The Post Office offers a straightforward service that's super helpful when it comes to authenticating the accuracy of important documents, whether for job applications, legal forms, or academic records.
In this article, we'll guide you through how to get your documents certified at your local Post Office. We'll cover what types of documents you can certify, the steps involved in the certification process, and why it's important for various legal, professional, and personal reasons.
Plus, we’ll provide some handy tips on preparing for your visit to make the process as smooth as possible.
What is Document Certification?
Document certification is a way of proving that a document is authentic. This is done by having an authorised person, like a Post Office official, verify that the copy is true to its original, and that your copies are genuine and trustworthy.
But what types of documents need certifying? Commonly, these can include:
- ID Documents: Passports, driving licences, and birth certificates are often certified to prove your identity.
- Academic Certificates: Diplomas, degrees, and transcripts may need certification when you're applying for a job or further education.
- Legal Paperwork: Documents like powers of attorney, contracts, and wills might also require certification, especially when they’re going to be used in official capacities.
Read more about how to certify a document
Post Office Certifies Documents across the UK
The Post Office is one of the most popular ways to get documents certified in the UK.
You’ll find Post Offices up and down the country, from city centres to remote tiny villages. This makes it one of the most accessible places to get documents certified. It's a trusted service, owned by the government, which adds an extra layer of credibility to the certification process.
⚠️ It’s important to note that not every Post Office branch offers document certification. To find Post Office branches that certify documents, check their branch-finder.
Read more about who can certify documents in the UK
Preparing Your Documents for Post Office Certification
Before you head to the Post Office, make sure you know exactly what documents need to be certified and what you need to bring with you, usually you will need to present the original document along the copies for verification.
To save time and ensure a smooth process at the Post Office, organise your documents. Keep all related documents together and remove any staples or bindings that might make it difficult to copy or stamp the papers.
💡 Don’t forget to bring along a valid form of identification, as the Post Office staff will need to verify your identity before they can certify your documents.
Read more: What is Apostille?
The Post Office Document Certification Process
Going to get your documents certified at the Post Office for the first time can feel a bit intimidating - but it doesn’t have to be!
Here’s a step-by-step guide as to what to expect:
- Visit Your Local Post Office: Choose a time when it’s less likely to be crowded to avoid long waits.
- Approach the Service Counter: Once at the Post Office, go to the service counter and inform the staff that you need document certification services.
- Document and ID Verification: The staff will check your documents alongside your identification to ensure everything matches up and is in order.
- Certification: Your documents will then be stamped or marked by the Post Office as certified true copies. This mark verifies that the copies are accurate and true to the originals.
- Completion: Once certified, the documents are handed back to you, along with a receipt if there are any charges involved.
💡 Be aware that you’ll have to pay a fee of £12.75 for up to three copies, with the fee increasing the more certified copies you need.
After document certification
After your documents have been certified, there are a few things you should consider:
- Keep Your Documents Safe: Store your certified copies in a secure place. These are official documents and can be crucial for your future needs.
- Use Them as Required: Use your Post Office certified documents according to your needs, whether it's for job applications, legal matters, or academic purposes.
- Future Certifications: Keep in mind that some entities might require certifications to be no older than a certain timeframe. It’s wise to check if there are any requirements like this beforehand so you can plan your certifications accordingly.
- Follow-Up: If there are any issues with the certification or if additional copies are needed, remember that the Post Office is there to assist you with these services anytime.
Remember to prepare your documents ahead of time and bring along proper identification to make the process even smoother!
Can't be bothered to queue at the Local Post Office?
You can soon certify your documents online with Aatos, avoiding the need to visit a local post office. This service allows you to handle certification from the comfort of your own home.
Aatos will shortly introduce an online document certification service that is affordable, quick, and easy to use. You will be able to get all your necessary documents certified swiftly without the need to queue or meet anyone in person.
In the meantime, explore our other legal services for only £99. For example, create a Last Will and a Lasting Power of Attorney in just 10 minutes. The price also includes home delivery, unlimited revisions, digital storage, and ongoing legal support whenever you need it. Additionally, the price provides unlimited access to electronically sign PDF documents online.
