Frequently Asked Questions
- What documents can a notary public certify?
- Notaries can certify a wide range of documents including affidavits, contracts, deeds, powers of attorney, loan documents, and other legal paperwork. We cannot certify documents that require specialized knowledge like medical or engineering certifications.
- How do I prepare for my notary appointment?
- Bring your unsigned document, valid government-issued photo ID, and any required witnesses. Ensure all signers are present and understand the document. Do not sign the document before meeting with the notary as we must witness the signing.
- What forms of identification are acceptable?
- We accept current government-issued photo IDs such as driver's licenses, passports, state ID cards, or military IDs. The ID must be original (not a photocopy), current, and contain your photograph and signature.
- Can you notarize documents in foreign languages?
- Yes, we can notarize documents in other languages as long as the notarial certificate is in English. However, we cannot verify the content of foreign language documents unless we are fluent in that language.
- What's the difference between an acknowledgment and a jurat?
- An acknowledgment verifies the identity of the signer and confirms they signed willingly. A jurat requires the signer to swear or affirm that the contents are true, which involves an oath administered by the notary.
- Do you offer mobile notary services?
- Yes, we provide mobile notary services for an additional fee. Our notary can meet you at your home, office, or other convenient location within our service area. Contact us to discuss mobile notary arrangements.
- How long does a notarization remain valid?
- The notarization itself doesn't expire, but some institutions may require recent notarizations (typically within 30-90 days). The underlying document may have its own expiration requirements that are separate from the notarization.
Still Have Questions?
If you didn't find the answer to your question here, please don't hesitate to reach out to our knowledgeable team. We're happy to clarify any aspect of the notarization process.