What must a Notary do before notarizing a document?

A notary's primary responsibility before notarizing a document is to confirm the signer's identity and willingness to sign. This step is crucial for ensuring the integrity and authenticity of the notarization process. By verifying the individual's identity, the notary protects against fraud and ensures that the document will be legally binding. This can involve checking official identification or utilizing other methods of identity verification stipulated by applicable laws.

The requirement to confirm the signer’s willingness also safeguards that the individual is entering into the agreement knowingly and voluntarily. This ensures that there is no coercion or undue pressure involved in the signing process, which is a fundamental principle of notarization.

The other options do not accurately reflect the essential duties of a notary. Notaries are not responsible for preparing documents themselves, and they do not need to witness other people signing documents unless it pertains to the notarization of the document in question. Additionally, while notaries can charge fees for their services, this is not a prerequisite for notarizing a document.