A notary public is a state-appointed, impartial official who verifies identity and witnesses the signing of important documents to help prevent fraud. When a notary stamps your document, they are confirming that you are who you say you are, that you signed willingly, and that the signing really happened. That simple act gives documents legal weight and trust. Here is what a notary actually does, what they cannot do, and how to use one in New York.
1 What a notary does
A notary’s core job is to be a neutral witness who protects against fraud. In practice, they:
- Verify identity. They check your valid, unexpired government photo ID.
- Witness the signature. You sign in front of them, not before.
- Confirm willingness. They make sure you are signing freely and appear to understand.
- Apply the stamp and record it. The seal and their journal make it official.
Common documents that need a notary include affidavits, powers of attorney, deeds and real estate papers, consent forms, and many legal and financial documents.
2 What a notary cannot do
Just as important is what a notary is not. A notary is not a lawyer and cannot give legal advice, cannot tell you what to write, and cannot decide whether your document is valid or wise. They also cannot notarize a document if you are not present, if your ID is missing or expired, or if you seem confused or pressured. Their role is to witness, not to judge the content.
3 Types of notary service
You can reach a notary three ways: go to one in person (a bank, shipping store, or office), have a mobile notary come to you, or use a remote online notary who handles it over secure video. The right choice depends on whether you can travel and how fast you need it.
4 What it costs in NY
New York caps the notarial act at $2 per signature in person, or up to $25 per act for remote online notarization. A mobile notary adds a travel fee for coming to you, which is agreed in advance. For a full breakdown, read how much a notary costs in NY.
5 How to use one
Bring your unsigned document and a valid photo ID, meet the notary in person or online, sign in front of them, and they verify, witness, and stamp. That’s it. If you need a notary in NYC, in person, mobile, or online, we cover all three.
Need a notary in NYC?
Mobile, online, or in person across all five boroughs. Most appointments confirmed same day.
A state-appointed, impartial official who verifies identity and witnesses signatures on important documents to help prevent fraud.
What does a notary actually do?
They check your ID, watch you sign, confirm you are signing willingly, and apply an official stamp. They do not give legal advice or judge the document.
What do I need to bring?
Your unsigned document and a valid, unexpired government photo ID. Do not sign until the notary is present.
How much does a notary cost?
In New York, $2 per act in person or up to $25 per act online, plus a travel fee if a notary comes to you.
Related: how to notarize a document and how to find a notary near you in NYC.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Notary rules and fees vary by state and can change. Confirm current requirements before you rely on this.