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The Difference Between an Apostille and a Notarization

If you need to authenticate a document for official use, you might wonder:  Do I need a notarization or an apostille? While both serve as forms of validation, they are not the same and serve different legal purposes. What Is a Notarization? A notarization is performed by a commissioned notary public who verifies the identity of the signer and ensures that they are signing willingly. Notarization does not authenticate the content of the document—it only confirms that the signature is legitimate. Commonly notarized documents include affidavits, powers of attorney, real estate transactions, and sworn statements . What Is an Apostille? An apostille is an official certificate issued by the state or federal government that verifies the authenticity of a document for international use . It confirms that the notary or issuing authority is legitimate. Apostilles are required for documents like birth certificates, marriage licenses, academic records, and legal agreements when used...
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Notarization for Redetermination & Recertification: How We Help Keep Your Benefits Flowing

Navigating the world of assistance programs can be challenging, especially when it's time to renew or recertify your benefits. For those on Medicaid, housing assistance, food assistance, or other aid programs, redetermination or recertification can feel overwhelming. These processes, which typically require resubmitting and verifying eligibility documents, are necessary to keep your benefits active—but they often come with strict requirements, including notarized documents.


In this post, we’ll explain what redetermination and recertification are, why notarization is sometimes required, and how our notary services can help you keep things running smoothly.



What is Redetermination or Recertification for Assistance?

When you’re approved for benefits like Medicaid, SNAP, or housing assistance, you aren’t necessarily guaranteed lifelong eligibility. Periodic redetermination (or recertification) processes verify that you continue to meet the program’s criteria. This may involve proving your income, residency, or family circumstances haven’t changed significantly. Typically, the agency administering your benefits will notify you when it’s time to start the recertification process and will outline which documents are required.


Many of these documents—such as affidavits, residency confirmations, and sworn statements—require notarization. Having properly notarized documents can make the difference between a smooth process and one filled with delays or even denial of benefits.


Why You Might Need a Notary for Recertification

Some assistance programs require documents to be signed under oath or verified by a third party, which is where a notary public comes in. A notary ensures that:

  • Your Identity is Verified: The notary checks your ID to confirm you are the person signing the documents.
  • The Process is Secure: A notary's role is to provide a layer of trust, confirming that you’re signing willingly and under the legal guidelines.
  • Your Documents are Legally Valid: Many agencies require notarization to accept certain forms, making the process smoother and more efficient.


How Our Notary Services Simplify the Process

At Shah Notary, we make it easy for clients undergoing redetermination and recertification. Here’s how we help:

  1. Convenient Mobile Notary Services: Can’t make it to an office? No problem! Our mobile notary service comes to you, whether you're at home, in a hospital, or another location. This flexibility ensures that you get the notarization you need without any extra hassle.
  2. Remote Online Notarization (RON): If you prefer to handle things from home, our remote online notarization option allows you to complete the process digitally. All you need is a device with audio-video capability, an internet connection and a valid ID, and you can get your documents notarized from the comfort of your living room. This can be especially helpful for clients with mobility limitations or busy schedules.
  3. Efficient and Professional Service: We understand the urgency and sensitivity of redetermination processes. Our team is here to assist you every step of the way, providing a seamless experience so you can submit your documents on time.


Ready to Keep Your Benefits Active? Let Us Help with Your Notarization Needs

Don’t let paperwork delays put your benefits at risk. At Shah Notary, we’re here to support you with reliable, convenient, and professional notary services, whether you need in-person or online notarization. 


Contact us today at (732) 737-7533 or schedule your notarization appointment and keep your recertification on track. Whether you’re looking for a "mobile notary near me" or "remote online notarization in New Jersey," we’ve got you covered.

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Location: New Jersey, USA

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If you need to authenticate a document for official use, you might wonder:  Do I need a notarization or an apostille? While both serve as forms of validation, they are not the same and serve different legal purposes. What Is a Notarization? A notarization is performed by a commissioned notary public who verifies the identity of the signer and ensures that they are signing willingly. Notarization does not authenticate the content of the document—it only confirms that the signature is legitimate. Commonly notarized documents include affidavits, powers of attorney, real estate transactions, and sworn statements . What Is an Apostille? An apostille is an official certificate issued by the state or federal government that verifies the authenticity of a document for international use . It confirms that the notary or issuing authority is legitimate. Apostilles are required for documents like birth certificates, marriage licenses, academic records, and legal agreements when used...
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