Notarizing for Blind or Low Vision Signers

Start by asking what helps

Ask the signer how they prefer to work. Some want the document read aloud, some have a magnifier, a phone reader or a trusted person who reads along. Do not assume. A quick question at the start is respectful and efficient.

Speak directly to the signer, not to the companion.

Describe the setup too. Tell the signer where the journal, the pen and the pages are, and say when you are handing something over. Small spoken cues remove guesswork.

Reading the document

For awareness, the signer should get the document's content in a way they can access. If the signer asks, the notary may read the title and key parts aloud, but should avoid explaining what it means legally. Reading is not the same as advising.

If the document is long, the signer may bring someone they trust to read it. A reader who also benefits from the document is not ideal.

Finding the signature line

Guide by words, not by touch, unless the signer asks. For example, the signature line is about two inches from the bottom, left of the date. A signing guide, which is a plastic frame with a window, can be placed on the page to mark the space.

Let the signer decide how to sign. The notary should not move the signer's hand.

If the signer wants a sighted helper to confirm the line is correct, that is fine, provided the helper is neutral and does not direct the signer's choices.

Recording the act

Make a journal note that the signer has vision loss and how the document was made accessible. This protects both parties if someone later questions the signing. Where your state requires or allows a particular note in the certificate, follow it.

Be consistent. A brief standard note works for most cases.

If the signer asks for a copy of what was done, describe in plain words what you recorded, so there are no surprises later.

Electronic and remote options

For remote online sessions, check that the platform works with the signer's screen reader or magnifier. Not all do. If it does not, a traditional in-person notarization may be easier, with the signer receiving the document in large print or Braille ahead of time if they have asked for it.

Mistakes to avoid

Do not raise your voice, talk about the signer in the third person, or take the pen and paper without asking. Do not summarize the document in your own words, since a summary could be taken as advice or could leave out an important term.

Also avoid treating a companion as the decision maker. The signer is the one who must confirm their wishes, in their own voice.

Common questions

More notary guides

• Remote Notarization ID Rejected: Troubleshooting Steps
• Notarizing for Deaf or Hard of Hearing Signers
• Notarizing for Signers Who Cannot Read English or Cannot Read

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Fees and procedures change; check with the office involved or an attorney for your situation.