Illinois Notary Primer Practice Exam

What must a notary verify before performing an acknowledgment?

1. The type of document being signed

2. The signer’s identity and willingness to sign

3. Whether the signer is in a rush

4. The location where the signing occurs

The correct answer is: The signer’s identity and willingness to sign

Before performing an acknowledgment, a notary must confirm the signer’s identity and willingness to sign. This step is crucial because it ensures that the person who is signing the document is indeed who they claim to be and that they are doing so voluntarily, without any coercion. This verification process typically involves checking a valid photo ID or other forms of identification that establish the identity of the signer, as well as asking the signer if they understand the contents of the document and are signing it of their own free will. This requirement is fundamental to the integrity of the notarization process, as it protects against fraud and ensures that all parties involved are acting transparently. In contrast, while understanding the type of document, the signer’s urgency, or the signing location can be helpful, they do not have the same critical importance as verifying the identity and willingness of the signer in legal and ethical terms for the notary's duties.