Before Your Appointment

1. Check Your ID: Make sure you have a valid government-issued photo ID. Acceptable forms include a driver’s license, state ID, passport, or military ID. The ID must be current or expired within the last 4 years.

2. Review Your Document: Read through your document before the appointment. Make sure all information is correct and all required fields are filled in. Leave signature lines blank.

3. Do Not Sign Yet: Do not sign your document before the appointment. You must sign in front of me for the notarization to be valid.

4. Check for Witness Requirements: Some documents require witnesses in addition to notarization. If you’re unsure, check with the organization requesting the notarization or call me.

5. Arrange Payment: Have your payment method ready. I accept ACH, Paypal, Venmo, debit cards and major credit cards.

What to Bring

Required Items:

• Valid photo ID with your current legal name

• The unsigned document to be notarized

• Payment for notary services

If Applicable:

• Witnesses (if your document requires them)

• Additional copies if you need multiple notarized versions

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Signing Before the Appointment: This is the most common mistake. If you sign before I arrive or before we start the video session, I cannot notarize the document. You’ll need to get a new copy of the document.

Expired or Invalid ID: Make sure your ID is current or expired within the last 4 years. I cannot accept expired IDs beyond that timeframe.

Blank Spaces in the Document: Fill in all required information before the appointment. Documents with blank spaces cannot be notarized.

Wrong Name on ID: The name on your ID must match the name on the document. If you recently changed your name, bring documentation of the name change.

Missing Witnesses: If your document requires witnesses, make sure they’re present at the appointment with their own valid IDs.

For Mobile Notary Appointments

If I’m coming to your location:

• Choose a quiet, well-lit space for the signing

• Have a table or hard surface available for signing

• Minimize distractions during the appointment

• Make sure all signers and witnesses are present on time

For Remote Online Notarization

If we’re doing a RON session:

• Test your device’s camera and microphone beforehand

• Make sure you have a stable internet connection

• Have your photo ID ready to show on camera

• Find a quiet location with good lighting

• Have the document in PDF format ready to upload

During the Appointment

Here’s what happens during your notarization:

• I’ll verify your identity using your photo ID

• I’ll confirm you understand what you’re signing

• You’ll sign the document in my presence

• I’ll complete the notarial certificate and apply my seal

• You’ll receive your notarized document