Why is notarization necessary?

• • Notarization adds an extra layer of authenticity and credibility to legal documents, reducing the risk of fraud or misunderstanding.

What types of documents require notarization?

• • Various legal documents often require notarization, including but not limited to: wills, deeds, affidavits, powers of attorney, contracts, and adoption papers.

What identification do I need to bring to have a document notarized?

• • Typically, you need to bring a government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID.

How much does notarization cost?

• • The cost of notary services varies based on your service needs, location, and jurisdiction.  As a Virginia-based company, we follow the state guidelines regarding our fees.  Our basic notary rates start at $5 per seal for in-person notarizations,  $25 per seal for U.S. remote online notarizations, and $75 per seal for International remote online notarizations.  The fees listed do not include the additional cost of any travel or real estate transaction loan closing fees.

Can a notary provide legal advice?

• • No, notaries cannot provide legal advice unless they are also qualified attorneys. Their role is strictly limited to witnessing signatures and verifying identities.

Remember that specific laws and regulations regarding notary services can vary by jurisdiction, so it's always a good idea to check with local authorities or legal professionals for guidance on notarization requirements in your area.

What is (RON) Remote Online Notarization?

• • A remote online notarization is a type of notarial act that takes place with the signer(s) and the notary online at the same time in two different physical locations. The notarization is performed using state-approved video and audio technology over the Internet.

Is RON legal?

• Yes, remote online notarization is legal in many states in the United States.  However, the laws and regulations governing remote online notarization vary by state.

What are the technology requirements for RON?

• All you need is a desktop, laptop, iPad, or mobile device with a stable internet connection that has video and audio capabilities. You are able to use any Windows or Mac operating system with the following compatible web browser, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, or Safari.

How secure is RON?

• RON platforms use a variety of security measures, including multi-factor authentication, encryption, and tamper-evident technology, to ensure the security and integrity of the notarial act. 

How much does RON Cost?

• The cost of RON varies based on your service needs, location, and jurisdiction.  As a Virginia-based company, we follow the state guidelines regarding our fees.  Our basic notary rates start at $5 per seal for in-person notarizations,  $25 per seal for U.S. remote online notarizations, and $75 per seal for International remote online notarizations.  The fees listed do not include the additional cost of any travel or real estate transaction loan closing fees.

Is RON available in all states?

• No, remote online notarization is not available in all states.  Many states have passed laws or issued executive orders authorizing or allowing remote notarizations.   

How are you able to provide RON Nationwide and Internationally?

• As a commissioned Virginia Electronic Notary, services are permitted outside of the state of VA as long as the notary providing service is located in the state of VA at the time of the notarization.  This applies to other electronic notaries from other states as well.   You must provide the electronic notarization within the state you are commissioned at the time of the notarization.

What are the requirements for International notarizations?

• You are required to provide 2 valid forms of governmental ID that can be validated through our secure verification system.

How are clients verified online?

• Identity verification is completed by reviewing the signer's valid government-issued ID along with completing a series of knowledge-based authentication questions.  All U.S. signers are required to provide at least 1 valid government-issued photo identification and 2 valid government-issued photo identifications for international clients or clients that do not have a social security number.

What is (KBA) Knowledge-Based Authentification?

• (KBA) Knowledge-Based Authentification is an electronic identification process that verifies the signer(s) by requiring the signer(s) to provide personal information and answer questions that are only known to them such as former addresses or aliases.

How long does a RON take?

• The length of a remote online notarization may vary depending on the platform, the number of signers, and the complexity of the document.  Typically, the entire process takes from 15 minutes for standard general documents and 30 minutes up to an hour for real estate closing transactions.

Is RON recorded?

• Yes, remote online notarizations are recorded and kept for a minimum period of 5 years according to VA state law.  The recording/notarial journal is stored securely and serves as an electronic record of the notarial act.

What if I have technical issues?

• Sometimes technical and audio issues will happen.  We will make every attempt to troubleshoot any technical issues that may arise.  Due to time restraints if we are not able to complete the notarization within the timeframe allotted the appointment will need to be rescheduled.  

What if my document is not accepted?

• It is the responsibility of the signer to ensure the document they are having notarized will be accepted by the entity the document will be submitted to.  Refunds are not issued and will not be issued due to the document not being accepted.

What is an Apostille?

• • An apostille is a certification that authenticates the origin of a public document, such as a birth certificate, marriage certificate, notarized document, or court document, to be recognized in foreign countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention.

Is an apostille the same as legalization?

• No, while both apostille and legalization serve to authenticate documents for use in foreign countries, they are different processes. Apostilles are used in countries that are parties to the Hague Apostille Convention, while legalization is used in countries that are not parties to the convention.

What documents can be apostilled?

• Generally, public documents issued by government authorities can be apostilled. This includes birth certificates, marriage certificates, death certificates, court documents, notarized documents, and certain educational documents such as diplomas and transcripts.

Why do I need an apostille?

• An apostille is often required when presenting documents in a foreign country for legal or official purposes. It certifies the authenticity of the document and ensures that it will be recognized as valid in the country where it is presented.

How long does it take to get an apostille?

• The processing time for obtaining an apostille can vary depending on the country and the workload of the issuing authority. In some cases, it may take only a few days, while in others it could take several weeks.

Do I need to get my documents translated before obtaining an apostille?

• In some cases, yes. If the document is in a language other than the official language of the country where it is being apostilled, you may need to have it translated by a certified translator before obtaining the apostille. Check the requirements of the issuing authority for specific guidance on this matter.

Does your office provide translation services?

• • Our office does offer translation services for an additional fee. Documents in different languages are accepted to be Apostilled but the notarization must be in English. 

How much does it cost to get an apostille?

• The cost of obtaining an apostille varies depending on the number of documents being apostilled, the country for the apostille, and the type of document. 

Remember to always check the specific requirements of the country where you need to use the apostilled document, as regulations and procedures may vary.

What are notary signing services?

• A notary signing service is provided by a notary public who facilitates the closing process by providing notary services for real estate transactions. I ensure that all necessary documents are properly signed, notarized, and delivered to the appropriate parties.

What types of signing services do you provide?

• • I provide mobile signings, remote online signings, and Hybrid Signings to meet the flexibility of your clients.

What is a mobile signing?

• A mobile signing is conducted when one of our top-tier notaries travels to the location of your choice to complete the signing in person.  

What is a HYBRID signing?

• A Hybrid Closing is a closing that consists of the borrower signing some of the required loan documents using pen and paper and the rest of the documents are signed electronically.

What is eRecording?

• • E-Recording is submitting your documents to the court online, electronically.  There is no need to physically take your document to the court, mail it in, or use a courier service.  All you need is the ability to scan your document in and send it to us electronically and we will take care of the rest.   We utilize Simplifile's platform to process all of our electronic filings.