Best Practices

Notarizing a handwritten document? Stick to Notary basics and you’ll be fine

By Michael Closen, Updated July 14, 2025

A leading Notary law expert answers your questions about notarizing handwritten documents.

What Would You Do? The case of the demanding Notary boss

By David Thun

We ask Notaries what they would do if an employer demanded that a departing Notary surrender their tools to get their final paycheck.

Why it’s important to keep careful records of your Notary fees

By Michael Closen

Notary law expert Michael Closen explains why as states raise maximum Notary fees, it's important for Notaries to keep careful financial records.

3 things customers get wrong — and Notaries need to know — about apostille services

By Gail Delaney

Learn about 3 things customers often misunderstand about apostille services, and what every Notary should know.

Can Notaries accept copies of signer IDs?

By David Thun

Many Notaries ask if they can accept photocopies or photos of a signer's ID. Here's why it's a bad idea.

FeatureThe 4 tools every Notary should have … and why

By David Thun

Learn about the most important tools Notaries need, what they are for and where to get them in this article.

WWYD Answers: The case of the odd Signing Agent assignment

By David Thun

Here are your answers to last week's question about a strange email offering a lucrative Notary signing assignment, but containing strange errors and instructions.

What Would You Do: The case of the odd Signing Agent assignment

By David Thun

What would you do if you got a message offering you a choice NSA assignment, but there was something off about the message? We invite you to share your answers.