New York State Notary Practice Exam 2026 – All-in-One Guide to Master Your Certification!

A common use of notary services is to verify the identity of a borrower in a loan transaction. This process is essential as it helps to ensure that the individual signing the loan documents is indeed who they claim to be. By confirming the borrower's identity, the notary public helps to prevent fraud and adds a level of trust and legality to the transaction.

When a notary verifies a signer's identity, they go through a process that involves reviewing identification documents, such as a driver's license or passport, and then witnessing the signing of the documents. This crucial step helps maintain the integrity of the lending process and protects all parties involved by ensuring that the signatory is informed and subscribes to the terms willingly.

Other options, while possibly relevant in context, do not align with the primary functions of a notary. Preparing documents for court, providing legal advice, and negotiating contracts fall outside of the notary's role, as notaries are not permitted to engage in the practice of law or offer legal interpretations or guidance. Their primary responsibility is to serve as impartial witness to the execution of documents, ensuring proper identification and the voluntary nature of the signatures involved.