FAQ — Perfect Signings

Question 1

What is a notary public?

Accepted Answer

A notary public is a state-commissioned official authorized to witness signatures, administer oaths, and certify documents. Their role is to deter fraud by verifying the identity of signers and confirming they are signing willingly.

Question 2

What's the difference between an acknowledgement and a jurat?

Accepted Answer

An acknowledgement confirms that the signer personally appeared before the notary and acknowledged signing the document. A jurat requires the signer to swear or affirm that the contents of the document are true, and the signature must be made in the notary's presence.

Question 3

What do I need to bring to my appointment?

Accepted Answer

You'll need a valid, government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID). The document must be complete — notaries cannot notarize blank or incomplete documents. Do not sign the document beforehand unless instructed.

Question 4

Can you come to my location?

Accepted Answer

Yes — that's exactly what mobile notary service is. I travel to your home, office, hospital, care facility, or any location across all nine Bay Area counties. Travel fees apply depending on distance and time.

Question 5

How quickly can you come?

Accepted Answer

Same-day appointments are often available. I also offer evening and weekend appointments to work around your schedule. Contact me as early as possible to secure your preferred time.

Question 6

What is an apostille?

Accepted Answer

An apostille is a form of authentication issued for documents that will be used in foreign countries that are part of the Hague Convention. I can assist with the notarization step required before submitting documents to the California Secretary of State for apostille processing.

Question 7

What is a loan signing appointment?

Accepted Answer

A loan signing is a notarization appointment for real estate transactions — purchases, refinances, or home equity loans. As a certified Loan Signing Agent, I work with title companies and escrow officers to ensure all documents are signed, dated, and notarized correctly.

Question 8

How much does it cost?

Accepted Answer

California state law caps the notary fee at $15 per notarized signature. Mobile travel fees vary by location and time. Loan signing fees start at $150. I always provide a clear quote before your appointment — no surprises.

Question 9

Can you notarize documents in a language other than English?

Accepted Answer

I can notarize documents in any language as long as I can communicate with the signer in a language we both understand to confirm their identity and willingness to sign. I cannot translate documents.

Question 10

What areas do you serve?

Accepted Answer

I serve all nine San Francisco Bay Area counties: Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Solano, and Sonoma.

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