Who Can Be a Witness During a Notary Act in Pennsylvania?

Who Can Be a Witness During a Notary Act in Pennsylvania?

Not every notarization in Pennsylvania requires a witness — but when one is needed,
choosing the wrong witness can cause delays, rejections, or legal issues.
As a mobile notary serving Pittsburgh and surrounding areas, I help clients understand
who qualifies and who does not.

This guide explains Pennsylvania’s witness rules clearly and simply.

When Is a Witness Required in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania law does not require witnesses for every document.
A witness is only needed when:

• The document itself requires witnesses
• A state law requires witnesses (e.g., Power of Attorney)
• A bank, attorney, title company, or medical provider requests them

If you're unsure, call or text anytime for help preparing your notarization.

Who CAN Be a Witness in Pennsylvania?

A valid witness must be:

• 18 years or older
• Mentally competent
• Not named in the document
• Not benefiting from the document

Good choices include:

• Friends
• Neighbors
• Co-workers
• Facility staff (hospital, nursing home, rehab)
• Anyone not involved in the transaction

If you need a witness, Signings By Marion can assist with arrangements when possible.

Who CANNOT Be a Witness in Pennsylvania?

A witness in Pennsylvania cannot be:

• The notary
• The agent in a Power of Attorney
• The agent’s spouse
• A beneficiary of the document
• Anyone named in the document
• Anyone who stands to gain financially
• A minor
• Anyone unable to physically observe the signing

Example: For a Power of Attorney, the agent’s wife cannot be a witness.

Witness Requirements by Document Type

Here’s a quick overview to help clients avoid mistakes:

Power of Attorney (POA)

• Requires 2 adult disinterested witnesses
• Witnesses cannot be the agent or the agent’s spouse

Wills & Living Wills

• Often require 2 witnesses
• Witnesses should not be heirs or beneficiaries

Real Estate Documents

• Some lender packages require 1–2 witnesses
• Witnesses must be disinterested adults

Medical, School & Travel Forms

• Some require witnesses; others do not
• Requirements vary by institution

If a client is unsure, they should send the document ahead of time so you can verify witness needs.

Why Choosing the Right Witness Matters

Using the wrong witness can lead to:

• Document rejection
• Delayed real estate closings
• Problems with hospitals or attorneys
• Needing to redo the signing
• Legal disputes

Having the correct witnesses present ensures a smooth and successful notarization.

Need Help With Witnesses?

Signings By Marion provides mobile notary services throughout Pittsburgh and surrounding areas.
Same-day, last-minute, and emergency appointments are available.

Final Thoughts

Witness rules exist to protect the signer and the validity of the document.
When in doubt, always choose disinterested adults, and feel free to reach out with questions
before your appointment.