To ensure a smooth and efficient signing experience, please review the following checklist and guidelines before your appointment. Being prepared helps avoid delays and ensures your documents are notarized correctly and quickly.

​

1. Have All Documents Ready

• Review documents in advance: Make sure you’ve read and understand your documents before the appointment. If you have legal questions, please consult the issuing agency or your attorney.

• Notaries are not attorneys and cannot draft or give legal advice.

• Do not sign ahead of time: Please wait to sign any documents until you are in the presence of the notary. This is required by Washington State law for most notarizations.

​

2. Check for a Notarial Certificate

• Every document to be notarized must include a notarial certificate — this is the section where the notary signs and stamps.

• Common types of notarial certificates include:​

  • Jurats (Oath or Affirmation)

  • Copy Certification

  • Acknowledgment

• Notaries are not allowed to choose the certificate for you.

• If you're unsure which certificate is needed, please check with the document's issuer or an attorney prior to the appointment.

​

3. Bring Valid, Government-Issued Photo ID

• Your ID must be:

  • Unexpired

  • Government-issued

  • Include a photo, signature, and physical description (e.g. driver’s license, state ID, U.S. passport)

• The name on your ID should match the name on your documents. Minor differences (e.g., with or without a middle initial) are usually acceptable, but significant mismatches may require updated documentation.

​

4. Ensure All Signers Are Present

• If multiple parties need to sign, all signers must be present during the appointment and bring valid ID.

• Remote or staggered signings are not allowed unless prior arrangements have been made and permitted by law.

​

5. Be Aware of Witness Requirements

• Some documents may require additional witnesses.

• Please confirm in advance if your document requires witnesses, and whether the notary can act as one (some states allow this, others don’t).

• If your witnesses must be provided by you, ensure they are present and have valid ID.

​

6. Know the Fees

• Fees vary depending on the type of notarization and travel distance.

• Payment methods accepted: bank transfer, credit card, or Zelle.

​

7. Choose a Suitable Signing Location

• The signing area should be:

  • Quiet and well-lit

  • Have a clean surface to work on

  • Free from distractions or interruptions

• For mobile signings at your home, workplace, hospital, or other locations, please ensure access and parking are available.

​

8. Mental Capacity and Willingness

• All signers must be mentally aware and willing to sign. Notaries cannot proceed if someone appears confused, intoxicated, or under duress.

• If the document is a power of attorney, trust, or other legal document, this is especially important.

​

Questions or Special Requests?

If you have unique circumstances (e.g., hospital signings, non-English speakers, document questions), feel free to contact me in advance at contact@albnotary.com. I’ll be happy to assist and make accommodations where possible.