When notarizing for a minor, which step is a key responsibility of the notary?

• A. The minor understands the document
• B. Parental consent is always required
• C. The minor provides two forms of ID
• D. The notary refuses if under 16

Answer: (A)

The main thing the notary must verify when acting for a minor is that the signer understands the document and what signing it means. Ensuring the minor comprehends the instrument helps guarantee the signing is voluntary and accurate, which is essential for a valid notarial act. Parental consent isn’t automatically required for every minor’s document, and requiring two forms of ID isn’t a universal standard for minors. Refusing to notarize solely because the signer is under a certain age isn’t correct either; the focus is on whether the minor understands the document and signs knowingly.