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Do I need to notarize a witness signature on a document?

Photo of woman with long dark hair on phone. She is looking at papers in her hand. Text on image reads NNA Hotline Tip.

I am in Indiana. For clients needing a will and trust notarized using an acknowledgment certificate but also requiring a witness, what certificate wording would I use for the witness signature? And can it be added to the bottom of the acknowledgment certificate, or does it need to be a separate certificate? Do I notarize the witness document?A.C., Indiana

Not all witness signatures require notarization. You should clarify with the signer or whomever issued or is receiving the last will and trust if the witness’s signature requires notarization. If the witness’s signature must be notarized, we would recommend using a separate notarial certificate form for the witness.

For more information please see our article on the different types of witnesses Notaries encounter.

Hotline answers are based on the laws in the state where the question originated and may not reflect the laws of other states. If in doubt, always refer to your own state statutes. – The Editors

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