There seems to be a lot of confusion surrounding “online notarization,” much of it fuelled by companies that use inaccurate terminology and fail to explain the differences properly.

The first thing to understand is that, in Ontario, it is not legally   permitted to have documents notarized online. Documents can only be commissioned remotely.

So what is the difference?

Notarization vs. Commissioning

Although the terms are often used interchangeably, they are not the same thing.

A commissioner’s role is generally limited to administering oaths, affirmations, and declarations. Many affidavits and statutory declarations fall into this category.

A notary public, on the other hand, has broader powers. Notaries can perform commissioner functions, but they can also certify true copies, witness signatures, and notarize documents intended for governments, banks, lawyers, and foreign authorities. Many official documents require notarization and cannot simply be commissioned.

This distinction matters because many companies advertise “online notarization” when what they are actually offering is remote commissioning. Clients often don’t realize there is a difference until their documents are rejected.

Online Commissioning vs In Person Notarization

At Walk-In Notary, we performed thousands of remote commissions, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic when in-person meetings were difficult or impossible.

After years of experience, we came to an unexpected conclusion: even when remote commissioning is legally available, in-person service is usually better.

Here are some of the reasons.

1. It Often Takes Longer

People assume online service will be faster. In our experience, the opposite is usually true.

Documents need to be emailed back and forth. Identification has to be uploaded and reviewed. Video meetings have to be scheduled. Technical issues arise. Pages are sometimes missing. Signatures are overlooked. Clients may not have access to a printer or scanner.

By contrast, an in-person visit is remarkably simple. You walk in, show your identification, sign your document, and leave. Most visits take only a few minutes.

2. Many Documents Require Notarization, Not Commissioning

One of the biggest problems with online commissioning is that many clients don’t actually need a commission. They need a notarization.

Documents for foreign countries, certified true copies, powers of attorney, travel consent letters, and many other legal documents often require a notary public.

Unfortunately, some clients discover this only after paying for an online service and submitting their documents. They then have to start the process all over again.

3. Problems Are Easier to Catch in Person

When we meet clients face-to-face, we can review documents immediately and identify issues before they become bigger problems.

Pages may be missing. Signatures may be required in multiple places. A document may require a witness, a notary, or additional identification. In some cases, clients have brought the wrong document entirely.

These issues are much easier to resolve when everyone is sitting in the same room.

4. There Are Fewer Technology Headaches

Not everyone is comfortable with video meetings, printers, scanners, PDF software, or uploading documents.

Even for people who are comfortable with technology, internet problems and software glitches can create unnecessary delays.

Paper documents and face-to-face meetings are refreshingly simple.

5. Some Recipients Are Unfamiliar With Remote Commissioning

Although remote commissioning is legally valid in Ontario, not everyone receiving your document is familiar with it.

Banks, employers, foreign authorities, and even some lawyers may have questions about electronically signed or remotely commissioned documents. In some cases, documents are rejected simply because the recipient is unfamiliar with the process.

Traditional ink signatures and seals are universally understood and rarely raise questions.

6. In-Person Service Is Surprisingly Convenient

People often assume that online service is more convenient, but that assumption comes from a time when visiting professional offices involved long waits and appointments.

At Walk-In Notary, no appointment is necessary. Most clients are in and out within minutes.

For many people, driving to one of our offices is actually quicker and easier than coordinating emails, uploading documents, and attending a video call.

The Bottom Line

Remote commissioning served an important purpose during the pandemic, and it remains available in certain situations. However, after handling thousands of these transactions, we have found that in-person service is usually faster, simpler, and less prone to costly mistakes.

Despite what some companies may advertise, there is no such thing as online notarization in Ontario. There is only remote commissioning.

That said, we understand that sometimes clients simply have no other option. You may live in a remote area, have mobility issues, be travelling, or be unable to attend one of our offices.

In those situations, we are still happy to assist. If remote commissioning is your only practical option, please email us at online@walkinnotary.com and we will do our best to help.

Sometimes the old-fashioned way is still the best way.

 

One of the most common questions we get is simple: “How long will I have to wait?”

The short answer is reassuring. Most of the time, there is little to no wait.

