Do You Need a Notary for a Power of Attorney in PA? Here's the Truth

In most cases, yes, and Pennsylvania generally requires two witnesses as well. If you’re preparing a power of attorney (POA) for yourself or a family member, knowing what’s needed before signing can help prevent delays and avoid questions when the document is presented to a bank, title company, hospital, or government agency.

At Aaron B. Kromer Notary Services LLC, we help Lehigh Valley residents complete important notarizations with care and clear explanations. Here’s a practical overview of what to expect. Because every document and situation can be different, this is general information, not legal advice.

Does a Pennsylvania power of attorney need notarization?

For a Pennsylvania POA, the principal, the person granting authority, generally must sign the document, and the signature must be acknowledged before a notary public or another person authorized to take acknowledgments. The POA also generally needs two witnesses who are at least 18 years old.

The witnesses and notary serve different purposes. A notary checks the signer’s identity and completes the notarial act. Witnesses observe the signing and attest to it. A notary does not replace the two witnesses.

Pennsylvania’s requirements are described in 20 Pa.C.S. § 5601. In general, the witnesses cannot be the named agent, the notary, or a person signing on the principal’s behalf. The document may also include an acknowledgment for the agent to complete before acting under the POA.

Why does notarization matter?

A POA can give another person authority to act on your behalf. Since the document may be used for important financial, health-related, or property matters, organizations often need to see that it was signed properly.

The notary’s role includes confirming the signer’s identity and completing the required notarial certificate. The notary also takes steps to confirm the signer is appearing and acknowledging the signature. This helps create a clear record of the signing and may help the document meet an organization’s execution requirements.

That said, notarization doesn’t guarantee that every bank, title company, hospital, or agency will accept a POA. An organization may have its own forms, review process, or additional requirements. If you’re preparing the document for a specific transaction, check with that organization or speak with an attorney before signing.

What can happen if a POA isn’t signed correctly?

A missing acknowledgment, incomplete notary certificate, or absent witness signature can lead to follow-up questions. The organization reviewing the POA may ask for corrections or a new signing before it will rely on the document. That can create extra appointments and delays when you or your family may already be dealing with a time-sensitive matter.

Taking time to confirm the signing requirements ahead of your appointment can help prevent avoidable problems. We’ll explain each step and check the notarial details carefully. We can’t advise you on the legal wording or guarantee acceptance by a third party, but we can help you complete the notarial portion accurately.

What should you bring to a POA notarization?

Before you come in, or arrange a mobile visit, confirm that you have:

• The complete document, unsigned. Bring every page, including any instructions, signature pages, and notarial certificates. Unless the document’s instructions say otherwise, wait to sign until you’re with the notary.
• Valid photo identification. The person signing should bring current ID so the notary can verify identity.
• The principal and any other required signers. Anyone whose signature needs notarization must be present for their notarial act.
• Two eligible adult witnesses. Pennsylvania generally requires two witnesses, age 18 or older, who meet the eligibility rules. Arrange for them to attend the signing.
• Any organization-specific instructions. If a bank, title company, or agency provided a checklist or preferred form, bring it along.

If you’re unsure who needs to attend or whether a document is complete, call us before your appointment. We’ll help clarify the practical steps and let you know what to prepare.

Other documents we regularly notarize

A power of attorney may be part of a larger set of paperwork. We also provide notary services for documents such as:

• Real estate documents: Some property transactions require notarized signatures. If you need real estate notary services in the Lehigh Valley, check with your title company, lender, or attorney about the exact documents and signing instructions.
• Affidavits: We provide affidavit notary services for people who need to sign a statement under oath or affirmation. Bring the complete affidavit and wait to sign until the notary directs you.
• Wills and related documents: Requirements depend on the document and its purpose. For example, a notarial act may be requested for a related affidavit. Ask your attorney which pages need notarization and which witnesses are required.
• Employment forms and verifications: Some work-related documents require a notarized signature or identity verification. Bring any instructions from your employer or the requesting organization.

Notarization confirms a signing or oath according to the notary’s authority; it does not confirm that a document is legally correct or provide legal advice. If you need help choosing or changing legal wording, consult an attorney.

Local notary service, with options that fit your day

We’re a local, family-owned business serving residents throughout the Lehigh Valley, including Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, Slatington, Walnutport, Palmerton, Lehighton, and Northampton. If you’re looking for a notary public in Allentown, PA, or a nearby community, contact us to discuss your document and scheduling needs.

You can visit our office or ask about a mobile notary appointment for documents that qualify. Mobile availability depends on the document and appointment details, so contact us before making plans. We’ll explain what to bring and what to expect, so you can prepare without guessing.

What you can expect when you work with us

• Clear steps: We’ll explain the notarial process in plain language so you know what happens next.
• Careful attention: We’ll check identification and complete the notarial certificate with care.
• Respect for your time: We’ll help you understand what to bring before the appointment.
• Flexible scheduling: Ask about office appointments or mobile service for eligible documents.
• Personal local service: You’ll be treated with respect and individual attention, not like another number.

Our goal is to help you complete the notarization correctly the first time and avoid preventable paperwork issues. We’ll be honest about what we can handle and direct legal questions to an attorney.

General information, not legal advice

This article is for general information only. It is not legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws and document requirements can vary based on the facts, the document, and the organization receiving it. Please consult a Pennsylvania attorney about your specific situation, the wording of your POA, or whether a particular institution will accept it.

Schedule a notary appointment

If you have a POA or another document that needs notarization, call (484) 231-2345 to discuss the next steps and available scheduling options. You can also reach us through our contact page. We’ll answer your questions, explain what to bring, and help you plan for a careful, accurate signing.