What Does a Texas Notary Do?
Over four million people in the United States (over 400,000 in Texas alone!) are notaries public. A common impression among most people is that a Texas notary is just someone who “witnesses” or “verifies” signatures. However, a Texas notary’s duties are a lot more complicated than that. Here is a more complete description:
A Texas notary is a person of proven integrity appointed by the State of Texas to serve the public as an impartial witness in taking acknowledgments, administering oaths and affirmations, and performing other acts authorized by law.
Before being recognized as public officials of the State of Texas, notaries must take an oath in which they swear to support, protect, and defend the constitutions of Texas and the United States
Notaries play an essential role in the functioning of our legal and commercial systems. They hold a position of trust. The public relies upon notaries to ensure integrity in the execution and signing of business, personal, and legal documents. Properly notarized documents can help bind agreements, prevent disputes, and protect against fraud. However, it is important for notaries to keep in mind that notarization does not guarantee the legal sufficiency, authenticity, or truthfulness of a document’s content. Notarization only guarantees:
- The signer has been positively identified by the Texas notary.
- The signer has personally appeared before the Texas notary to sign the document willingly, without any coercion, and for the purpose stated on the document.
- The Texas notary performed the notarial act on the date stated on the notarial certificate.
Legal Disclaimer: The American Association of Notaries is committed to providing accurate and up-to-date information. However, it is important to note that the information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as legal advice. We do not claim to be attorneys and do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information provided. It is your responsibility to know the appropriate notary laws governing your state. You should always seek the advice of a licensed attorney for any legal matters. In no event shall the American Association of Notaries, its employees, or contractors be liable to you for any claims, penalties, losses, damages, or expenses, howsoever arising, including, and without limitation, direct or indirect loss, or consequential loss, out of or in connection with the use of the information contained on any of the American Association of Notaries website pages. Notaries are advised to seek the advice of their state’s notary authorities or attorneys if they have legal questions.
Texas notary bonds and errors and omissions insurance policies provided by this insurance agency, the American Association of Notaries, Inc., are underwritten by Western Surety Company (established 1900). American Association of Notaries is owned by Kal Tabbara, a licensed insurance agent in Texas.