalidate a will, but it was considered as a signature of one witness. Laws vary by state.

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