Can a Notary Public Help Me with Power of Attorney Documents?

 If you’re helping a loved one manage their affairs—or planning ahead for yourself—you may wonder: “I need to sign a Power of Attorney. Do I need a notary? Can they come to me?”

This article walks you through the basics of Power of Attorney (POA) documents in California, when notarization is required, and how a mobile notary can help, especially if you or your loved one can’t travel.

What Is a Power of Attorney?

A Power of Attorney (POA) is a legal document that allows you (the “principal”) to give someone you trust (the “agent” or “attorney-in-fact”) the authority to act on your behalf.

There are different types of POA for different needs:

  • ✅ Financial POA: Manage your money, property, and legal matters

  • ✅ Medical POA: Make health care decisions if you become unable

  • ✅ Limited POA: For short-term or specific matters like travel, business, etc.

Why Do I Need a Notary?

While some POA forms may not legally require notarization, many institutions like banks, hospitals, and real estate offices will only accept notarized copies.

Notarization:

  • Confirms your identity

  • Verifies that you are signing willingly and with full understanding

  • Helps prevent fraud and future disputes

  • Makes the document more likely to be accepted without delays

🛑 Important: California does NOT allow Remote Online Notarization (RON). Your document must be signed in person, with the notary physically present.

What Are California’s Signing Rules for POA?

Under California law:

  1. The signer must appear in person before the notary

  2. The signer must understand what they are signing

  3. If they cannot write, they may use a Signature by Mark (with proper procedures)

  4. Real estate–related POA documents require a thumbprint in the notary’s journal

Common Questions from Families and Caregivers

Q: My loved one can’t speak but can nod. Can they sign a POA?
✅ Yes, as long as they understand and can clearly communicate consent (e.g., nodding or using gestures).

Q: Can I be the witness if I’m also the agent or beneficiary?
❌ No. Anyone with a financial interest in the POA should not act as a witness.

Q: Can a nurse or caregiver act as a witness?
❌ Usually not. They may have a conflict of interest or may be prohibited by facility policy.

Q: Can we do the notarization over Zoom or video?
❌ No. California does not permit video notarization. You need an in-person notary.

Step-by-Step: How to Get a POA Notarized

📌 Step 1: Prepare the POA Document
Use a template from a trusted source or consult a lawyer. Hospitals and elder law offices may also provide forms.

📌 Step 2: Choose an Experienced Mobile Notary
At Lin Mobile Notary, I specialize in helping seniors and families handle sensitive documents with care and clarity. I proudly serve:

  • 🏠 Homes

  • 🏥 Hospitals

  • 🧓 Assisted living and memory care facilities

  • ❤️ Nursing homes and hospice care settings

I have experience with:

  • Advance Health Care Directives

  • Powers of Attorney

  • Real estate and trust documents

  • Signature-by-mark procedures

Final Thoughts: A Small Step That Brings Big Peace of Mind

A Power of Attorney gives someone you trust the legal power to help you when you need it most. Getting the document properly notarized ensures it will stand up when it matters.

If you or a loved one needs help notarizing a POA—especially in a home, hospital, or care setting—I’m here to help.

📞 Contact Lin – Your Trusted Mobile Notary in Roseville & Rocklin

I provide mobile, by-appointment notary services throughout Roseville, Rocklin, Granite Bay, Whitney, Penryn, Loomis, Antelope,  North Highlands, Citrus Heights, Orangevale, Carmichael, Fair Oaks, Folsom, and surrounding areas.

📱 Call or Text: (279)243-8631 

🌐 Book an Appointment Online with Lin Mobile Notary.