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September 12, 2011

Deceptive Identities – Companies that change their names

Filed under: Popular on Twitter 2011,Signing Company Gossip — Tags: , , — admin @ 6:13 am

Companies that change their names
 
If you read the forums much, and you are advised to, you will have some idea of what is going on in the notarial world.  Signing agents are being low balled, not paid, strung along, and worse.  Some of the players or characters in this drama either change their company name, or transfer to another company, whose identity is unknown to the notaries as a group. This is very sneaky and deceptive, but the notaries are a fast group to catch on to scams and publish information on the forum.
 
Moving to a new company
From time to time, notaries will post about this phenominon.  An agent from a signing or title company of a particular name, will leave one company and start working for another company.  A notary, or more than one notary will find out, and post about it on the forum.  Believe me, if Jill at XYZ company didn’t pay you, then the fact she is working for a new outfit won’t make her pay you.  Of course Jill will give you the run around and say that it was out of her control, and that it was up to payroll or accounts payable.  How can you blame Jill for what was out of her hands?  My opinion, based on spiritual knowledge and common sense is that like and like attract.  If you are a screwball, you will be likely to work for screwballs. If you are honest, how long will you stick around with crooks once you figure out who they really are?  So, if the problem is in accounting, I think you are guilty by association.  What do you think? Additionally, how can I be sure that accounts payable calls the shots of who gets paid. In companies with ten or twenty people, it could be anyone. 
 
Changing company names
Sometimes companies will do business under one name, and then perplex everyone and pick a new name.  Nobody can figure out who they really are anymore. Notaries will tell endless stories on the forums, but there is always confusion, no matter who says what, or when.  I met someone by phone on the East coast who had a small signing outfit who wanted to change their name and enlarge their scope.  I told him to get a unique name, or keep the same name. Don’t fool around with names.  Names are how people know you and identify you.  If you pick the wrong name, you will be confused with crooks for the rest of your career and you will regret it.
 
Trading places?
Some companies have a similar name to other companies.  The only way to identify the company is by their town.  But, what happens when they move from Irvine to Simi Valley. Then, you completely lose track of who they are.  The confusion is unbearable.  You have to ask them if they “used to be” located in Irvine just to keep them straight.  With my luck, if I’m trying to figure out who a company is, I’ll see all of their various addresses, look them up on google, try to guess which years they were in which place, and then I will find out that they are out of business.
 
Similar names
How can you keep these companies straight?  I give up. It gets too confusing.
 
Notary Direct, & Notaries Direct
 
ASAP Processing, ASAP Settlement, ASAP Loan Docs, ASAP pro notary services & ASAP signing services,
 
Cal docs notary Vs. California notary and doc signers
 
California professional signing group, California signature service, California signing services
 
Central escrow & Central signing service
 
Doc Pro & Doc Pros
 
National Title & National titlenet
 
The bottom line
If a company has a confusing identity, just make sure you get their address.  The address proves who they are, unless they move around a lot.  I would be less inclined to trust a company that moved around too much.  Background check all companies on 123notary.com/S on your mobile phone and then you will know if they have a good track record.  A good history doesn’t guarantee you payment, but its ten times as safe as working for an unknown company!

Tweets:
(1) Some of the most infamous signing companies in the business changed their names. But, the notaries caught on!
(2) Some signing companies have almost an identical name to other ones. The only way to tell them apart is their address.

You might also like:

Business cards & registered business names
http://blog.123notary.com/?p=36

Business licenses & company names
http://blog.123notary.com/?p=742

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January 11, 2011

Names for Notaries to name their children

Filed under: Humorous Posts — Tags: — admin @ 11:31 am

We think of Notary work as something that we just do. But, what if we encourage our children to become Notaries? It might help if they had a Notarial sounding name to do well in the industry. Here are my ideas.

Sealmore
Venuetta
Juratella
Stampella
Enenay
Affi-David — you can name his brother Affi-Goliath
Rescinda / Rescindo
Stamper
Affirma — sounds like a health product or hair care.
Embosston — sounds more like a city.
S. Crow
S.S. — comes next to the venue.
Oatha
HUD-son
Journal — keep it simple
Signarturo
Notario — just don’t use this name in Texas without a disclaimer.
Durresto
Witnessino
Ginnie Mae
Hague
Heloc
Lockworth
Manual(a)
Non-conformito
Paula Ursula Davenport — initials would be PUD.
Respa
Rider
Ferdinand Harry Armstrong — initials would be FHA.
A. Paul Steele

Feel free to leave your comments if you have any other ideas.

