A New Hampshire notary acknowledgment form is used by notaries to authenticate signatures on legal documents. This process certifies the signer’s identity and their voluntary act of signing. Unlike some notarial acts, the signer is not required to sign in the presence of the notary.
They must, however, present the document along with a valid identification bearing their signature. The notary then verifies the individual’s identity and willingness to sign and completes the form to notarize the document officially.
Legal Considerations
Statute: Notary Public Law and Chapter 456-B – Uniform Law on Notarial Acts.
Form of Acknowledgment: As per § 456-B:8, the acknowledgment must include specific sections stating the type of notarization.
Notary Term of Commission: Five years (RSA § 455:1).
Notary Handbook: The New Hampshire Secretary of State’s website provides detailed information on notarial acts and guidelines for becoming a notary.
Is Online Notarization Legal in New Hampshire?
Yes, online notarization is legal in New Hampshire. RSA § 456-B allows electronic notarization, including remote online notarization, where the notary and signer interact via audio-video communication. This is applicable for individuals both within and outside New Hampshire but within the United States.
How to Notarize
Step 1 – Locate a Notary
Find a public notary, commonly available at financial institutions like Citizens Bank and TD Bank, legal offices, UPS Stores, or through a local private notary service.
Step 2 – Prepare Your Document
Ensure your legal document is fully completed before visiting the notary. If witnesses are necessary, they should sign concurrently with you.
Step 3 – Present Identification
Provide a valid form of identification to the notary for identity verification.
Step 4 – Notarization
The notary will finalize the process by filling out the acknowledgment form and then signing and affixing their seal on the document.
How to Verify a Notary
- Utilize the Notary Locator search tool.
- Enter relevant search criteria, such as city or zip code.
- Review the results, which will include the notary’s contact information and commission details.
- Check their commission status and credentials.
