Do Notarized Documents Have an Expiration? What You Need to Know
- Amber Gist
- Sep 26, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 19
When you're in the business of notarizations—whether as a notary or a client—understanding the validity window of a notarized document is crucial. People often assume a notarization “lasts forever” or expires within a set time. But here’s the truth: a notarization itself never expires—though the document’s use or relevance might.
Let’s break it down clearly, with real-world examples and all the essential insights you need.
✅ Do Notarized Documents Expire?
Short answer: No, notarizations do not expire.Once a document is properly notarized—meaning the signer appeared before the notary, provided valid ID, and signed it willingly—it stays valid indefinitely.
However… that doesn't mean the document will be accepted forever.
⚠️ Here’s Where It Gets Tricky:
Agencies or institutions (banks, courts, schools, government offices) may require a notarization to be dated within a certain timeframe (usually within 6 months or 1 year).
Outdated info (e.g., address, legal status, or conditions) can make the document irrelevant or unusable.
📝 Example:
A notarized affidavit from 2018 may still be legally valid, but a judge might ask for a more recent version to reflect the current facts. Think of it like milk—sealed and safe, but nobody wants to drink it after too long in the fridge.
🌐 How Long Are Online Notarizations Valid?
Online notarizations—also called Remote Online Notarizations (RONs)—are just as valid and legal as in-person ones when done correctly.
Once completed:
The notarial act itself does not expire.
However, many states require electronic records and recordings to be stored for 5 to 10 years, depending on their laws (Virginia: 5 years, Texas: 5 years, Florida: 10 years).
💡 Best practice: If you get something notarized online, download and save all final versions and audit trails.
🔌 Online Notarization vs. Electronic Notarization (Yes, They’re Different!)
These terms often get mixed up—but they are not interchangeable.
Feature | Online Notarization (RON) | Electronic Notarization (eNotarization) |
Signer Location | Remote (via webcam) | In-person |
Technology Used | Audio-video tech, ID verification tools | Electronic signature & seal only |
State Approval | Must be authorized in your state | Also requires authorization, but in-person |
Recording Required? | Yes, session must be recorded and stored | No audio/video recording required |
🖥️ Example:
You do a power of attorney notarization from your kitchen table in Texas via Zoom—that’s RON. You meet a client at your office and both sign electronically on an iPad—that’s eNotarization.
❌ Common Mistakes Notaries Make (and How to Avoid Them)
Even veteran notaries slip up! Here are common pitfalls that can mess with the integrity of your notarization:
Failing to check ID properly
Solution: Use a checklist. Always verify the ID meets your state’s standards (not expired, government-issued, etc.).
Missing a signature or date
Solution: Do a final “Scan and Sweep” before completing your certificate.
Using expired notary commissions
Solution: Set renewal alerts 60–90 days before expiration.
Stamping blank documents
Solution: Never, ever. Always wait until everything is complete.
Not recording journal entries (especially online)
Solution: Log every act meticulously, including tech platform used and IP addresses (for RONs).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can a notarized document be rejected?
A: Yes! If it’s outdated, contains incorrect info, or doesn’t meet formatting or agency-specific rules.
Q: Can I use a notarized will from five years ago?
A: Legally, yes. But it’s smart to review wills regularly for changes in life or law.
Q: Does a notary seal need to be renewed to keep documents valid?
A: Nope. If the seal was valid on the date it was used, the notarization is good.
Q: Can I re-notarize an old document?
A: Yes, if the signer re-appears and re-signs. You must treat it like a brand-new notarization.
🔍 Looking for a Notary? We’ve Got You Covered.
Whether you need an online notary for convenience or a traditional in-person notary for estate documents, you don’t need to scroll through endless outdated directories.
Visit NotaryLotus.com to find a verified, professional notary near you.
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If you need an online notary, consider using NotaryLotus.
NotaryLotus is an excellent online directory for finding certified notaries who can handle your notarization needs efficiently. The platform connects you with qualified professionals who offer secure and reliable online notarization services. With its user-friendly interface, you can easily find and schedule appointments with notaries who meet your requirements.
📚 Sources:
American Bar Association: "Remote Online Notarization and eNotarization"
Texas Secretary of State: RON guidelines
NNA: "E-Notarization vs. Remote Online Notarization"
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