.

You might also like:

Names for notary businesses with commentary
http://blog.123notary.com/?p=20765

Deceptive identities – companies that change their names
http://blog.123notary.com/?p=1090

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November 30, 2010

CW’s When ID and Docs Have Different Names

Filed under: Credible Witnesses — Tags: , , — admin @ 8:56 am

Credible Witness Discussions on the Forum

Here are some excerpts for discussions about credible witnesses on our forum. Please remember that many states require the signature of a credible witness in your journal and that roughly 90% of states allow credible witnesses to identify a signer. Its a great idea to also record the identification information on credible witnesses as well as getting a phone number recorded just in case. Don’t forget to administer your oath to the credible witnesses asking them to swear that the person in front of them is Jimmy Doe! These commentaries are taken from a forum post. Please feel free to scroll to the bottom and click on the link to see the original post.

Use of CW’s when ID and Document have different names

Larry Said:
It has been suggested that credible witnesses would be an appropriate method to establish the idenity of a signer when the docs had the name printed as James Doe, and they had to be signed that way, and the drivers license the borrower presented had the name Jimmy Doe. My take on this is that credible witnesses could NOT be used but that reasonable reliance on the drivers license photo, description and signature match would allow me to notarize the signature as James Doe. Am I wrong here? I’m in California.

Deborah Bond Said:
 I have had this exact situation previously. I was lucky. Docs as James, ID as JIMMY. I asked for additional id and was handed Passport, Social and birth certificate and was shocked to find Passport said Jimmy, Social James and Birth James…Hence I had plenty of info stating Jimmy was James.

I did not get copies of all this but called my contact LO and advised of name issue and that LEGALLY his name was JAMES but 1/2 ID said Jimmy and they wanted copy of the DL…which had the wrong name. Per the LO his ID Affidavit showed both names when we were done and on the copy of the drivers lic we had him state that is is known as Jimmy and had him sign as James…

Now if he had not the additional id’s I would have had to adjourn because in Massachusetts CW are not a viable option. CW needs to be known to both the NOTARY (highly unlikely) and the person being id’d. The chance of that is slim. I liken it to asking my neighbor Bob (who I know) to ID another neighbor Chris who I know but has no ID. Chance is unlikely that would EVER happen.

Joe Ewing Said:
You are correct Larry but Jimmy goes on the Acknowledgment. The AKA statement that the signer signs under oath would have him signing as Jimmy and James. Credible witnesses when told that they must swear under penalty of purgery (a felony) punishable by 2-4 years in prison that their neighbor goes by a nickname will generally refuse to cooperate and rightly so.

I have used credible identifying witnesses on many occasions. When the signer has an expired ID or no ID at all a credible witness is necessary to establish the current identity of the signer without satisfactory ID.

* Missuse of credible witnesses by Notary Signing Agents

The credible witness codes were NOT created to determine the correct spelling, the presence of a middle name, whether the signer is a junior or a nick name is the real name. When a signer has a current acceptable ID that shows a slightly different spelling of the signers name that is printed on a set of loan docs, it is not appropriate to call two neighbors into a notarization to swear (a felony) not to someones identity but that the signer is actually a junior or that Joe is actually Joseph. That act by the notary in itself is inapproriate.

You (NOTARY) are looking at a picture, a description and a signature. It is the Notarys duty to make a resonable determination as to the identity of the signer based on that current satisfactory ID presented to him. If the notary is unable to do that then the notary should resign his commission. 

Shannon Said:
Joe, I’m concerned that you seem to be indicating that there is somehow some discretion by the notary on whether to notarize. I prefer to rely on what is more black or white. The ID is going to be what the ID is….I would never feel comfortable with a name that is even partially different. Although I can’t quote exact statute, I seem to recall that credible witnesses are not to be used for “convenience of the signer” for example: If the signer left his ID across town…..       Any thoughts on this?

.