At Walk-In Notary, our entire model is built around speed, efficiency, and convenience. We know that our clients are often on tight schedules, so we’ve designed our process to move quickly while still maintaining a high level of care and accuracy.

What You Can Typically Expect

On most days, clients are seen within minutes of arriving. Even during busier periods, wait times are usually short and manageable.

Fridays and peak hours can be a bit busier than usual, but even then, extended waits are not the norm. Our team works continuously to keep things moving and to serve everyone as quickly as possible.

Our Commitment to Your Time

We take your time seriously. If your wait ever exceeds 30 minutes, we offer a discount on your service. It’s a simple way of holding ourselves accountable and showing that we value your experience.

Why We’re Able to Stay Fast

Our notaries are highly experienced and trained to work efficiently without cutting corners. We also operate on a walk-in model, which allows us to serve clients continuously throughout the day without the delays that can come from rigid scheduling systems.

A Shared Standard

Speed is not just a goal for us, it’s part of our identity. Every member of our team understands that providing quick, reliable service is one of the main reasons clients choose Walk-In Notary.

From time to time, there’s some confusion around our pricing, especially when it comes to what we mean by an “additional notarization.” This usually comes up when someone has multiple documents, or when they’ve been in before and are coming back again later.

Our pricing structure

At Walk-In Notary, the first notarization is charged at our standard rate. Any additional notarizations done during the same visit are offered at a reduced rate.

Once you’re already in front of a notary and everything has been reviewed, it’s quicker to complete additional documents in that same sitting.

What “additional” refers to

“Additional notarization” means additional work done during the same visit.

So if you come in with two, three, or more documents at once, the first is at the standard rate, and the rest are at the lower additional rate.

What it doesn’t include

If you come back on a different day, even if it’s for something related or even the same document, it’s treated as a new visit. The standard fee applies again.

Each visit requires us to go through the full process again, including reviewing the document and confirming identity, so it’s not considered a continuation of the previous service.

Why we keep it this way

Over the years, we’ve tried different ways of explaining pricing in more detail, but we’ve found that adding too much information tends to create more confusion rather than less.

Most people just want something simple and predictable, so that’s what we aim for.

A quick example

• One document during a visit: standard fee

• Multiple documents during the same visit: standard fee for the first, reduced fee for the rest

• One document today and another next week: each visit is billed separately at the standard rate

If you’re unsure

If you’re ever not sure how pricing will apply to your situation, feel free to ask when you arrive or call ahead. We’re always happy to walk you through it.

When preparing a will in Ontario, many clients ask about the best way to complete the signing process and the Affidavits of Execution.

In an earlier post on notarizing wills, we explained the different ways a will can be notarized. In this article, we focus on a practical and common question:

Should you sign your will at the notary’s office, or sign it privately first and complete the Affidavit of Execution later?

Each option has advantages and disadvantages.

Option 1: Sign the Will at the Notary’s Office (All Parties Present)

In this scenario, the testator signs the will at our office in front of:

• Two witnesses
• The notary

Everyone is present at the same time and signs in order. The testator signs first, then the witnesses, the witnesses then sign affidavits, and finally the notary commissions those affidavits and stamps the back of the will with an exhibit stamp.

Pros

• The signing is done correctly under supervision
• The risk of technical errors is very low
• There is clear evidence of proper execution
• No follow-up is usually required

For clients who want everything done properly in one visit, this option provides peace of mind.

Cons

• The testator and both witnesses must attend together
• Coordinating schedules can be difficult
• It can be less time-efficient

Option 2: Sign the Will Privately, Complete the Affidavit of Execution Later

In this scenario, the testator signs the will elsewhere in front of two witnesses, without attending our office.

Afterward, one of the witnesses attends our office to swear an Affidavit of Execution.

The Affidavit confirms that the witness saw the testator sign the will.

Importantly, the affidavit does not have to be sworn on the same day the will is signed.

Pros

• The testator does not need to attend our office, but is welcome to do so, especially if they want to ensure they pay for the transaction
• Only one witness usually needs to attend
• Scheduling is easier
• Often more time-efficient

This option works well when it is difficult to coordinate three people at the same time.

Cons

• Delays can occur
• Witnesses may forget to attend
• The affidavit may never be completed if it is postponed too long

While the affidavit can be done later, it is best practice to complete it as soon as reasonably possible.

