Notarizing the Promissory Note: What Borrowers Should Know in Ontario

When you’re borrowing money whether from a bank, credit union, or even a private lender you may be asked to sign a promissory note. This document is  your written promise to repay the loan under the agreed terms. In Ontario, and across Canada, notarizing this note adds an extra layer of security and credibility for everyone involved.

At Notable Notary, we often see clients who are asked to bring a promissory note for notarization but aren’t quite sure what that means. Let’s break it down in simple terms so you know exactly what to expect.

What Is a Promissory Note?

A promissory note is essentially a loan contract written in plain form. It spells out:

• How much is being borrowed
• The interest rate (if any)
• The repayment schedule (for example, monthly installments or one lump sum)
• What happens if payments aren’t made

Think of it as an IOU but one with legal weight.

Why Does a Promissory Note Need to Be Notarized?

Notarization isn’t always required, but it’s often requested by lenders because it:

• Confirms your identity – A notary verifies you are who you say you are
• Prevents fraud – The notary ensures you are signing willingly and not under pressure
• Adds credibility – A notarized note carries more weight if it’s ever questioned in court
• Protects both sides – Borrower and lender alike have peace of mind knowing the agreement is valid

The Role of the Ontario Notary

When you bring a promissory note to Notable Notary for general notary services or mobile notarization, here’s what happens:

1. Identity Verification – We’ll check your government-issued photo ID.
2. Document Review – We make sure the note is complete (though not for legal accuracy—that’s a lawyer’s role).
3. Witnessing Your Signature – We watch you sign to confirm authenticity.
4. Applying the Notarial Seal – This makes the note official and verifiable.
   

Can This Be Done Remotely?

In Ontario, promissory notes are considered negotiable instruments and under current law, they cannot be notarized or commissioned remotely. That means the signing must be done in person with a notary.

At Notable Notary, we make this simple by offering flexible mobile notary services across Ajax, Pickering, Whitby, Oshawa and other parts of the Durham Region. We’ll come to you, verify your ID, witness the signature, and apply our notarial seal so your promissory note is official and valid.

Why Notarization Matters for Borrowers

A notarized promissory note is like insurance for your loan. It shows you signed it knowingly and willingly, which protects you if disputes arise. For lenders, it’s proof of authenticity. For you, it’s peace of mind that your agreement stands on solid ground.

How Notable Notary Can Help

At Notable Notary, we understand that handling financial documents like promissory notes can feel stressful. That’s why we’ve built our services around convenience, security, and trust.

Whether you’re a borrower, lender, or co-signer, our goal is to make notarization easy, professional, and stress-free.

Ready to Notarize Your Promissory Note?

If you need a quick mobile notary visit in Durham Region, Notable Notary makes the process simple and secure.

📞 Call Us: (289) 312-6678
🌐 Book Online: notablenotary.ca/book-now
📧 Email: info@notablenotary.ca