You might also like:

Credible witnesses – the ins and the outs
http://blog.123notary.com/?p=19634

Credible witnesses – the process explained
http://blog.123notary.com/?p=16695

Notary Public 101 – a comprehensive course about Notary work.
http://blog.123notary.com/?p=19493

Identification for being Notarized
http://blog.123notary.com/?p=19507

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March 21, 2025

Local SEO for Notaries: How to Rank Higher Online

Filed under: (6) Marketing — Tags: — Tom Wilkins @ 12:00 am

Today, homeowners and business owners search online for notary services more than ever. You’re missing potential clients if your business isn’t visible on search engines like Google. That’s where local SEO tips for notaries come in. By optimizing your online presence, you can rank higher in local searches and attract more clients. Here’s how to do it.

1. Optimize Your Google Business Profile (GBP)

Your Google Business Profile (GBP) is crucial for appearing in Google Search and Google Maps. A well-optimized profile can drive more traffic to your business.

How to Optimize Your GBP:

  • Claim and verify your profile at Google Business Profile.

  • Update business details (name, address, phone, website, and hours).

  • Choose relevant categories, like “Notary Public” and “Mobile Notary.”

  • Upload high-quality images of your workspace or mobile setup.

  • Encourage client reviews and respond professionally to all feedback.

2. Use Local Keywords on Your Website

To rank higher in searches, include local keywords throughout your website.

Where to Use Keywords:

  • Homepage – Mention your city and notary services.

  • Service pages – Create pages for services like loan signings or mobile notarization.

  • Meta titles and descriptions – Include city names and services in these sections.

  • Blog posts – Write helpful content, like “How to Find a Mobile Notary Near You,” with local SEO tips for notaries.

3. Get Listed in Online Directories

Being listed in local directories increases credibility and visibility. Ensure your name, address, and phone number (NAP) match across platforms.

Key Directories for Notaries:

  • Yelp

  • Yellow Pages

  • Notary Rotary

  • 123Notary

  • Chamber of Commerce websites

4. Earn More Positive Reviews

Google ranks businesses higher when they have consistent positive reviews.

How to Get Reviews:

  • Ask satisfied clients to leave a review.

  • Provide a direct Google review link via text or email.

  • Respond to reviews professionally, thanking clients for feedback.

5. Ensure Your Website is Mobile-Friendly

Since most searches happen on mobile devices, a slow or unresponsive site can drive clients away.

Mobile Optimization Tips:

  • Use a mobile-friendly website design.

  • Improve page speed for quick loading.

  • Make contact details clickable (e.g., tap-to-call phone number).

6. Create Local Content & Blog Regularly

Writing local-focused blog content improves rankings and positions you as an industry expert.

Topic Ideas for Notary Blogs:

  • “How to Notarize Documents for a Home Purchase”

  • “Understanding Notary Document Dates and Their Importance”

  • “Common Notary Mistakes to Avoid”

7. Build Local Backlinks

Getting backlinks (links from other websites to yours) helps boost search rankings.

How to Earn Local Backlinks:

  • Partner with local real estate agents, law firms, and banks.

  • Get listed on community and industry blogs.

  • Offer guest blog posts to local business websites.

8. Leverage Social Media

Using social media can increase brand awareness and drive website traffic.

Social Media Strategies:

  • Post regularly about your notary services.

  • Share client testimonials and success stories.

  • Engage with local businesses and community groups.

Boost Your Notary Business with Local SEO

Following these local SEO tips for notaries can improve your online visibility and attract more clients. Focus on optimizing your Google Business Profile, using local keywords, gathering favorable reviews, and building a strong online presence.

Want to learn more about notary document dates? Click here to understand their importance in notarized documents.

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January 10, 2025

Top Reasons a Notarized Document May Be Rejected

Filed under: Notary Mistakes — Tags: — Tom Wilkins @ 10:37 pm

Notarized documents play a crucial role in the fast-paced world of real estate transactions, legal agreements, and business operations. However, even a seemingly well-prepared notarized document can sometimes get rejected, causing delays and frustrations. Understanding why notarized documents get rejected is essential for homeowners and business owners who rely on these documents for critical transactions. Below, we’ll explore the top reasons for rejection and how to avoid them.

1. Missing or Incomplete Information

1.1 Blank Fields

Leaving blank fields in a document is a common reason for rejection. Notaries are required to ensure that the document is complete before notarization. Blank spaces can raise concerns about potential fraud or unauthorized alterations.