Common Mistakes When Signing a Will

When wills are signed without professional guidance, errors sometimes occur, such as:

• Witnesses signing in the wrong place
• Missing signatures
• Witnesses not being present at the same time
• A beneficiary acting as a witness
• Pages not being properly initialed

These mistakes can create problems during probate and may require legal advice to resolve.

Which Option Is Right for You?

There is no single “correct” method.

If certainty and simplicity are your priorities, signing at the notary’s office may be best.

If flexibility and convenience are more important, signing privately and completing the affidavit shortly afterward may be preferable.

Our notaries are happy to explain both options so you can choose what works best for your situation.

Important Reminder

We do not provide legal advice about the content or validity of your will.

Our role is limited to witnessing signatures, commissioning affidavits, and certifying copies where appropriate.

If you have questions about how your will should be drafted or executed, you should consult your lawyer.

 

When you need a document notarized, it can be tempting to assume that all notaries offer the same service. In reality, there is an important distinction between lawyer notaries and non-lawyer notaries, and understanding that difference can save time, prevent errors, and provide peace of mind.

In Ontario, not all notaries are lawyers. Some are appointed as notaries public or commissioners of oaths through limited statutory authority, often as part of another profession or role. While they may be legally permitted to notarize certain documents, their scope, training, and ability to assist can be significantly narrower than that of a lawyer notary.

Training and legal background

Lawyer notaries are licensed lawyers who have completed formal legal education, articling, and bar admission, and who remain regulated by the Law Society of Ontario. This means they are trained not only to witness signatures, but also to understand legal documents, statutory requirements, and the broader legal context in which a document is used.

Non-lawyer notaries, by contrast, do not have legal training. Their authority is limited to administering oaths or witnessing signatures, and they are generally not permitted to advise on legal implications or identify potential issues with a document.

Scope of documents

One of the most practical differences shows up when documents are complex, unusual, or intended for use outside Canada. Lawyer notaries are authorized to notarize any type of document and are better equipped to recognize when additional steps, wording, or certifications may be required.

Non-lawyer notaries may be restricted in what they can notarize or may not recognize when a document is incomplete, incorrectly prepared, or unsuitable for its intended purpose. This can lead to documents being rejected later, especially by foreign authorities, courts, or institutions.

Ability to identify problems before they arise

A notary’s role is not to give legal advice during a notarization, but legal understanding still matters. Lawyer notaries are trained to spot inconsistencies, missing elements, or procedural issues that could invalidate a document or cause delays. They can flag concerns early and explain, in general terms, what may need to be addressed before proceeding.

Without that background, a non-lawyer notary may simply witness a signature without realizing there is an underlying issue, leaving the client to discover the problem later when the document is rejected.

Accountability and professional regulation

Lawyer notaries are held to strict professional standards and carry professional liability insurance. They are accountable to a governing body and must adhere to ethical and procedural rules designed to protect the public.

This added layer of oversight provides reassurance, especially when dealing with sensitive, high-stakes, or time-sensitive documents.

Our approach at Walk-In Notary

At Walk-In Notary, all notarizations are performed by licensed lawyers. We do not use paralegals or non-lawyer notaries. This ensures that every client receives service backed by legal training, professional accountability, and broad authority to handle any type of document.

Whether your needs are simple or complex, domestic or international, having a lawyer notary involved helps ensure the process is handled correctly from the start.

When a document matters, who notarizes it matters too.

Why Do I Need to Get This Document Notarized?

This is one of the most common questions we receive at Walk-In Notary. While it might seem like the notary public is the one requiring the notarization, that’s not actually the case.

Notaries do not decide which documents need to be notarized. The requirement usually comes from a third party—such as a government agency, corporation, university, or other institution—that will be receiving your document. So the more accurate question is this: Why does the recipient of my document require it to be notarized?

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer, but most of the reasons fall under a few key categories:

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1. To Confirm the Identity of the Signer and Prevent Fraud

This is the most common reason a document is notarized. The recipient wants to ensure that the person signing the document is in fact who they claim to be. This serves two critical functions:

• It prevents impersonation. A third party cannot easily forge your signature or assume your identity if a notary has verified and witnessed the signing.

