Can a notary be a witness on a will in New York?

Yes, as long as the notary is not a beneficiary under the will. Combining the witness role with the notarization of the self-proving affidavit is a common and efficient approach.

Does a witness signature have to be notarized?

It depends on the document. For a standard will under EPTL 3-2.1, the witnesses sign but their signatures are not notarized — only the self-proving affidavit requires notarization. For powers of attorney and certain contracts, the witness signature may need to be acknowledged. Bring the document and we will tell you what it requires.

Can you provide two independent witnesses?

We can arrange two witnesses for will signings or other documents requiring dual witness signatures. Let us know when scheduling so we confirm staffing.

Notary Services

Witness Signatures in New York

Many legal documents require a witness signature in addition to the signer's signature — and sometimes require that witness signature to be notarized or accompanied by a jurat. Wills, powers of attorney, and certain contracts and agreements fall into this category. We provide authenticated witness signature services that stand up to court scrutiny.

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What we do

How we handle witness signatures

We provide qualified witnesses for will executions, powers of attorney, real estate documents, and any agreement requiring witnessed signatures. Where the witness signature must also be notarized, our notary handles both the witnessing and the notarial certificate in a single appointment. Available in-office or via mobile visit.

Availability

In-office appointments are available within 15 minutes during business hours. Mobile same-day availability is common.

Pricing

In-office witness plus notarization: $2 per notarial act. Mobile in Nassau/western Suffolk: $97 travel fee plus $2 per act. If you need two independent witnesses arranged, ask when scheduling.

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FAQ

Questions about witness signatures notarization

Can a notary be a witness on a will in New York?: Yes, as long as the notary is not a beneficiary under the will. Combining the witness role with the notarization of the self-proving affidavit is a common and efficient approach.
Does a witness signature have to be notarized?: It depends on the document. For a standard will under EPTL 3-2.1, the witnesses sign but their signatures are not notarized — only the self-proving affidavit requires notarization. For powers of attorney and certain contracts, the witness signature may need to be acknowledged. Bring the document and we will tell you what it requires.
Can you provide two independent witnesses?: We can arrange two witnesses for will signings or other documents requiring dual witness signatures. Let us know when scheduling so we confirm staffing.

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