Maine Notary Acknowledgment Form

A Maine notary acknowledgment form certifies the signing of a document, verifying that it was signed willingly and voluntarily.

To complete notarization, the individual must present a valid ID, declare their willingness to sign, and sign the document in the notary’s presence. Nine notarial certificates signify that the document was executed as the signatory’s free act and deed.

Is Online Notarization Legal in Maine?

Yes, online notarization is permitted under the LD2023, which has allowed remote notarizations since July 1, 2023. (§ 1915)

According to § 1915, notarial officers can use communication technology to carry out notarial acts for individuals not present in person, provided they meet certain conditions. However, the law also requires notarial officers to keep an audiovisual recording of the notarial act. It sets out regulations for the Secretary of State when conducting notarial acts for remote individuals.

It is important to note that notarial officers are not allowed to perform some notarial acts remotely, such as witnessing the marking and sealing of an absentee ballot or solemnizing a marriage from a remote location.

How to Notarize

Step 1 – Locate a Notary Public

You can find a notary public in your area by checking with your local bank or credit union. Banks such as Camden National Bank have significant branches throughout the state, making it easier to find a notary. You can also use private notary services or visit a UPS Store.

Step 2 – Fill Out Your Form

Ensure your document is complete and you have attached the notary acknowledgment form.

Step 3 – Bring a Valid ID

Bring your completed documents and a valid ID when you meet with the notary. The notary will examine your identification and the documents that you wish to have notarized.

Step 4 – Sign and Date Your Documents

Next, sign and date your documents, and the notary will provide their signature, certification expiration date, and seal or stamp.

Step 5 – Verify the Individual’s Identity

The notary will verify your identity, but they may ask for additional identification if you are not personally known to the notary.

Step 6 – Review and Acknowledge the Signature

The notary will review your signature on the document to ensure it matches your identification. If the record is already signed, the notary will check the signature. The notary will require you to sign it in their presence if it is not yet signed.

Step 7 – Notarial Acknowledgement and Certificate Process

After signing the record willingly for the purposes stated in it, the notary will take the notarial acknowledgment by asking if you acknowledge it. Once the notarial acknowledgment is complete, the notary will then proceed to complete the notarial certificate.

How to Verify a Notary

1. Go to the Maine.gov Total Notary Solution page.
2. Enter the notary’s name or commission number in the search box.
3. Click on the “Search” button.
4. Review the search results to find the notary you are looking for.
5. Verify the notary’s information, including commission date, expiration date, and commission number.

How to Write (for Notary)

1. Download the Maine Notary Acknowledgment Form in PDF or Word.
2. Provide the name of the county where you are signing the document, the date, the name of the city or town where you are completing the action, and the name of the person whose written action you are acknowledging.
3. Below that, provide your handwritten signature, your printed name, the date your commission expires, and your stamp or seal.