What should a notary do if there are blank spaces before notarization?

• A. Do not notarize until blanks are filled or the document is properly completed; advise the signer to finish the document.
• B. Fill the blanks for the signer and notarize afterward.
• C. Notarize as is and note blanks on certificate.
• D. Ask signer to return later with completed document.

Answer: (A)

Blank spaces in a document before notarization signal a risk of later alteration and fraud. The notary’s job is to witness a signer on a complete, properly executed instrument, verify identity, and apply the notarial certificate only to the finished document. If there are blanks, you should not proceed with notarization; instead, advise the signer to finish completing the document and then notarize it. Filling in blanks yourself or notarizing a document with gaps could misrepresent the content and expose you to liability. The right move is to defer the notarization until the document is fully completed.