Adam Sedia 
Customers frequently request a “notarized translation” when they really mean a “certified translation” and vice versa. What is the difference and why does it matter?
“Notarized” simply means that a notary licensed by the state attests that the signature on the document is authentic – that it is actually the signature of the person purporting to sign the document. A notary checks the signer’s ID, then signs and stamps the document verifying the signature, which is then presumed authentic unless proven otherwise (meaning that the notary committed fraud). Notarization is not an exacting process; most banks provide notary services for free to anyone who has an account with it.
Importantly, notarization makes no statement about the accuracy of the translation or the identity of the translator. For that, a translation must be certified.
A certified translation includes a statement from the translator providing (1) the translator’s name, (2) the origin and target languages, and (3) a declaration that the translation is accurate. Whereas notarization simply requires signature in front of a notary, certification requires a separate document for the translator to sign attesting to the translation’s accuracy and in effect assuming responsibility for it.
Unida’s pricing has separate rates for notarized and certified translations. The additional steps and responsibilities required by a certified translation justify the different rate. Customers wondering whether they need a certified or simply a notarized translation can now understand what each service provides and which service best meets their needs.
Unida Translation is a leader in the translation industry. We help all businesses open up the avenues of communication by ensuring that your organization’s messages are understood in the exact same manner no matter who the audience is. Our company provides outstanding translation services that cover over 125 languages for documents, remotely and in person. What makes Unida Translation different and the best choice for all of your translator-related needs is that our translators and interpreters are certified by a recognized translator and interpreter association. Our organization is also licensed, insured and the only translation company truly located in Northwest Indiana.
