Common Mistakes to Avoid When Getting a Document Notarized

Getting a document notarized might seem simple—but small mistakes can lead to delays, no-shows, or the need to rebook. At Dodo Notary, your trusted notary in Brampton, we’ve helped hundreds of clients with both in-person and online services. Over time, we’ve noticed a few common errors that pop up again and again.

Whether you’re searching for a notary near me for a walk-in visit, or you're using our secure remote notarization, avoiding these mistakes will save you time and frustration.

1. Forgetting to Bring Valid Photo ID

Your identity must be verified before a document can be notarized. If you show up without valid ID, your appointment cannot proceed.

✅ What to do instead:
Always bring original government-issued photo ID, such as:

• Passport

• Driver’s licence

• Ontario photo card

• Permanent resident card

The ID must not be expired and must match the name on your document. If you’re searching for a notary public near me and plan to visit our Brampton office, be sure to check our ID requirements before coming in.

2. Signing the Document Before Meeting the Notary

Many clients think signing in advance saves time—but the notary must witness the signature live, whether in person or on a video call.

✅ What to do instead:
Only sign your document in front of the notary, not beforehand. This is crucial for legal validity.

3. Bringing the Wrong Document or an Incomplete Version

Sometimes clients arrive with the wrong document or a version that’s missing key pages. This can lead to delays or even a wasted appointment.

✅ What to do instead:

• Bring the correct document

• Make sure all required pages are included

• Don’t hesitate to email us the document first—we’ll review it to ensure everything is in order

Looking for a Notary Brampton clients trust? Our team at Dodo Notary is always happy to confirm your documents in advance.

4. Not Knowing What Type of Notarization You Need

Some clients aren’t sure if they need a witnessing, affidavit, certified true copy, or something else. This can cause confusion at the appointment.

✅ What to do instead:
If the document came from a lawyer, embassy, or government office, ask them exactly what’s needed. You can also send it to us beforehand—we’ll help clarify what kind of notarization is required.

5. Arriving Late or Missing an Online Appointment

Our team works on a tight schedule. Missing your slot or showing up late could mean rescheduling—especially for virtual notarization.

✅ What to do instead:

• Arrive at least 5 minutes early

• For online notarization, test your camera and internet ahead of time

• Have your document and ID ready

6. Not Having Payment Ready

We can’t release notarized documents without payment. Some clients are surprised to learn this, especially with online services.

✅ What to do instead:
Check our fees ahead of time, and have your preferred payment method ready. We accept:

• E-transfer

• Credit/debit card

• Cash (in-office)

We make it easy to pay—whether you’re visiting a notary in Brampton or connecting with us online.

Reach Out Before Your Appointment

If you’re unsure about anything—what ID to bring, how to prepare your document, or which notarization you need—just ask! It’s always better to be prepared than to reschedule.

When you're looking for a notary near me who truly cares, Dodo Notary is here to help. We proudly serve clients across Brampton and Ontario, offering fast, professional notarization both in-office and online.

Schedule your notary appointment and get it done right the first time.