Indiana notaries can legally notarize a wide variety of documents - including affidavits, real estate deeds, power of attorney forms, and travel consent letters. This guide includes searchable tables with document types, alternate names, and what notaries in Indiana can and cannot do. If you’re searching for “notary near me in Indiana” or looking to notarize a specific document, this guide will help you find answers quickly.
If you've been looking for a "notary near me in Indiana," you might be wondering whether your specific document can actually be notarized. I get this question all the time - whether it's a real estate contract, power of attorney, car title, or even a travel consent form for a child, it's important to know exactly what a notary public in Indiana can and can’t handle.
That’s why I put together this guide. It walks you through the types of documents Indiana notaries are allowed to notarize - and just as importantly, the ones we can’t. I’ve also included searchable tables, alternate names you might hear for the same forms, and tips to make sure your notarization goes smoothly and legally.
Whether you’re dealing with legal paperwork, business forms, or medical releases, I’m here to help make things easier. Let’s clear up the confusion so you can find the right notary services for your situation.
What Can an Indiana Notary Notarize?
Indiana notaries are authorized to perform a range of notarial acts, including acknowledgments, jurats, oaths, affirmations, and copy certifications. These actions apply to personal, business, legal, real estate, financial, and government-related documents.
“If a document includes a signature, an intent to sign, and a notarial certificate — chances are, an Indiana notary can notarize it.”
— Laina Molaski, on Indiana notary eligibility
What makes this article unique is that it includes common and alternate names for documents, helping people who may not know the official legal term. For example, someone looking to notarize a “car title form” might not realize they need a “vehicle title transfer.”
Document Types and Alternate Names
Personal & Legal Documents
Common Name
Also Known As
Affidavit
Sworn statement, written testimony, notarized statement
Acknowledgment
Signature verification, signing confirmation
Oath/Affirmation
Swearing-in, jurat, truth statement
Power of Attorney (POA)
Financial POA, medical POA, durable power of attorney
Living Will
Advance healthcare directive, medical directive
Will (not self-proving)
Last will and testament
Trust Document
Revocable trust, living trust
Parental Consent Form
Travel consent form, child travel permission
Name Change Document
Legal name change form, court order for name change
Closing packet, home sale paperwork, settlement documents
Business & Financial Documents
Common Name
Also Known As
Business Agreement
Contract, business deal paperwork
Loan Document
Personal loan agreement, bank loan papers
Bill of Sale
Sales agreement, proof of purchase
Promissory Note
IOU, loan repayment agreement
Corporate Resolution
Board decision, company authorization form
Partnership Agreement
Business partner contract, joint venture agreement
Articles of Incorporation
Business formation papers, corporate filing docs
Government & School Forms
Common Name
Also Known As
Passport Consent Form (DS-3053)
Child passport authorization
School Transcript/Diploma
Notaries cannot certify official school records themselves, but they can notarize a sworn affidavit from the document holder or witness a copy being made, if permitted.
Medical Authorization Form
HIPAA release, medical release form - Most HIPAA release forms and medical authorizations can be notarized, but it’s best to check whether your healthcare provider requires a specific version or witness signatures in addition to notarization.
Immunization Form
Shot record verification
Vehicle Title Transfer
Car title form, BMV form, auto ownership form
Other Notarizable Documents
Common Name
Also Known As
Copy Certification
Certified true copy, notarized copy - Note: Indiana notaries may certify copies only if the document is not a vital record and the copy is made in their presence. They cannot certify copies of government-issued documents like birth certificates, passports, or marriage licenses.
Employment Verification
Job letter, proof of employment
Lease Agreement
Rental agreement, housing lease
Travel Authorization
Travel permission form, minor travel form
Financial Statement
Income verification, notarized bank letter
Non-Notarizable Documents (FYI)
Invalid for Notarization
Why
Birth/Death Certificates
Must be issued by vital records office
Marriage License
Certified by county clerk only
Immigration Forms (e.g., I-130)
Not allowed unless notary is also an immigration consultant or attorney
Blank or Incomplete Forms
Not legally valid to notarize
Photographs
No legal notarial act applies
Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For questions about specific documents or legal procedures, please consult with a licensed attorney or the Indiana Secretary of State.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents can a notary notarize in Indiana?
Notaries in Indiana can notarize affidavits, powers of attorney, real estate deeds, business contracts, car title transfers, medical releases, and more. Scroll up for full searchable tables.
Can a notary notarize a will in Indiana?
In Indiana, a notary may notarize a will that is not self-proving. For a will to be self-proving, it must be signed by the testator and two witnesses in the presence of a notary. Notaries should not notarize a will unless they fully understand the legal requirements, or the document includes the proper self-proving affidavit section.
Can a notary notarize for family members?
Indiana notaries are advised to avoid notarizing documents for close family members where a financial or personal conflict of interest could exist.
Can a notary notarize a birth certificate or marriage license?
No. Certified copies of vital records must come directly from the issuing government office. Notaries cannot certify or notarize original or copied birth or marriage certificates.
Does Indiana allow online or remote notarization?
Yes. Remote Online Notarization (RON) is legal in Indiana, but the notary must be specially approved and use a state-authorized digital platform.
What kind of ID do I need for notarization in Indiana?
A valid, government-issued photo ID is required — such as a driver’s license, state ID, military ID, or passport.
Laina Molaski is a certified mobile notary and experienced loan signing agent serving Central Indiana with years of hands-on expertise in notarized document services. She holds a Ph.D. in Business, an M.B.A., and an M.A. in Creative Writing - credentials that reflect both her academic depth and creative drive. Laina was inspired to enter the field after struggling to find a notary for her house-bound father - an experience that shaped her commitment to making notary services more accessible. Laina is also a university professor, published author of cozy mysteries and small-town romance, and founder of an independent publishing press. Known for her professionalism and warm approach, she brings clarity and care to every signing. Connect with Laina on LinkedIn
Automated page speed optimizations for fast site performance
