Documents That Require Notarization in Florida

A power of attorney allows someone to act on behalf of another person in financial, legal, or medical matters. In Florida, most power of attorney documents must be notarized to be legally valid. 

Common reasons people notarize a power of attorney include: 

•  Common reasons people notarize a power of attorney include: 
•  Handling real estate transactions 
•  Authorizing someone to act during travel or illness 

Many real estate transactions require notarized signatures to be recorded or legally recognized. 

Examples of real estate documents that typically require notarization include: 

•  Deeds
•  Mortgage documents 
•  Property affidavits 
• Real Estate closing paperwork 

An affidavit is a written statement that is sworn to be true under oath. In Florida, affidavits must usually be notarized to confirm the identity of the person making the statement. 

 Examples include: 

•  Identity affidavits
•  Residency affidavits 
•  Financial affidavits 
•  Court-related sworn statements  

Estate planning documents often require notarization to ensure they are properly executed and legally recognized.

Examples include: 

• Trust documents 
• Living wills
• Advance healthcare directives
• Some types of wills and estate declarations 

Certain business documents require notarization to verify signatures and ensure authenticity. 

Examples include: 

• Partnership agreements
• Corporate resolutions
• Business contracts
• Vendor agreements

Parents traveling internationally with a minor child may be required to provide a notarized travel consent form. This document confirms that the child has permission to travel with the accompanying adult.