I have a question regarding a client’s request to certify a copy of their I-797 form. The form is a one-page, double-sided document, with the actual form on one side and instructions on the other side. The client wants the copy to be printed on two separate pages (each side on its own page), resulting in a two-page document. Should I label the pages as “Page 1 of 1” and “Page 2 of 1,” and then stamp the side of both pages with my Notary stamp or use a different format? Should I stamp and fill in a notarial certificate on the second page and place my Notary stamp next to the certificate? Is there a best practice for indicating that the two pages together represent a certified copy of a single original page? — S.T., Oregon
It would be preferable to copy certify the document in the same format in which it appears, in this case as a double-sided single document. However, if your photocopier does not allow you to make double-sided copies, you can print each side of the original document on a separate page to create a two-page copy. You should not write or label the pages with “Page 1 of 2” or “Page 2 of 2” because you would be adding text to the copy that doesn’t appear in the original. If you have a stamp with copy certification certificate wording and there is enough space on the second page of the copy, you may apply the stamp there and complete the notarial certificate wording. If there is not enough room, or if you prefer, you may attach a separate copy certification certificate after the second page instead. No matter the number of pages, staple all pages together. Do not apply your official Notary stamp on any page other than the final page that contains the copy certificate notarial certificate.
Please remember that not all states authorize Notaries to certify copies of documents, and some states restrict what types of documents may be certified copies. For more information and information about your state’s rules, please see our article and video on how to certify a copy of a 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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