Promissory Notes: Do They Need Notarization?

A promissory note is a written promise to repay a debt according to the terms outlined in the loan agreement. Before you sign a promissory note, it is important to find out if you need to have it notarized.

Significance

When a person borrows money from a lender, that person is required to sign a contract before the funds are released to him. A promissory note is a legal document and contract that provides proof that a financial agreement exists between two parties.

Misconceptions

It is a common belief that you must have a notary public present to observe the signing of the promissory note. However, according to the LawDepot website, generally speaking, a promissory note does not have to be notarized to be valid.

Considerations

Although it is not required to have a witness present when you sign the promissory note, consider asking a relative, friend or a notary public to serve as a witness. It is always a good idea to have an additional person present when signing any type of legal document, especially if you ever have to go to court over the debt. Be sure to create a section on the promissory note for the witness to sign.