How to Prepare for a Notary Appointment...

Whether you're signing a critical business document or finalizing personal paperwork, ensuring your notary appointment goes smoothly is essential. Here's a couple of tips on how to be prepared and make the process as quick and efficient as possible.

1. Bring Valid Identification - I cannot tell you how many times this is the cause of a failed appointment. Your ID must be a government-issued PHOTO ID, such as a driver's license, passport or state ID. It is crucial that the ID must be current (not expired) and the name on the ID must match EXACTLY the name on the document you are signing.

2. Review the Document in Advance - take time to read through the document before your appointment. Ensure you understand its contents and are clear on where and what you need to sign. It is important to note that a Notary Public is NOT an attorney and cannot advise you on the document you are signing. If you have any questions about the document you are signing, you should address them with the party that is requesting your signature (attorney, title company, lender etc.)

3. Do Not Sign Until You're With the Notary - The notary needs to witness your signature to verify its authenticity. Don't sign the document ahead of time. The notary will guide you on when and where to sign during the appointment.

4. Ensure All Parties Are Present - If your document requires multiple signatures, make sure everyone involved is present at the appointment. All signers are required to provide valid identification and sign in the notary's presence.

5. Know the Fees - Be aware of the notary fees in advance. In many cases, notary fees are set by the state, but they can vary for additional services like mobile notary or after-hours appointments. Ask about fees when scheduling your appointment. Also note that the fee is PER notarization...not per document.

6. Bring All Necessary Documents - In addition to the document you need notarized - bring any documents you might think you will need pertaining to your transaction. It's better to be over-prepared than to get to the appointment and you're missing something important.

7. Consider Your Location - If you're meeting with a mobile notary or using a Remote Online Notary service (RON) ensure you're in a quiet well-lit space where you can focus on the task at hand. For Remote Online Notarizations, you'll need a reliable internet connection as well as a device with a camera and a microphone.

I hope this information helps you with your next notarization appointment. Remember, preparation is key - being ready means your document can be notarized without any hiccups.

If you have any questions about notarization or need any assistance, Sea Sweet Services is just a phone call away!

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