FAQ's - Mobile Notary St Louis

1. What does it mean to notarize a document? 

The notary verifies the authenticity of the signatures on the document and confirms the identity of the signers. 

2. Can any document be notarized? 

Pretty much. We can notarize a handwritten statement on a napkin. What our job is to witness the signing and verify the identity of the signer. Therefore the document itself isn’t so much a concern as long as it is complete. 

3. Can I refuse to notarize a document? 

Yes if you feel the document is questionable for some reason - but really your focus needs to be on the signer and making sure they are aware of what they are signing and that their ID matches their physical appearance and is valid. 

4. Can I notarize a document in a different state or country? 

No, a notary can only notarize documents in the state in which they are commissioned in. Almost all states also allow a notary to notarize anywhere within the state that they are commissioned. 

5. What is a jurat and how is it used? 

A jurat is a notarial certificate where the signer swears or affirms the truth of the contents of the document. It's used for affidavits and sworn statements. 

6. Are there specific rules for notarizing wills or other legal documents? 

Notarizing wills and other legal documents may have specific requirements depending on your jurisdiction. It's essential to follow local laws or have the customer consult with an attorney if necessary. 

7. Can a notarized document be invalidated? 

Notarization does not guarantee the content of a document is valid or legally binding. Legal validity depends on the content and compliance with applicable laws. 

8. Can a notary notarize their own signature? 

No, a notary cannot notarize their own signature. Notaries are prohibited from notarizing any document in which they have a personal interest. 

9. Can a notary notarize a document in a foreign language? 

Yes, notaries can notarize documents in a foreign language, but they must be able to communicate with the signer and understand the document's purpose 

10. What is the difference between an acknowledgment and a jurat? 

An acknowledgment verifies the identity of the signer and confirms they signed the document willingly. A jurat, on the other hand, requires the signer to swear or affirm the document's truth. 

11. Can a notary notarize a document if the signer is mentally incapacitated? 

Notaries should not notarize a document if they believe the signer is mentally incapacitated or unable to understand the document they are signing. 

12. Can a notary refuse to notarize a document for an undocumented immigrant? 

Notaries typically cannot refuse to notarize a document solely based on a person's immigration status. They should focus on verifying identity and willingness to sign. 

13. What is a notary seal, and why is it used? 

A notary seal is an official stamp that signifies the notary's authority and authenticity of the notarization. It is a key part of the notarization process. 

14. Can a notary public provide legal advice? 

Notaries cannot provide legal advice. Their role is limited to verifying identities and notarizing documents. 

15. Can I notarize a document for a family member? 

Notaries should not notarize documents for family members. 

16. What should I do if I make a mistake on a notarized document? 

If a mistake is made on a notarized document, you should line through your mistake, initial it and correct it. In the case that doesn’t fix the issue, the document may need to be re-printed and notarized again. 

17. What is the purpose of a notary journal or record book? 

A notary journal or record book is used to maintain a record of notarized transactions, which can serve as evidence of the notarization and help prevent fraud. 

18. Can a notary public notarize a document for a minor? 

Notaries can notarize documents for minors as long as the minor can provide valid identification and the document is appropriate for their age. 

19. Can a notary public notarize a document for an individual with disabilities? 

Notaries can notarize documents for individuals with disabilities if they can communicate their identity and willingness to sign. Special considerations may apply for those with significant disabilities. 

20. What are the consequences of notarizing a fraudulent document? 

Notaries who knowingly notarize a fraudulent document may face legal consequences, including fines and loss of their notary commission. 

21. Are there any documents that cannot be notarized? 

Some documents, such as documents with blank spaces for critical information, may not be eligible for notarization. The notary should ensure the document is complete before notarizing. 

22. Can a notary public notarize a document for a person with limited English proficiency? 

Notaries can notarize documents for individuals with limited English proficiency, as long as they can communicate their identity, willingness to sign and understanding of the document they are signing. The use of an interpreter is NOT allowed. Communication must be direct with the signer. 

23. Is it necessary to notarize every page of a multi-page document? 

Notaries typically do not need to notarize every page of a multi-page document. Usually, notarization is done on the final page or where the signature(s) appear. 

24. Can a notary public notarize a document for someone who is not physically present? 

In most cases, notaries are required to notarize documents only in the physical presence of the signer. Remote notarization is an exception in some jurisdictions. 

25. What is the purpose of a notary bond? 

A notary bond is a financial guarantee that a notary public will fulfill their duties ethically and according to the law. It offers protection to the public in case of errors or wrongdoing by the notary. 

26. Can a notary public notarize a document for someone who does not have government-issued identification? 

Notaries typically require government-issued identification for notarization. If the signer lacks such ID, alternative methods such as credible witnesses may be accepted. 

