Notarization vs. Attestation: What’s the difference? 

Notarization  |    Oct 10, 2024      | By: Harbir Singh

If you are in the process of dealing with legal documents, it is likely you have heard of the term’s “notarization” and “attestation.” This may leave you wondering what the difference between both these terms is. Thankfully, we are here to help you better understand which service it is that you need, and who can provide you with this service.

Keep reading below for a detailed breakdown of notarization and attestation.

Notarization: What is it?

During the process of notarization, a notary public verifies the identity of the person signing a document, verifying that they are in fact who they claim to be. The original document is presented to the notary public and the notary public signs and seals the document, making the document legally valid.

The process includes:

1.  Identity verification: The notary public will verify your identity, ensure to take a valid government I.D. with you to your notary appointment.

2.  Views the document: The notary will check the legality of your document.

3.  Stamp of approval: The notary public will sign and stamp your document if everything looks good.

Attestation: What is it?

The attestation process involves a witness who does not necessarily have to be a notary public. This person can be a commissioner of oaths, lawyer, notary, or in certain cases a trusted professional who is authorized to witness signatures. The witness confirms the document has been signed in their presence and confirms the person’s identity.

The attestation process can be used for things like employment or visa applications, foreign legal documents (like birth certificates, contracts, or educational certificates), or company documents (like business contracts or agreements needing third-party verification).

Which One Do You Need?

The notarization and attestation process both include the process of ensuring your documents are genuine, but both processes do not require a notary. The notarization process requires a notary public and is a more formal process, whereas, the attestation process can be done by a witness or commissioner of oaths, depending upon the document needing attestation.

Contact HSB Legal Services & Notary Public

If you are looking for a reliable notary near you contact us today. We offer in-person, online and mobile notary services.

Whether you are looking for a notary in Etobicoke, notary near Brampton, notary near Mississauga, notary in Toronto, notary near Humber College, notary near Vaughan, notary near Woodbridge, or a notary near you, contact us today.