Notarization is the process of authenticating a document to verify that it is valid and legally binding. To become notarized, a document must first be signed by all parties involved and witnessed by a certified notary public. The notary must also affix their official seal to certify the signatures. Documents commonly needing notarization include affidavits, contracts, wills, real estate deeds, settlement agreements, grant deeds, and other legal documents. In order for a document to be notarized, certain documents are typically required depending on the type of document and the jurisdiction in which it will be filed. The key documents needed for notarization include: an identification document validating the signatories, the document needing notarization including any related paperwork, valid form of payment (if applicable), and the sworn oath or affidavit of truth from the signatory.