1.2 Incorrect Names or Details

The names on the document must match the names on the signer’s identification. Even a minor typo, such as a misspelled name, can lead to rejection.

2. Invalid Identification

A notary must verify the signer’s identity using government-issued photo identification. The notarization may be deemed invalid if the ID presented is expired, damaged, or does not meet state requirements.

3. Absence of Notary Seal or Signature

The notary seal and signature are fundamental to a notarized document. Missing either of these elements can result in immediate rejection. In some states, an embosser or stamp is required in addition to the seal, so it’s important to ensure all local requirements are met.

4. Incorrect Notary Certificate

4.1 Wrong Type of Certificate

Depending on the type of document being notarized, the notary must use the correct notarial certificate, such as an acknowledgment or jurat. Using the wrong certificate can invalidate the notarization.

4.2 Errors in the Certificate

Mistakes in the notarial wording, such as incorrect dates or locations, can also lead to rejection. This is particularly important for documents used out of state or internationally, where specific language may be required.

5. Signature or Date Issues

5.1 Unsigned Document

Unless state law specifies otherwise, a notarized document must be signed in the notary’s presence. A document signed beforehand is likely to be rejected.

5.2 Backdated or Postdated Signatures

Notaries cannot backdate or postdate a document. Doing so can void the notarization and lead to legal penalties.

6. Non-Adherence to State Laws

Each state has unique notary laws. If a notary fails to follow the specific regulations of their state—for instance, requiring witnesses in addition to the notary—the document may not be accepted.

7. Lack of Proper Witnesses

Certain documents, like deeds or wills, may require witnesses and notarization. If these witnesses are absent or fail to sign, the document can be rejected.

8. Fraud or Coercion Concerns

Notaries ensure that the signer is signing willingly and not under duress. If there are signs of coercion or fraud, the notary may refuse to proceed, and the document will not be valid.

How to Avoid Rejection

Understanding why notarized documents get rejected can save you time, money, and frustration. To minimize errors:

  • Double-check all information for accuracy.

  • Ensure all required fields are filled.

  • Present valid and acceptable identification.

  • Work with an experienced notary who understands state-specific requirements.

You can check how to properly notarize a document for a step-by-step guide on ensuring your documents meet all necessary criteria.

Save Time and Avoid Frustration

Whether you’re a homeowner closing on a property or a business owner finalizing a contract, a rejected, notarized document can disrupt your plans. By addressing these common issues upfront, you can avoid delays and ensure your documents meet all necessary legal standards. You can complete your transactions smoothly and confidently with proper preparation and the right notary.

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January 6, 2025

How to Handle Notarizations for International Documents

Filed under: Uncategorized — Tags: — Tom Wilkins @ 5:17 pm

In an increasingly globalized world, handling international documents is a common need for homeowners and business owners. Whether you’re facilitating property transactions overseas or supporting international business operations, notarizing international documents requires attention to detail and adherence to specific protocols. With the proper notarization of international documents tips, you can streamline the process and ensure compliance with legal requirements.

Understanding the Basics of Notarizing International Documents

International notarizations differ from domestic ones due to the involvement of foreign laws and regulations. To navigate this complex area effectively, it’s crucial to understand the key components of the process:

What Makes International Notarizations Different?

Unlike domestic documents, international documents often require additional authentication steps, such as an apostille or legalization, to ensure they will be accepted in a foreign country.

Common Types of International Documents

Documents like powers of attorney, affidavits, business contracts, and real estate agreements often require notarization for international use. Understanding the document’s purpose can guide the notarization process.

Step-by-Step Guide to Handling International Notarizations

1. Verify the Client’s Identity

Proper identification is the cornerstone of any notarization. Ensure the client presents valid, government-issued identification that is compliant with your jurisdiction’s laws. For international documents, double-check that the ID matches the names listed in the document.

2. Confirm the Document’s Purpose and Destination

Ask your client about the document’s purpose and the country where it will be used. This information determines whether additional steps, like obtaining an apostille or consular legalization, are necessary.

3. Familiarize Yourself with Apostilles and Legalization

Some countries are members of the Hague Apostille Convention, simplifying document authentication. Consular legalization may be required if the destination country is not a member. As a notary, you must notarize the document correctly so your client can complete these additional steps.

4. Ensure Proper Document Format

International documents often have specific formatting or language requirements. Advise your clients to confirm with the receiving party that the document meets all necessary criteria. In some cases, a certified translation may be required.

