Frequently Asked Questions

A notary public is an official appointed by the state to serve as an impartial witness in performing various fraud-deterrent acts. Notaries verify the identity of signers, ensure they are signing willingly and are aware of the contents of the document, and administer oaths when required. Common services include notarizing contracts, affidavits, powers of attorney, and real estate documents.

You'll need a valid, government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) and the document to be notarized. The document should be complete but unsigned - you'll sign it in the notary's presence. If you're unsure about any requirements, call ahead to confirm what you need to bring.

Notary fees are regulated by state law and vary by location. Typical fees range from $5-$15 per signature or notarial act. Additional fees may apply for mobile notary services or after-hours appointments. We'll always provide you with clear pricing before beginning any notarization.

No, notaries cannot notarize documents for immediate family members (spouse, parents, children, siblings) or for documents in which they have a financial interest. This ensures impartiality and prevents conflicts of interest. You'll need to find another notary for these situations.

Yes! We provide mobile notary services where we come to your location at your convenience. This is perfect for real estate closings, hospital visits, office meetings, or when you simply can't make it to our office. Additional travel fees may apply depending on distance and timing.

Remote online notarization (RON) is available in many states and allows notarization via secure video conferencing. You'll need a computer with camera and microphone, plus identity verification through knowledge-based authentication. Not all document types qualify for RON, so check with us first.

You must be able to communicate directly with the notary and understand the nature of the transaction. If you need translation services, you'll need to bring a qualified interpreter. The notary cannot provide translation services but can notarize documents in foreign languages if they can verify your identity and willingness to sign.

Most notarizations take 5-10 minutes per document. This includes verifying your identity, ensuring you understand the document, witnessing your signature, and completing the notarial certificate. Complex documents or multiple signers may take longer. We recommend scheduling an appointment to avoid waiting.

Notaries cannot notarize incomplete documents, blank forms, documents with blank spaces that should be filled in, certified copies of vital records (birth/death certificates), or documents where they would benefit financially. We also cannot provide legal advice or help you decide what type of document you need.

Yes, properly notarized documents are generally recognized across all 50 states thanks to the Full Faith and Credit Clause of the Constitution. However, some states may have specific requirements for certain types of documents, so it's wise to check with the receiving institution or authority if you have concerns.