FAQ

What is a mobile notary and what do they do?

A mobile notary is a notary public who is able to travel to different locations to notarize documents. Mobile notaries are often hired to perform notarizations for individuals who are unable to go to a notary's office, such as people who are hospitalized, in jail, or living in remote areas.

The role of a notary public is to serve as an impartial witness to the signing of documents. A notary is responsible for verifying the identity of the person signing the document, ensuring that they are signing the document willingly and of their own free will, and maintaining a record of the notarization in a notary journal.

Mobile notaries may be called upon to notarize a wide variety of documents, including legal documents, contracts, deeds, and power of attorney forms. In some cases, a mobile notary may also be able to provide other services, such as administering oaths and affirmations, taking depositions, and performing wedding ceremonies.

How do I find a mobile notary near me?

Search online directories: Many websites list mobile notaries by location, such as Notary.net or Notary Finder. Simply enter your zip code to find a notary near you.

Ask for recommendations: Ask friends, family, or colleagues if they know of any mobile notaries in your area.

Contact a local notary association: Many states have local notary associations that can provide recommendations for mobile notaries in your area.

Contact your bank or credit union: Many financial institutions have notaries on staff or can refer you to a mobile notary in your area.

Check with a local attorney or real estate agency: These professionals often work with notaries and may be able to provide recommendations.

Can a mobile notary witness my signature on a document?

Yes, a mobile notary can witness your signature on a document. A mobile notary is a notary public who is authorized to notarize documents at the request of the signer, regardless of location. The mobile notary will witness you signing the document and will then notarize the document by affixing their official seal and signature. It is important to note that the mobile notary cannot give legal advice or suggest what you should sign. They are simply there to witness and confirm that you are signing the document of your own free will.

Do I need to make an appointment with a mobile notary?

Yes, it is typically necessary to make an appointment with a mobile notary in advance. Mobile notaries often have flexible schedules, but it is still important to schedule a time that is convenient for both parties. This ensures that the notary is available to meet with you and can bring all necessary documents and equipment. You can usually make an appointment with a mobile notary by contacting them directly or through their website.

Can a mobile notary notarize any type of document?

A mobile notary can notarize any type of document as long as it is legally acceptable and the notary is authorized to perform the notarization. However, some types of documents may require additional qualifications or training for the notary to be able to properly notarize them. For example, some states may require notaries to have additional training or certification to notarize real estate documents or documents related to immigration. It is important to check with the notary and your state's laws to ensure that the notary is qualified to notarize the specific type of document you need.

How much does it cost to use a mobile notary's services?

The cost of using a mobile notary's services can vary widely depending on several factors, including the location, the complexity of the documents being notarized, and the notary's experience and reputation. In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200 or more for a mobile notary's services. Some mobile notaries may also charge additional fees for travel, time of day, or other special requests. It is always a good idea to ask for an estimate or quote before agreeing to use a mobile notary's services to ensure you are aware of all the costs involved.

Is a mobile notary's signature and seal legally valid?

Yes, a mobile notary's signature and seal are legally valid as long as the notary is properly commissioned and follows all applicable laws and regulations. Mobile notaries have the same authority as traditional notaries to notarize documents and witness the signing of documents.

Can a mobile notary notarize documents remotely (e.g. via video conference)?

Yes, a mobile notary can notarize documents remotely through video conference as long as the notary follows their state's guidelines for remote notarization. This typically includes the use of a secure audio-visual platform, identification verification through a government-issued ID or passport, and the presence of at least one witness. It is important to check with the notary and the state to ensure that the remote notarization is valid and meets all necessary requirements.

Do I need to bring any identification with me to a mobile notary appointment?

Yes, you should bring identification with you to a mobile notary appointment. This can include a government-issued ID such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The notary will need to verify your identity before performing the notarization.

Can a mobile notary provide translation services for documents in a foreign language?

It is possible for a mobile notary to provide translation services for documents in a foreign language, but it depends on the specific notary's qualifications and expertise. Some mobile notaries may have the necessary language skills and training to provide translation services, while others may not. It is important to confirm with the mobile notary if they are able to provide translation services before hiring them for the job.