27. How does Errors & Omission insurance protect a notary? 

Errors and omissions (E&O) insurance, also known as professional liability insurance, is a type of insurance that protects notaries and other professionals from liability associated with mistakes or negligence in their professional services. 

28. Can I skip entries in my notary journal and fill them in later? 

No, all entries must be sequential. If you need to skip and entry for some reason, write VOID in the blank entry. 

29. What is the basic information that needs to be recorded in a notary journal? 

A notary public is typically required to maintain a notary journal or record book to record essential information about each notarization they perform. 

The exact requirements can vary by state, but the following are the basic details a notary should record in their notary journal: 

● Date and Time: Record the date and time of the notarization. This helps establish when the notarization occurred.

 ● Type of Notarial Act: Specify whether the notarial act is an acknowledgment, jurat, oath or affirmation, witnessing a signature, or another type of notarization. Different types of notarizations may require different procedures. 

● Name of the Signer: Include the full name of the person whose signature is being notarized. Ensure that the name on the document matches the name provided by the signer. 

● Address of the Signer: Record the residential or business address of the signer. This helps verify the identity of the signer. 

● Type of Identification: Note the type of identification presented by the signer. Common forms of identification include driver's licenses, passports, state-issued ID cards, and other government-issued documents. 

● Identification Number: Record the identification number from the presented ID document. This is usually a driver's license or ID card number. (TX does not allow) 

● Method of Identification: Specify how the notary identified the signer, whether through personal knowledge, inspection of the identification document, or through credible identifying witnesses. 

● Fee Charged: Indicate the fee charged for the notarial service, if applicable. Notary fees are regulated by state law and can vary.

● Document Information: Record the type of document notarized, including the document's title or description. If there is a document date, note it as well. 

● Signer's Capacity: If the document identifies the capacity or title of the signer (e.g., "John Smith, President"), record this information. .

● Location of Notarization: Specify the location where the notarization took place, including the city or county. This is important for jurisdictional purposes. 

● Additional Notes: Provide any relevant additional notes or comments related to the notarization, such as unusual circumstances or observations. 

● Signature of the Signer: Request the signer's signature in the journal as an acknowledgment that the notarization took place. 

● Signature of Any Witnesses: If witnesses are required, obtain their signatures in the journal. 

30. Types of General Notary documents you may need notarized over time:

Real Estate Documents: Deeds Mortgages Promissory notes Title transfers Lease agreements Easements Home equity loans 

Estate Planning Documents: Last will and testament Living wills Powers of attorney Trust documents 

Financial and Business Documents: Contracts Agreements Loan documents Financial affidavits Business formation documents (e.g., articles of incorporation) Stock powers Bills of sale Investment documents 

Legal Affidavits and Declarations: Affidavits of support Sworn statements Affidavits of identity Affidavits of heirship Affidavits of domicile 

Government-Related Documents: Adoption papers Immigration documents DMV-related documents (e.g., vehicle title transfers) Passport applications Voter registration forms 

Family and Personal Documents: Marriage certificates Divorce decrees Child custody agreements Guardianship agreements Name change petitions Pre-nuptial agreements

Notarized Copies: Some states allow notarization of copies of documents to certify that they are true and accurate copies of the original. 

Medical Documents: Medical power of attorney Advanced healthcare directives Organ donation consent forms 

Oaths and Affirmations: Notaries can administer oaths and affirmations for individuals making solemn declarations, such as for court testimonies or official statements. 

Bill of Sale for Vehicles and Personal Property: When selling vehicles, boats, or valuable personal property, a notarized bill of sale can provide proof of the transaction. 

Releases and Waivers: Some legal documents, like liability waivers, may require notarization to ensure their validity and enforceability. 

Custody and Adoption Documents: Documents related to child custody arrangements, adoptions, and parental consents may require notarization. 

Promissory Notes and Loan Agreements: Loan agreements and promissory notes may be notarized to add legal weight to the financial transaction. 

Court Documents: Some legal documents used in court proceedings, like affidavits, may require notarization. It's important to note that notarization requirements can vary by state, and specific document types may have additional requirements.

We provide loan signing services for mortgage lenders, title companies, and signing agencies. Our notary will ensure that all loan documents are correctly signed and notarized.

Our notary has experience with real estate documents and can notarize deeds, affidavits, and other documents related to real estate transactions.

We offer notary services for power of attorney documents, ensuring that they are properly executed and notarized.

We offer notary public services for a variety of documents, including wills, trusts, and medical directives.

We understand that notarization needs can arise at any time, which is why we offer 24/7 availability for scheduling our notary services on our website.