Getting Trust Documents Notarized
Updated 2026-09-19
Trust agreements, amendments, certifications of trust and deeds transferring property into a trust are commonly notarized so banks and recording offices will accept them. The trustor or trustee signs in front of the notary with photo identification, following the signing instructions from the drafting attorney.
Documents in a typical trust package
- The trust agreement or declaration of trust
- Amendments or restatements
- A certification or abstract of trust for banks
- Deeds transferring real property into the trust
- Assignment forms for other assets
Deeds need extra care
A deed transferring property into a trust is recorded with the county, and recorders reject documents for small formatting problems — missing legal descriptions, wrong margins, incorrect certificate wording. Follow the drafting attorney's instructions and the recorder's requirements precisely.
Signing multiple documents at once
Trust packages often include several notarized signatures. Each signature is a separate notarial act and is usually billed separately, so ask for an estimate in advance and allow enough time.
Frequently asked questions
- Do both spouses need to sign?
- For a joint trust, usually yes. The drafting attorney's instructions govern.
- Can trust documents be notarized online?
- Sometimes, but recorders and banks may require paper originals. Confirm before booking.
- Will the notary check that the trust is correct?
- No. Notaries verify identity and complete the certificate; they cannot review or advise on the document.
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Read guideNotarization requirements vary by state and document type. A notary public generally cannot give legal advice, choose a document for you, draft a document unless separately authorized, tell you how to complete a form, or explain the legal effect of signing. If you are unsure whether your document needs notarization or which notarial act is required, ask the agency or person receiving the document, or consult a qualified legal professional.