• It provides legal assurance. Once notarized, the signer cannot later deny having signed the document, which adds a layer of legal reliability.

This is the core of what notaries do: they witness and confirm signatures—often under oath, depending on the document type.

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2. To Certify a Copy of an Original Document

In many cases, the original document cannot or should not be shared directly. For example, you may be applying to a foreign university or submitting important records to an international agency. Instead of sending originals—which risks loss or damage—a notarized copy assures the recipient that:

• The original exists.

• The copy has not been tampered with.

• The copy is a true and accurate representation of the original.

Notarizing a certified copy allows the recipient to trust the document without needing to see the original in person.

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3. To Begin the Apostille or Authentication Process

When submitting documents for use in another country, you may be told that the document must be “apostilled” or authenticated.

While Canada is not a party to the Hague Apostille Convention, we do have a similar multi-step authentication and legalization process. In this process, notarization is often the first step.

Here’s how it works:

• A notary public first verifies and notarizes the document.

• Then, Global Affairs Canada or the relevant provincial body authenticates the notarization.

• Finally, the embassy or consulate of the receiving country legalizes the document.

This process is essential for many cross-border legal and business transactions.

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4. To Follow Custom, Convention, or Internal Policy

Sometimes, the recipient themselves may not even know why notarization is required. It may simply be an internal policy, a customary practice, or a precautionary measure. For example:

• A landlord might require notarized letters of reference.

• A private school might ask for a notarized parental consent form.

• A business might ask for notarized shareholder declarations.

In these cases, notarization is seen as a safeguard that promotes diligence and accountability.

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5. To Create Independent Proof for Future Use

In some instances, the document does not have a specific recipient at all. Rather, the individual wants to establish proof that the document was signed on a specific date and by a specific person—themselves.

This can be useful for:

• Personal declarations.

• Statements of fact.

• Future legal matters where proof of signature may be required.

A notarized document is far more likely to be accepted as evidence than an unsigned or self-signed document.

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In Conclusion

Notarization provides credibility, authenticity, and legal standing to documents. It assures third parties that a document was properly signed, that it hasn’t been tampered with, and that it can be trusted in a court of law, government office, or international setting.

At Walk-In Notary, we don’t decide whether your document needs notarization. But we do help verify your identity, witness your signature, and prepare your documents properly so they will be accepted wherever you send them.

Have questions about your specific document? Contact us today or simply walk in to any of our locations across Ontario. We’re here to help.

When planning for the future, it’s essential to understand the legal tools available to protect your interests. Two of the most important documents in estate and incapacity planning are the Power of Attorney for Property and the Power of Attorney for Personal Care. While both grant decision-making authority to a trusted individual, they serve very different purposes.

If you’re in Ontario and need a Power of Attorney notarized, Walk-In Notary makes the process quick and easy. Below, we’ll explain the key differences between these two documents and why you might need both.

What Is a Power of Attorney for Property?

A Power of Attorney for Property (also called a POA for Property) allows you to appoint someone to manage your financial and legal affairs if you become incapacitated or unable to handle them yourself. This document can take effect immediately or only if you become mentally incapable, depending on how it is drafted.

What Can an Attorney for Property Do?

The person you appoint—known as your “attorney”—can make financial decisions on your behalf, such as:

• Paying your bills and managing your bank accounts
• Filing taxes and handling government benefits
• Buying or selling property
• Managing investments and other assets

What They Cannot Do:

• Make or change your will
• Make medical or personal care decisions (these fall under a different POA)

A Power of Attorney for Property is a crucial document for ensuring your finances are taken care of if you are unable to manage them yourself due to illness, injury, or absence.

What Is a Power of Attorney for Personal Care?

A Power of Attorney for Personal Care (POA for Personal Care) allows you to appoint someone to make healthcare and personal care decisions if you become unable to do so. This document is sometimes called a Medical Power of Attorney or Health Care Proxy in other jurisdictions.

What Can an Attorney for Personal Care Do?

