FAQs
Who can act as a witness for my signing?
A witness should be a neutral third party with nothing to gain or loose in the document being signed. Witnesses CAN BE neighbors, friends, colleagues, the nanny/housekeeper, or hired care givers.
In general, hospital/care facility employees are prohibited from acting as witnesses to a signing. For notarized documents, family members or anyone who has a financial interest in the paperwork CANNOT be used either.
For witnesses who are present to establish the signer’s identity, they must have valid photo ID and must be willing to swear about the identity of the signer.
What forms of payment do you take?
I accept card payments and cash.
What type of identification do I need for the signing? What happens if I do not have any of the forms of identification needed for the signing?
Signers are most commonly identified by either a VALID (not expired) driver’s license, state issue ID card, state issued senior ID card, ID card or US passport. Unfortunately, Social Security Cards, credit cards, license extensions, expired ID cards or birth certificates cannot be used.
If there is no valid ID, then you must arrange to have two witnesses present who can swear under oath that the signer is who he/she/they/them says he/she/they/them are. These 2 witnesses must present valid photo ID.
Can you notarize a birth certificate?
A Notary is not authorized to notarize or certify a copy of a birth certificate.
Only a custodian of vital records can properly certify an original or copy of a birth certificate. Only that official can verify that the birth information is accurate. Any other so-called certification by a Notary or anyone else is improper.
I am not sure which type of notarization I need for my estate documents, can you advise me?
Please consult your attorney. I am often asked about the various forms, and since I am not an Attorney, I cannot offer advice. Notaries are legally prohibited from providing forms. By working with an attorney, you will be confident that your paperwork accurately reflects your wishes in regards to your estate plan.
What are the standard fees for notarization?
The standard fee is $15 per signature needing to be notarized, whether it is an acknowledgement or a jurat. There may be an additional fee for travel as well.