What Is a Promissory Note and How Does It Work?
Promissory Note Notarization in Florida: What You Need to Know
If you are lending or borrowing money in Florida, a promissory note is one of the most important documents you can have. It is more than a handshake agreement. It is a legally binding promise that outlines exactly how and when the money will be repaid.
At Notary SWFL, we help Florida residents notarize promissory notes to give them an extra layer of authenticity and protection.
What Is a Promissory Note?
A promissory note is a written agreement where one party (the borrower) promises to pay a certain amount of money to another party (the lender) under specific terms. It is common in:
Loans between family members or friends
Business financing agreements
Real estate transactions such as owner financing
Settlement payments or structured payouts
While it can be legally valid without a notary in some cases, notarizing a promissory note ensures both parties’ identities are verified and the agreement is more difficult to dispute.
Why You Should Notarize Your Promissory Note
Notarizing your promissory note:
Verifies the identities of the borrower and lender
Prevents disputes over whether the document was signed willingly
Adds credibility in legal proceedings
Provides peace of mind for both parties
In short, notarization turns your agreement into a rock solid, verifiable record.
What to Include in a Promissory Note
For a promissory note to hold up in Florida, it should clearly state:
The date of the agreement
Names and addresses of borrower and lender
Principal loan amount
Interest rate if applicable
Repayment schedule such as monthly, quarterly, or lump sum
Late fees or penalties
Default terms that explain what happens if payments are missed
Governing law, typically Florida law
Signatures of both borrower and lender
Example of a Simple Promissory Note
Date: February 1, 2025
Principal Amount: $5,000.00
Borrower: Jane Doe, 123 Main Street, Fort Myers, FL
Lender: John Smith, 456 Oak Avenue, Fort Myers, FL
For value received, I, Jane Doe, promise to pay John Smith the sum of $5,000.00 with interest at 5 percent per year, payable in monthly installments of $215.00 starting March 1, 2025. Payments will be due on the first of each month until February 1, 2027. Late payments over 10 days will incur a $25.00 fee.
Signed:
Borrower: _____________________ Jane Doe
Lender: _______________________ John Smith
Get Your Promissory Note Notarized in Florida, Fast and Easy
At Notary SWFL, we make notarizing your promissory note simple. Through Remote Online Notarization (RON), we can verify your signatures quickly and securely anywhere in the world.
📅 Book your notarization now to protect your agreement and give both sides peace of mind.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a licensed attorney for legal guidance on creating and enforcing a promissory note.
