The certifying professional must write several key notes when certifying a document. This page explains how to certify a document as a true copy of the original.
CERTIFYING DOCUMENTS: You must get it signed and get it dated by a professional person. The signer must be 'well-respected'.
There are several reasons why you might need to get a certified copy of a document. Common reasons include applying for a bank account or a home mortgage.
In these cases, the institution may ask you to provide documents certified as true copies of the original.
Note: Different rules apply for countersigning passport applications, for passport photos, and for a lasting power of attorney.
Copies of documents that you may need to get certified by a professional include:
The person certifying documents must be 'of good standing'. They should also be well-respected in the local community. Thus, you should ask a professional person such as:
Note: The person who certifies the document should not be:
Always check what the organisation requires from a certified copy. In some cases, they could have special rules on who can certify a document for them.
You will need to have the original document and at least one photocopy. Take them both when you ask a person to certify the copy. Make sure they add these important notes:
Note: It is not uncommon for the person who certifies a document to charge a fee for doing so.
What if you need a certified translation of a document or a deed? Sometimes they are not written in English (or Welsh). In this case you should ask a professional translation company to confirm in writing on the document:
Certifying Documents: How to Certify a Document in the United Kingdom