Notary Public

What Is a Notary Public?

A Notary Public is a person authorized to witness signatures, certify documents, and administer oaths.

Commonly Notarized documents include:

• Transcripts and diplomas
• Power of attorney
• Consent forms
• Passport copies (for identification verification)
• Immigration documents
• Rental agreements

Notary Services Near Campus

• Student Legal Services
  • Offers notary services for U-M students.
  • Student Legal Services page
• U-M Credit Union (UMCU) Branches
  • Convenient locations throughout Ann Arbor and neighboring areas
  • Notarization is available at all UMCU branches
  • Free for Members; Non-account holders are charged $10
  • UMCU Branch Locations page
• Banks and Credit Unions
  • Most banks (such as Chase, Bank of America, Fifth Third, Huntington National Bank etc.) offer notary services to account holders
  • Call your branch for specific details and availability
• Ann Arbor District Library – Notary Services
  • Available at select library branches
  • Visit the AADL Notary Services page for details
• UPS Stores
  • Notary services available at participating locations
  • UPS Store location page

Apostille

An Apostille is a certification that verifies the authenticity of a document, particularly for use in countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention.

Documents Commonly Apostilled:

• Birth, marriage, and death certificates
• Academic transcripts and diplomas (notarized copies)
• Power of attorney

Step-by-Step Guide: Obtaining an Apostille in Michigan

1. Get your document notarized

Use one of the notary services listed above to notarize your document.

2. Apply for an Apostille from the Michigan Secretary of State

Michigan Apostille Service Information: Visit the Michigan Apostille Service webpage for official instructions and forms.

How to Submit Your Documents:

• By Mail or In Person:
  • Mail or deliver to:
    Michigan Department of State
    Office of the Great Seal
    7064 Crowner Drive
    Lansing, MI 48918
• In-person by appointment only:
  • Mondays and Wednesday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Make appointments online.
  • If you cannot use the online system, call 888-767-6424 for assistance.

Tips:

• Use a trackable mailing service and include a self-addressed, stamped envelope for return documents.
• Processing time is usually 3–10 business days.

3. Additional Information & Support

For questions, visit Michigan Apostille Service Webpage, or call the Office of the Great Seal at (888) 767-6424. 

More details are available at the Michigan Secretary of State's website.

Disclaimer: This document/resource is intended for informational purposes only.