Your appointed attorney can make decisions about:

• Medical treatment and procedures
• Long-term care and living arrangements
• Nutrition, hygiene, and personal safety

What They Cannot Do:

• Handle your financial affairs (this requires a separate Power of Attorney for Property)
• Make decisions while you are still capable of making them yourself

A Power of Attorney for Personal Care is essential if you want someone you trust to make medical decisions for you in case of serious illness or incapacity. Without this document, your loved ones may have to apply to the courts to gain decision-making authority.

Key Differences Between the Two POAs

Feature	Power of Attorney for Property	Power of Attorney for Personal Care
Purpose	Manages finances and legal matters	Makes healthcare and personal care decisions
Takes Effect	Can be immediate or upon incapacity	Only takes effect upon incapacity
Who Can Act?	A trusted individual, lawyer, or financial institution	A trusted individual (not a lawyer or financial institution)
Common Uses	Paying bills, managing investments, selling property	Approving medical treatments, choosing care facilities

Do You Need Both?

Yes, in most cases, it’s wise to have both a Power of Attorney for Property and a Power of Attorney for Personal Care. This ensures that both your financial and medical needs are managed by someone you trust if you become incapacitated.

Without these documents, your loved ones may face delays, legal hurdles, and additional expenses when trying to act on your behalf.

How to Get a Power of Attorney Notarized in Ontario

At Walk-In Notary, we make notarizing a Power of Attorney quick and hassle-free. Simply visit one of our locations, and our experienced notaries will review your document, confirm your identity, and witness your signature.

Why Choose Walk-In Notary?

✅ No appointment needed – Just walk in!
✅ Fast and affordable service
✅ Multiple locations for your convenience
✅ Experienced notaries who understand Ontario law

Visit Us Today!

Need your Power of Attorney notarized? Stop by Walk-In Notary for fast, professional service. Have questions? Contact us today or visit our website for more details.

Finding time to get documents notarized can feel like a hassle. Whether you’re handling personal paperwork, business forms, or travel documents, waiting for an appointment or visiting a notary with limited hours isn’t always convenient. That’s where walk-in notary services come in handy! Here are five key reasons to choose a walk-in notary service for your next notarization:

1. All Our Notaries Are Lawyers

When you choose a walk-in notary service with us, you’re working with qualified lawyers—not paralegals. This distinction matters because, unlike paralegals, lawyers have extensive legal training and experience across a wide range of document types and legal situations. Our notaries have the authority and expertise to notarize any kind of document, from routine affidavits and consent forms to complex legal agreements and international documents.

Lawyers bring a deep understanding of legal processes and requirements, ensuring every document is notarized with accuracy and adherence to all necessary protocols. This added layer of expertise is invaluable for clients who may need guidance on specific requirements or complex notarization needs. So, whether you need a simple signature witnessed or are handling sensitive legal paperwork, our lawyer-notaries are here to help.

2. Convenience and Flexibility

With a walk-in notary service, there’s no need to book an appointment in advance. This can be particularly helpful for those with busy schedules or last-minute needs. Simply visit during business hours, and our team will be ready to assist. Walk-in notaries are there to make your life easier—just drop by when it works for you.

3. Fast and Efficient Service

Walk-in notary services are designed to prioritize speed and efficiency, allowing clients to get in and out quickly. Our experienced notaries handle a wide range of documents and are prepared to notarize them accurately and promptly. We understand that your time is valuable, so we strive to make the notarization process as swift and seamless as possible.

4. Knowledgeable and Experienced Notaries

At our walk-in notary locations, you’ll find trained professionals who can answer your questions and ensure that your documents are notarized correctly. Not every notarial situation is the same—some documents require specific witnessing procedures or extra steps to be legally valid. Our team has the experience to guide you through any unique requirements, ensuring everything is done right the first time.

5. Affordable and Transparent Pricing

Walk-in notary services often offer straightforward, competitive pricing. Without the added administrative fees that come with scheduled appointments, walk-in options can be more affordable. Our pricing is transparent, so you’ll know exactly what to expect before the notary stamp hits the page—no hidden fees or surprises.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a walk-in notary service is about making notarization convenient, efficient, and hassle-free. With flexible hours, skilled professionals, and the assurance of working with experienced lawyers, walk-in notary locations are well-suited to meet your needs without interrupting your day. Next time you need a document notarized, consider stopping by our office to see just how easy it can be!