10 Surprising Documents You Didn’t Know Needed a Notary

Michael Parise
Jun 7
2 min read

By Michael “Wheels” Parise – Notary Public, Ordained Minister, Founder of Legally Yours TN

When most people hear “notary,” they think of legal documents or real estate closings. But the truth is—notarization goes far beyond home loans and power of attorney.

In fact, there are dozens of everyday documents that require (or strongly benefit from) having a notary seal. And missing that one simple step? It can delay, deny, or completely invalidate your paperwork.

So let’s break it down—here are 10 surprising documents that might need a notary.

1. School Permission Slips for International Travel

If your child is traveling abroad with a school group, camp, or one parent, many countries require a notarized travel consent form to get through customs or immigration without delay.

2. Car Title Transfers (Private Sales)

Selling your car to a friend or buying from Craigslist? In Tennessee and many other states, you’ll need a notarized title before the sale is legally valid.

3. Letter of Intent to Homeschool

Depending on your county or school board, some homeschool declarations or affidavits must be notarized to be recognized officially.

4. Rental Agreements for Out-of-State Property

If you're managing or leasing property from another state, notarizing lease agreements can protect you in court and confirm your ID and intent.

5. Affidavits for Lost or Stolen IDs, Titles, or Documents

Lost your passport or car title? Most replacement requests require a notarized affidavit stating what happened and confirming your identity.

6. Medical Authorization for Minors

Parents, listen up: If you’re leaving your child in someone else’s care—especially for travel, camps, or medical emergencies—a notarized medical consent form could save a life and a lawsuit.

7. Letters of Recommendation for Immigration or Visa Applications

Personal letters used in immigration proceedings or visa sponsorships often carry more weight when notarized, proving they’re legitimate and signed by the actual author.

8. Bank Forms or Beneficiary Changes

Some financial institutions require notarized signature verification for:

Adding beneficiaries
Authorizing third-party access
Trust or estate transfers

9. Promissory Notes and IOUs

If you’re lending or borrowing money, a notarized promissory note protects both parties. It becomes enforceable in court—and keeps everyone honest.

10. Divorce Agreements & Child Custody Arrangements

While lawyers often prepare these documents, having them notarized prevents any claims of forgery or coercion. It shows the agreement was signed knowingly and willingly.

Why Notarization Matters

A notary public isn’t just stamping a page—we’re:

Verifying identities
Preventing fraud
Protecting your legal interests

And when you work with Legally Yours TN, you get professional, mobile service anywhere you need it—from your front porch to your hospital room.

Need Something Notarized—Today?

I’m Michael “Wheels” Parise, and I make the process simple, fast, and stress-free. Whether it’s a life-changing document or just a form that needs to be done right, I bring 24/7 notary service to YOU—across Franklin, Brentwood, Nashville, and Middle Tennessee.

👉 Book Now at LegallyYoursTN.com🕒 Emergency appointments available📍 Mobile notary service at your location

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