5. Use Proper Notarial Certificates

Make sure the notarial certificate complies with your state’s laws. Check if the receiving country requires additional information or specific language in the certificate for international documents.

6. Record the Transaction in Your Notary Journal

Documenting notarizations in your journal is a best practice, especially for international documents. Record details like the client’s ID, the document type, and the purpose of maintaining a thorough record in case of future inquiries.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Language Barriers

If the document is in a foreign language, ensure you can still perform your duties without compromising your responsibilities as a notary. If needed, use a certified translator.

Incomplete or Incorrect Documents

International documents may sometimes arrive incomplete or incorrectly formatted. Encourage your clients to consult legal or consular experts to address such issues before notarization.

Complex Legal Requirements

Foreign countries may impose additional requirements that are outside a notary’s scope. After notarization, guide your clients toward appropriate legal resources to fulfill these requirements.

Simplify International Notarizations with Expert Guidance

Notarizing international documents can be complex, but the process becomes manageable with proper preparation and attention to detail. By following these notarizing international documents tips, homeowners and business owners can ensure their international transactions proceed smoothly.

For additional insights on handling multi-step notarizations, check out our guide on how to notarize a multi-page document. Understanding and addressing the nuances of international notarizations will help you deliver reliable, professional services.

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October 25, 2024

Notary Verbiage and Wording Tips

Filed under: Notary Public 101 — Tags: — Tom Wilkins @ 12:00 am

Have you ever wondered if the wording in your notarized documents could lead to costly mistakes? Homeowners and business owners must have clear and precise notary vocabulary to ensure their legal documents are correctly prepared and executed. Whether you’re managing real estate transactions, business agreements, or loan documents, using the correct language helps prevent errors, delays, and legal disputes. This guide will explore critical notary verbiage and wording tips for clear documentation to streamline your process and protect your interests.

The Importance of Clear Notary Verbiage

Clear and correct notary verbiage ensures your documents are legally binding and properly executed. Correct wording can significantly affect real estate transactions, business contracts, or loan agreements. Follow these tips to keep your documents in order and avoid complications.

Tip 1: Keep the Language Simple and Clear

One of the most essential notary verbiage and wording tips for clear documentation is to use simple, understandable language. Avoid unnecessary legal jargon that could confuse the signer and lead to errors. This helps ensure that all parties understand the document and the responsibilities involved.

  1. Avoid terms like “heretofore” or “hereinafter.”
  2. Use simple alternatives like “from this point” or “from now on.”

Tip 2: Be Specific in Names, Dates, and Phrases

Precision is crucial in notarized documents. Vague or unclear wording can cause confusion or disputes. All parties must understand the terms and conditions outlined in the document. Be as specific as possible when referring to individuals or dates.

  1. Use full legal names instead of nicknames or initials
  2. Use specific dates like “on July 15, 2024, at 10:00 AM” rather than “around this date.”
  3. Avoid phrases like “as soon as possible” or “at your earliest convenience.”

Tip 3: Review Notary Certificate Wording

The wording on notary certificates must comply with state regulations, which can vary based on the type of notarization. Double-check that your certificate includes the correct legal language for your state. If uncertain, consult your state’s notary handbook or seek legal advice to ensure compliance.

  1. For acknowledgments, ensure phrases like “personally appeared before me” are included
  2. For jurats, confirm the certificate states that the signer swore or affirmed the document in front of the notary

Tip 4: Include All Necessary Information

It’s important to ensure all essential information is on your notarized document. Failing to include the required details can result in rejection or delay. Ensure that each document requiring notarization has the correct information to avoid confusion or legal issues.

  1. Full names of all signers
  2. Notary commission number
  3. Date of notarization
  4. A complete signature block for each signer with consistent wording, such as “signed and sworn to before me on [date].”

Tip 5: Maintain Professional Language

Always use formal, professional language in your notary verbiage. Casual wording can undermine the seriousness of legal documents. Keep the tone appropriate for the legal setting. This will help maintain the integrity and importance of the document.

  1. Instead of saying “showed up,” use “personally appeared.”
  2. Avoid conversational phrases; use formal terms like “executed before me” or “acknowledged before me.”

