Signer’s Checklist Before Your Appointment

To ensure a smooth notarization process, please review and complete the following steps before our scheduled meeting:

1. Confirm Appointment Details

Once your appointment is confirmed, please provide me with your full legal name exactly as it appears on your photo ID.
This allows me to verify that your documents match your identification and helps avoid any delays or issues.

2. Prepare the Documents

Gather all documents that require notarization.
Ensure all necessary information is filled out except for any signatures that require notarization—those must be signed in my presence.

3. Identification

Have at least one valid, government-issued photo ID ready. Accepted forms of identification include:
- California driver’s license
- California identification card
- U.S. passport
- U.S. military ID card
- Tribal identification card
For jail signings: A jail ID card or official facility documentation may be accepted. If no ID is available, credible witnesses may be required.

4. Review Your Documents

Take time to review and understand your documents.
Do not sign them before the notarization appointment.
In some cases, I may bring the documents with me, so please confirm ahead of time whether you or I will be providing them.

5. Signing Requirements

Most of the time, we will sign in blue ink. This helps distinguish the original signed document from copies, and many lenders and institutions specifically prefer or require blue ink for this reason.

6. Contact Information

Confirm that I have your correct phone number and meeting address for last-minute updates.
Please also let me know if there are any parking restrictions near the location (e.g., limited parking, paid parking, or gated access) so I can plan accordingly.

7. Location

Please ensure there is a quiet, distraction-free area available at the appointment location.
Provide a flat surface or table where I can comfortably review and notarize the documents.

8. Pets & Distractions

I have no issues with pets being present; however, please ensure they do not jump on the paperwork or cause distractions during the signing.
These are important legal documents, so both you and I will need a calm, focused environment to ensure accuracy and a smooth signing process.

9. Timing

Be on time for your appointment.
If you need to reschedule, please notify me as soon as possible.

10. Payment

Have your chosen payment method ready for applicable notarization fees.

11. Additional Parties

Confirm the availability of any co-signers, witnesses, or other individuals required during the signing.

12. Questions or Concerns

Write down any questions you may have so we can address them at the appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What documents do I need to bring?

Bring a valid, government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or state ID) and any documents requiring notarization.

Do I need to sign my documents beforehand?

No. All signatures must be made in the presence of the notary to ensure validity.

What if I don’t have an ID?

You may bring two credible witnesses who personally know both you and the notary. They must present valid IDs and sign the notary’s journal.

What are credible witnesses, and when are they needed?

Credible witnesses confirm your identity when a valid photo ID isn’t available. In California, two witnesses are required. They must know you and the notary, be impartial, and sign the notary’s journal.

Can a notary act as a witness?

Yes, a notary may act as a credible witness if they personally know the signer. However, they cannot notarize their own signature or witness documents in which they are personally involved.

What if the signing takes place in jail or detention?

Signers may use a jail ID or official facility documentation. If unavailable, credible witnesses may be used where allowed.

Can someone else be present during the signing?

Yes, but only individuals who are parties to the transaction may sign. Others may observe but cannot sign.

Can the notary answer questions about my documents?

A notary can explain the notarization process and the steps being performed, but cannot provide legal advice or explain the contents, terms, or legal implications of your documents. For legal guidance, consult an attorney.

Can a notary review or suggest changes to my documents?

No. Notaries do not review documents for accuracy, completeness, or legality, and they cannot suggest edits or changes. Their role is limited to witnessing signatures and verifying identity.

How long does a notarization take?

Most appointments last 15–60 minutes, depending on the number of documents and signer questions.

What forms of ID are accepted?

State-issued driver’s license or ID
Passport (U.S. or foreign)
U.S. Military ID
Jail or detention ID (for signings in custody)

Can you notarize documents in another language?

Yes, as long as the signer and notary can communicate directly. The notary does not need to understand the document, only that the signer does.

Can you notarize copies of documents?

Notaries cannot certify copies of vital records but may notarize a sworn statement attesting that a copy is true and correct.

Do you offer mobile notary services?

Yes, I travel to your location home, office, hospital, or jail. Travel fees may apply depending on distance.

Can you notarize for minors?

Yes, minors can be notarized if they have valid ID and understand the document. Parental presence may be required depending on the document type.

Can a notary refuse service?

Yes, if:

The signer cannot provide ID or credible witnesses
The signer is unwilling, coerced, or confused
The document is incomplete or has blank spaces
The notarization is outside the notary’s authority

What types of documents are commonly notarized?

Power of Attorney
Real estate and loan documents
Affidavits and sworn statements
Trusts and estate planning documents
Business contracts
Travel or permission forms for minors

Are there travel or convenience fees?

Yes, travel fees are added based on distance. Fees are communicated before the appointment for transparency.

How should I prepare for the appointment?

Gather all required documents and ID
Do not sign documents in advance
Ensure the signing area is free of distractions
Pets are allowed if they don’t interfere with the signing

Is notarization confidential?

Yes, notarizations are private and secure. Notaries keep a journal for legal compliance but do not disclose document contents.

Can documents be notarized at my workplace or home?

Yes, mobile notaries can meet you at any convenient location.

Do you notarize documents for estate planning?

Yes, including wills, powers of attorney, and trusts. I do not provide legal advice but ensure documents are notarized correctly for legal validity.

What if I need multiple signers in different locations?

I can coordinate mobile signings for multiple parties, either at one location or separate locations, ensuring all notarizations are valid.

Can notarization be done on weekends or evenings?

Yes, appointments can be scheduled outside normal business hours with advance notice.

Do you offer apostille services?

Yes! An apostille is a certification that authenticates a notarized document for use in another country that is part of the Hague Apostille Convention. It verifies that the notary signature is genuine and the document is legally valid abroad.

What you need to provide for an apostille:

The document(s) you need apostilled
A valid government-issued photo ID
Payment for notarization and apostille processing fees

Once notarized, the document can be submitted to the appropriate state office for the official apostille certification.

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