How to Notarize an Authorization Letter Online in 2026

An authorization letter gives another person permission to complete a specific task on your behalf. It may allow someone to collect a document, handle a business matter, communicate with an organization, or complete a limited transaction for you. When the receiving organization needs additional proof that the letter is genuine, it may ask for the signature to be notarized.

The good news is that many authorization letters can be notarized remotely. If your document is eligible and the recipient accepts online notarization, you can meet with a notary through a live video session and receive the completed document electronically.

What Is an Authorization Letter?

An authorization letter is a written document that permits another person to act for you in a defined situation. The person granting permission may be called the authorizer or principal. The person receiving permission may be called the authorized representative or agent.

Authorization letters are commonly used to:

• Collect documents, certificates, records, or packages
• Submit paperwork to a school, business, or government office
• Handle a limited banking or financial matter
• Manage a specific business transaction
• Communicate with an insurance company or service provider
• Complete a vehicle-related task
• Authorize temporary care or travel arrangements for a child
• Represent someone during a clearly defined transaction

An authorization letter is generally narrower than a power of attorney. It should explain exactly what the representative is allowed to do, when the authority begins, and when it ends.

Does an Authorization Letter Need to Be Notarized?

Not every authorization letter requires notarization. The requirement depends on the receiving organization, the purpose of the letter, and any applicable legal or administrative rules.

Notarization may be requested when:

• The transaction involves money or valuable property
• The representative will collect an official record or certificate
• A government agency requires identity verification
• The recipient wants additional protection against fraud
• The letter will be presented in another state or country
• The authorization concerns sensitive personal or business information

Before scheduling a session, contact the organization receiving the letter. Ask whether notarization is required, whether remote online notarization is accepted, and whether the organization provides its own form.

Can You Notarize an Authorization Letter Online?

In many cases, yes. Remote online notarization allows the signer to appear before an authorized online notary using live audio-video communication. The notary verifies the signer's identity, confirms the required notarial act, and completes an electronic notarial certificate.

Acceptance rules can vary by document, recipient, and jurisdiction. Some organizations may require an original paper document, wet-ink signatures, witnesses, or in-person notarization. Always confirm the recipient's requirements before ordering the service.

What Information Should the Letter Include?

A clear authorization letter usually includes:

• The full legal name and contact information of the person granting authority
• The full legal name of the authorized representative
• A precise description of the action the representative may perform
• The name of the organization receiving the letter
• Relevant account, document, vehicle, or reference information
• The date the authorization becomes effective
• An expiration date or a statement explaining when the authority ends
• The signer's signature and date
• The appropriate notarial certificate

Avoid vague language when the authority should be limited. For example, "collect my birth certificate from the county records office" is clearer than "handle my documents."

What You Need for Online Notarization

Prepare the following before your session:

• A complete authorization letter in PDF format
• A valid government-issued photo ID
• A phone, tablet, or computer with a camera and microphone
• A stable internet connection
• Access to your email account
• A quiet and well-lit place for the video session
• Any additional forms or instructions provided by the recipient

Do not leave important sections blank. Unless the notary or recipient tells you otherwise, it is usually best to wait and sign during the live session.

How to Notarize an Authorization Letter Online

Step 1: Complete the Authorization Letter

Enter the names of both parties and clearly describe the permission being granted. Check all dates, reference numbers, and contact details before submitting the document.

Step 2: Confirm the Recipient's Requirements

Ask whether the recipient accepts an electronically signed and remotely notarized document. Also confirm whether it requires an acknowledgment, a jurat, witnesses, or a specific authorization form.

Step 3: Submit the Document and ID

Send a clear PDF copy of the letter together with the requested identification. The name on the letter should match the name shown on your ID.

Step 4: Join the Live Video Session

Meet the notary online at the arranged time. The notary must be able to see and hear you clearly and may ask you to show your identification, confirm that you understand the document, and state that you are signing voluntarily.

Step 5: Sign When Instructed

Follow the notary's instructions and sign during the session when required. If the notarial act includes an oath or affirmation, answer the notary's questions truthfully and clearly.

Step 6: Receive the Notarized PDF

After the notary completes the certificate and applies the electronic signature and seal, you will receive the notarized document electronically. Review the file before sending it to the recipient.

Acknowledgment vs Jurat

The receiving organization or document preparer should tell you which notarial act is required. A notary generally cannot choose the certificate for you when doing so would amount to legal advice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Signing Before the Session

Some notarial acts require you to sign while appearing before the notary. Wait for instructions unless you have confirmed that a previously signed document is acceptable.

Using an Incomplete Letter

Missing names, dates, authorization details, or pages can delay the process. Complete the document and review it carefully before the appointment.

Granting Unclear Authority

Describe the representative's authority precisely. Add limits, relevant reference numbers, and an expiration date when appropriate.

Using an Expired or Unclear ID

Prepare valid identification and make sure the image and information are clear enough to review.

Failing to Confirm Acceptance

A correctly notarized document may still be rejected if the recipient requires a different form, wet-ink signatures, witnesses, or in-person notarization.

Editing the Document After Notarization

Do not change the document after the notary completes it. Later modifications may make the electronic certificate invalid or cause the recipient to reject the file.

Online vs In-Person Notarization

Can the Letter Be Used in Another Country?

Possibly, but international document requirements vary. The foreign recipient may require an original paper document, an apostille, authentication, a certified translation, embassy legalization, or additional witnesses.

An apostille is separate from notarization and is not automatically included. Ask the foreign recipient or the appropriate authority what it requires before completing the notarization.

Start Your Online Notarization

If your authorization letter is complete and the recipient accepts remote notarization, you can use our online notary service to submit your document and begin the process. Notary20 offers a simple flat price of $20 per document.

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