Before I can notarize anything, I have to verify who you are. Wisconsin law requires it, and it's the main thing that makes a notarization mean something.

So before we meet, make sure you have a valid, government-issued photo ID. Here's what works:

• Wisconsin driver's license or state ID

• U.S. passport or passport card

• Military ID

• Tribal ID

• Any other federal, state, or tribal photo ID with your signature on it

The ID needs three things: your photo, your signature, and it can't be expired. That last one trips people up more than you'd think. Check the date before I show up.

No ID? Here's what you can do.

Wisconsin allows a credible witness to vouch for your identity if you don't have acceptable ID. The witness must know you personally, be willing to take an oath confirming your identity, and ideally be known to me as well. This works in certain situations, but it's not a workaround I'd lean on for anything high-stakes. If your ID has expired or is unavailable, please get a current one first. It'll save everyone the headache.

What doesn't work:

Photocopies of an ID aren’t acceptable. Neither will a screenshot of your license on your phone. I need the original document in hand.

A note on names

The name on your ID should match the name on the document you're signing. If there's a discrepancy, like a missing maiden or middle name, mention it ahead of time. We can usually work through it, but surprises at the table slow things down.

Questions before we schedule? Reach out. I'd rather answer them now than have you scrambling when I'm already on my way.