Can a mobile notary administer oaths or affirmations?

Yes, a mobile notary can administer oaths or affirmations as part of their duties. As a notary public, they are authorized to administer oaths and affirmations to individuals who are signing documents or giving testimony in legal proceedings. This may involve asking the individual to swear or affirm to the truthfulness of their statements, and may require the individual to raise their right hand or place their hand on a Bible or other sacred text.

Can a mobile notary prepare legal documents?

Yes, a mobile notary can prepare legal documents as part of their duties as a notary public. However, it is important to note that a mobile notary's role is limited to verifying the identity of the signatories, administering oaths, and attesting to the authenticity of the documents. They are not licensed to provide legal advice or representation, and they cannot prepare legal documents beyond their notarial duties. If you need legal documents prepared, it is advisable to seek the services of a licensed attorney.

Can a mobile notary provide apostille or certification services?

Yes, a mobile notary can provide apostille or certification services as long as they are properly trained and certified to do so. An apostille is a form of certification that is recognized by countries that are part of the Hague Convention, and it is typically used for documents that will be used internationally. A mobile notary who is trained and certified to provide apostille services can authenticate and legalize documents by affixing an apostille stamp or certificate to them. Similarly, a mobile notary can also provide certification services by authenticating and certifying documents for use within the United States.

Can a mobile notary notarize documents for multiple signers at the same time?

Yes, a mobile notary can notarize documents for multiple signers at the same time as long as all of the signers are physically present and can provide proper identification. However, the notary must ensure that each signer understands the document they are signing and that they are signing it voluntarily. The notary must also ensure that the signers are acting of their own free will and not under duress or coercion.

Can a mobile notary notarize a power of attorney document?

Yes, a mobile notary can notarize a power of attorney document. A power of attorney is a legal document that allows an individual (the "principal") to appoint another individual (the "agent" or "attorney-in-fact") to act on their behalf in financial or legal matters. The mobile notary will witness the signing of the power of attorney document and verify the identity of the principal and the agent. They will then affix their official seal and signature to the document, indicating that the document has been notarized. It is important to note that the mobile notary is not responsible for the content of the power of attorney document, but rather their role is to verify the authenticity of the document and the signatures of the parties involved.

Can a mobile notary notarize a living will or advance healthcare directive?

Yes, a mobile notary can notarize a living will or advance healthcare directive as long as the document is properly executed and the signer is competent to sign the document. The notary should also verify the identity of the signer and ensure that the document is signed willingly and without coercion.

Can a mobile notary notarize a will or trust document?

Yes, a mobile notary can notarize a will or trust document. However, the notary must follow all state and federal laws and guidelines for notarizing these types of documents, including ensuring that the person signing the document is competent and understands the nature and consequences of the document. The notary must also witness the signature of the person signing the document and ensure that the document is properly executed and witnessed according to the laws of the state where the notarization is taking place.

Can a mobile notary notarize a deed or real estate documents?

Yes, a mobile notary can notarize a deed or real estate documents. In order to do so, the notary must witness the signing of the documents and verify the identity of the signer. The notary must also ensure that the signer is signing the documents voluntarily and is aware of the content of the documents being signed. The notary will then affix their notary seal and signature to the documents to authenticate them. It is important to note that some states may have specific requirements or limitations on the types of real estate documents that a mobile notary can notarize. It is always best to check with the state laws and regulations before proceeding with a notarization.

Can a mobile notary notarize a loan or mortgage document?

Yes, a mobile notary can notarize a loan or mortgage document. However, it is important to note that the notary must be able to verify the identity of the person signing the document and ensure that they are signing the document willingly and without any undue influence. The notary must also ensure that the document is properly completed and properly witnessed, if required.

Can a mobile notary notarize a bill of sale or other financial documents?

Yes, a mobile notary can notarize a bill of sale or other financial documents. However, the notary must follow all state laws and guidelines for notarizing financial documents, including verifying the identity of the signer and ensuring that the document is signed willingly and without coercion. The notary must also have a clear understanding of the content of the document being notarized and ensure that it is properly executed before notarizing it.