Find a Notary & Sign Your Trust
Your trust needs to be signed with 2 witnesses and a notary. Here's how to do it right.
Find a Notary Near You
Pro tip: Call ahead to confirm the notary is available and ask about pricing. UPS Store and FedEx Office typically charge $5-15 per notarization. Most banks notarize for free if you have an account.
Step-by-Step Signing Guide
Follow these steps exactly to ensure your trust is legally valid.
1. Print Your Trust
Print the complete trust document. Use standard letter-size paper. Print single-sided for notary convenience.
- Print at least 2 copies — one original, one backup
- Use a stapler or binder clips — do NOT staple signature pages separately
2. Review Before Signing
Read through the entire document. Verify all names, addresses, and dates are correct. Mark any pages that need attention.
- Check that all trustees and beneficiaries are correctly listed
- Verify the trust date matches when you plan to sign
3. Gather Your Witnesses
You need TWO adult witnesses who are NOT named in the trust (not trustees, beneficiaries, or successors).
- Witnesses must be 18+ and of sound mind
- Witnesses should NOT be named anywhere in the trust
- They must watch you sign — they witness YOUR signature
4. Visit the Notary
Bring your printed trust, valid government-issued photo ID, and your two witnesses. The notary will verify your identity and witness all signatures.
- Bring a valid driver's license or passport
- Do NOT sign before arriving — the notary must watch you sign
- Some notaries charge $5-25 per signature — call ahead for pricing
5. Sign the Document
Sign all signature pages in the presence of the notary. Then each witness signs. Then the notary stamps and signs.
- Sign exactly as your name appears in the trust
- Sign with blue ink (makes it easy to distinguish from copies)
- Date all signature lines with the same date
6. Store Securely
Store the original signed trust in a fireproof safe or safe deposit box. Provide copies to all trustees.
- Make certified copies for each trustee
- Consider scanning a digital backup
- Keep the original separate from your firearms
What to Bring Checklist
- Printed trust document (unsigned)
- Valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport)
- Two adult witnesses (NOT named in the trust)
- Blue ink pen
- Payment for notary services ($5-25 typical)
- Your completed Schedule A if listing firearms
Notary requirements may vary by state. This is general guidance, not legal advice. Confirm specific requirements with your notary or a licensed attorney in your state.