The goal of a signature
A signature is a person's deliberate way of showing agreement. It does not have to be a perfect cursive name. A shaky signature, a printed name or an X can count if the signer intended it as their signature, and the notary sees it done.
The notary's job is to observe and record, not to judge how neat the mark is.
If the signer's usual signature has changed because of illness, an ID may show an older signature. A difference is not a reason to refuse, because the notary is verifying the person, not grading handwriting.
Signing with a mark
A signer may make a mark, such as an X, in the signature spot. Many notaries then print the signer's name beside the mark and may have a witness sign. Requirements for witnesses and for describing the mark depend on state rules.
Record the use of a mark in the journal and, where required, in the certificate.
A signer who can make only a tiny mark is still a signer. Respect their effort, and give them time. Hurrying or pushing the pen tells the record that the mark may not have been voluntary.
Signing by another person at the signer's direction
Some states allow another adult to sign the signer's name at the signer's direction and in the signer's presence. The notary witnesses it, and typically that person's name and role are recorded. The helper should not be someone who benefits from the document.
Check the state rule before agreeing to do this, since the details and who may sign differ.
Practical aids
A signature stamp, a guided hand, a pen grip or a clipboard that stabilizes the page may help. If the signer chooses an aid, the notary should see that it is the signer's own decision. Never guide the pen in a way that makes it unclear who is signing.
For someone lying in bed, a firm board under the paper makes a large difference.
Keep extra pens on hand, including thick-barreled ones that are easier to grip. Small comforts can turn an impossible signing into an easy one.
Powers of attorney are a different path
A signer who has a valid power of attorney may be able to have an agent sign on their behalf. That is a legal arrangement, and the agent signs in an agent capacity. It is separate from helping a signer who is present and willing.
Questions about which route is proper belong with an attorney, not the notary.
What to write down
Record the method used, the name of anyone who helped, the time and place, and the names of any witnesses. Also note that the signer confirmed the signature was their own act. This is the kind of detail that is hard to remember months later.
If your state has a specific certificate wording for a signature by mark or by another person, use that wording rather than improvising.
Common questions
Is an X a valid signature?
A mark made with intent to sign can be valid. The notary follows state rules about witnesses and records.
Can a notary sign for the signer?
Generally no. A notary should not be the person who signs for the signer, and state law may limit who can.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Fees and procedures change; check with the office involved or an attorney for your situation.