No, signing a contract in front of a notary is not required. A notary's involvement does not make a contract somehow more binding or more enforceable than it otherwise would be. (To learn what makes a contract legally valid, see the "What makes a contract legally enforceable?" section in Understanding Contracts.)
Promissory notes are quite simple and can be prepared by anyone. They do not need to be prepared by a lawyer or be notarized. It isn't even particularly significant whether a promissory note is handwritten or typed and printed.
No, you can't play your own promissory note.
Yes, a properly executed promissory note is legally binding. As long as the note contains all necessary elements, is signed by the involved parties, and complies with applicable laws, it's enforceable in court if the borrower defaults or fails to meet their obligations.
A promissory note must include the date of the loan, the loan amount, the names of both the lender and borrower, the interest rate on the loan, and the timeline for repayment. Once the document is signed by both parties, it becomes a legally binding contract.
But what exactly do you need to write a promissory note? Include their full legal names, addresses, and contact numbers—include any co-signers if applicable. The terms of this note should specify the amount borrowed, repayment terms (including interest rate, if applicable), and the due date or schedule of payments.
Here's the information you'll need to complete it: Who it's going to (borrower): Ensure you have the name and contact information of the recipient (borrower) ready. Date: Get the date on which the original promissory note was issued. Payment due: Keep the figure of the due loan amount ready.
A promissory note must include the date of the loan, the loan amount, the names of both the lender and borrower, the interest rate on the loan, and the timeline for repayment. Once the document is signed by both parties, it becomes a legally binding contract.
A comprehensive promissory note typically includes: Names and contact information of the parties involved. Loan amount. Repayment terms. Interest rate (if applicable) Consequences of default (in case payments are missed) Governing law. Signatures of the borrower and lender.