When I'm notarizing a document, and the document asks that two "witnesses" sign in addition to the Notary, are there any requirements for who those witnesses may be? Is it necessary, for example, that they know the principal? — K.B., Illinois
Without knowing the type of document, it is impossible to provide any answer about the qualifications of witnesses. The safest course of action is to have the signer confirm with their attorney or with the document-issuing or receiving agency if there are qualifications for the witnesses.
Witness-related requests during notarizations can be confusing because there are many different types of "witnesses" who may be involved with a document. Our guide to different witnesses that may be encountered by Notaries provides more information.
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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