Rockland, ME · Knox County
Sole Proprietor Certificate
This certificate records a sole proprietor’s use of a business name other than their own, or certifies withdrawal from a sole proprietorship, for filing with the clerk where the business is carried on.
- licensed online notary
- ~15 min average
- Notarized PDF emailed
What you’ll need
- Government-issued photo ID
- Webcam-enabled device (laptop or phone)
- This form, ready to upload as a PDF
What this form is
The form includes a certificate for a sole proprietor adopting a name other than their own and a separate certificate for withdrawal from a sole proprietorship. The adoption certificate asks for the business type, adopted name, business address, proprietor’s name and residence, and a sworn statement. The form says the certificate must be deposited with the clerk of the city or town where the business is carried on and lists a $10 recording fee.
Who needs it
A sole proprietor adopting a business name other than their own, or certifying withdrawal from a sole proprietorship, can use the applicable certificate for filing with the clerk.
How to get this notarized
- 1
Download the Certificate
Download the Rockland Sole Proprietor Certificate and choose the adoption or withdrawal certificate that applies.
- 2
Fill In the Form
Complete the relevant business, name, address, and date information, leaving the oath and signature areas for the notary appointment.
- 3
Book an Online Notary
Schedule a remote appointment with a commissioned online notary.
- 4
Sign on Video
Appear on video, verify your identity, and sign and swear to the applicable certificate as directed by the notary.
- 5
Submit to the Clerk
Deposit the completed certificate with the clerk of the city or town where the business is carried on.
Preview the form
The blank PDF straight from Rockland. Look it over, then upload your filled copy to start the notary session.
You’ll need ID and a webcam.
A licensed online notary will join you on video, verify your government-issued ID, witness your signature, and apply their seal. You’ll receive the notarized PDF by email when the session ends.
Frequently asked questions
- How do I file this sole proprietor certificate?
- Complete the applicable certificate and swear to it before a notary. The form says to deposit the certificate with the clerk of the city or town where the business is carried on; it lists a $10 recording fee.
- Do I need to sign this certificate before a notary?
- Yes. The form includes an oath jurat for the adoption certificate and a sworn statement for the withdrawal certificate. Sign and swear to the applicable certificate before the notary.
- Can I use a commissioned online notary for this form?
- Maine law, 4 M.R.S. ch. 39, §1915, authorizes Maine notaries to perform notarial acts for remotely located individuals. Ask the filing clerk whether it accepts a remotely notarized certificate.
- Where should I file the certificate?
- The form says to deposit the certificate with the clerk of the city or town where the business is carried on. Confirm with the town, city, or county registry of deeds if unsure.
Sole Proprietor Certificate in other Maine cities
Each city publishes its own version of this form. Pick the city where you’re filing.