FAQs

1. What is a notary public?
   A notary public is an official appointed by the state to serve as an impartial witness during the signing of important documents, helping to prevent fraud and ensure proper execution.

2. Which types of documents require notarization?
   Common documents include affidavits, powers of attorney, wills, deeds, and contracts.

3. What identification is needed for notarization?
   Generally, a valid, government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport, is required.

4. Can a notary provide legal advice?
   No, notaries are prohibited from offering legal advice unless they are also licensed attorneys.

5. How much does notarization cost?
   Fees vary by state; for example, in Colorado, the maximum fee is $15 per document.

Mobile Notaries:

1. What is a mobile notary?
   A mobile notary travels to clients' locations to perform notarizations, offering convenience for those unable to visit a notary's office.

2. How do mobile notaries differ from traditional notaries?
   Unlike traditional notaries who operate from a fixed location, mobile notaries provide services at the client's preferred location.

3. Are travel fees charged by mobile notaries?
   Yes, in addition to notarization fees, mobile notaries typically charge for travel, with rates varying by distance and state regulations.

4. How do I schedule an appointment with a mobile notary?
   Appointments can usually be scheduled by contacting the mobile notary directly via phone or email.

5. What are the benefits of using a mobile notary?
   They offer flexibility, convenience, and can accommodate urgent or non-standard hour requests.

Legal Documents

1. Affidavits – Sworn written statements used in legal proceedings.

2. Wills and Trusts – To ensure authenticity and validity.

3. Power of Attorney – Grants authority to another person to act on your behalf.

4. Divorce Agreements – Verifies agreements between parties.

5. Adoption Papers – Required for legal adoption processes.

Real Estate Documents

1. Deeds of Trust – Transfers ownership or interest in property.

2. Mortgage Documents – Required for home loans and refinancing.

3. Property Transfers – Includes grant deeds and quitclaim deeds.

4. Lease Agreements – Especially for long-term leases.

5. Lien Releases – Confirms the release of claims on property.

Financial Documents

1. Loan Documents – Mortgages, personal loans, and business loans.

2. Promissory Notes – A written promise to pay a specified sum.

3. Financial Statements – Often required for business transactions.

4. Contracts and Agreements – Business or personal agreements.

Business Documents

1. Articles of Incorporation – To establish a corporation legally.

2. Partnership Agreements – Formalizes partnerships.

3. Vendor Contracts – Used to secure agreements between businesses.

4. Employment Contracts – Ensures enforceability of terms.

Medical Documents

1. Advance Healthcare Directives – Specifies medical wishes in case of incapacitation.

2. Medical Authorization Forms – Allows others to make medical decisions.

International Documents

1. Apostilles – Certifies documents for use in foreign countries.

2. Passports and Travel Consent Forms – For minors traveling without both parents.

Miscellaneous Documents

1. Vehicle Titles – For transfer or sale of vehicles.

2. Guardianship Agreements – Establishes legal guardianship.

3. Marriage Licenses or Certificates – In certain cases for validation.

4. Bills of Sale – Confirms the sale of personal property.

1. What is a loan signing agent?
   A loan signing agent is a notary public trained to handle and notarize loan documents, often working with real estate transactions.

2. How does a loan signing agent differ from a notary public?
   While all loan signing agents are notaries, they have specialized training in loan documents, whereas general notaries handle a broader range of documents.

3. Do loan signing agents explain loan documents to signers?
   They can identify documents and point out terms but cannot provide legal advice or interpret the meaning of documents.

4. What are the requirements to become a loan signing agent?
   Requirements vary by state but generally include being a commissioned notary, completing specialized training, and passing a background check.

5. How much do loan signing agents charge?
   Fees will start at $100 and will vary based on the complexity of the assignment and current market rates.

Acknowledgment - A formal declaration by a signer, before a notary public, affirming that the signature on a document is genuine and made willingly. No oath is required.

Affiant - A person who swears to or affirms the contents of an affidavit.

Apostille - A certification issued by the Secretary of State that authenticates the origin of a public document for use in a foreign country under the Hague Apostille Convention.

Certified Copy - A copy of a document confirmed by a notary to be a true and accurate reproduction of the original. Note: Notaries cannot certify copies of vital records (e.g., birth certificates).

Commission - The authorization granted by the state government for an individual to act as a notary public.

Credible Witness - A trustworthy person who identifies a signer to a notary if the signer lacks acceptable identification.

Jurat - A type of notarization in which the signer swears or affirms that the contents of a document are true. The signer must sign in the notary’s presence and take an oath.

Oath or Affirmation - A solemn promise to tell the truth, often required for affidavits and depositions. An affirmation is a non-religious alternative to an oath.

Principal - The person who executes a document and whose signature requires notarization.

Signature Witnessing - A notarization confirming the identity of a signer and witnessing the signature without an oath or affirmation.

Signer - The individual whose signature is being notarized.

Venue - The location where the notarization takes place, typically including the county and state.

Witness - An individual who observes the signing of a document and may be required for certain types of notarizations or legal processes.