Tip 6: Know Your State’s Notary Regulations

Since notary laws differ between states, staying updated on local regulations is essential. Some states require specific wording for particular types of documents, especially in real estate transactions. Homeowners and business owners can benefit from consulting legal experts or a trusted notary to ensure their documents meet legal standards.

  1. Review your state’s notary laws regularly to ensure compliance
  2. Use the latest required verbiage to avoid the document being invalidated

Accurate Verbiage Matters

Precise and clear notary verbiage ensures your documents are correctly executed and legally binding. By following these notary verbiage and wording tips for clear documentation, you can avoid common mistakes and ensure your documents meet all legal requirements. Staying specific, using simple language, and adhering to state regulations will help you confidently create notarized documents.

For additional tips, check out our blog on mobile notary safety tips for beginners to further enhance your notary knowledge.

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October 11, 2024

How to Use Local SEO to Boost Your Mobile Notary Business

Filed under: (6) Marketing — Tags: — Tom Wilkins @ 12:00 am

In today’s digital world, visibility, including mobile notary services, is essential for any business. Homeowners and business owners often turn to online searches when they need a notary. To stand out, it’s vital to use local SEO to boost your mobile notary business visibility online. This article provides actionable steps to improve your search ranking and attract more clients.

What Is Local SEO?

Local SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is optimizing your business to rank higher in local searches. For a mobile notary, this means appearing in search results when potential clients in your area seek notary services. Using local SEO can drive more targeted traffic and increase your hiring chances.

Why Is Local SEO Important for Mobile Notary Businesses?

Many people, especially homeowners and business owners, prefer local notary services for convenience. When you rank higher in local searches, you’re more likely to be seen and contacted by potential clients in your area, giving your mobile notary business an edge.

Let’s explore a few practical ways to improve your local SEO and get noticed by local clients.

1. Optimize Your Google Business Profile

Your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is crucial for local SEO. It helps your business appear in Google’s Local Pack, Maps, and search results.

  1. Claim and Verify: Ensure your profile is claimed and verified. This lets you control essential details like contact information, services, and operating hours.
  2. Accurate Information: Keep your profile current, including your service area and availability.
  3. Reviews Matter: Encourage your clients to leave reviews. Responding to reviews shows professionalism and can improve your ranking.

2. Use Location-Specific Keywords

To use local SEO to boost your mobile notary business visibility online, integrate location-specific keywords throughout your website. This helps search engines understand where you operate and ensures your business appears in local searches.

  1. Mention Local Areas: Include the names of cities, neighborhoods, or regions where you offer services. For example, “Mobile notary services in Los Angeles.”
  2. Strategic Placement: Use these keywords naturally in your meta descriptions, headers, and blog posts.

3. Build Local Citations

Local citations mention your business’s name, address, and phone number (NAP) on other websites, such as directories and social media platforms.

  1. List on Directories: Ensure your business is listed on relevant local directories like Yelp and 123Notary. This builds credibility and makes it easier for clients to find you.
  2. Consistency: Ensure your NAP information is consistent across all listings to avoid confusing search engines.

4. Create Local-Focused Content

Creating content that focuses on your service area is a powerful way to use local SEO to boost online mobile notary business visibility. It positions you as an expert in your area and helps attract local clients.

  1. Location-Specific Blog Posts: Write about local notary topics or everyday needs in your area, such as “Top Reasons to Hire a Mobile Notary in New York City.”
  2. Service Pages: Create dedicated service pages with relevant keywords for the cities or regions you serve.

5. Use Social Media for Local Engagement

Social media platforms like Facebook can help you engage with your local community and increase visibility.

  1. Join Local Groups: Engage in local online notary networking groups to connect with potential clients and other professionals.
  2. Share Local Content: Post regularly and use local hashtags to reach a wider audience.

Take Action Now

Using local SEO to boost your mobile notary business’s online visibility is essential for attracting homeowners and business owners. Optimizing your Google Business Profile, using location-specific keywords, building local citations, creating local content, and leveraging social media can significantly increase your online presence.

For more insights, consider joining online notary networking groups to stay updated on the latest trends and expand your professional network.

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May 10, 2024

7 Essential Practices to Safeguard Notary Stamps and Journals

Filed under: Best Practices — Tags: , — Tom Wilkins @ 12:00 am

As a mobile notary, safeguarding your notary stamps and journals is crucial to protecting your professional integrity and clients’ sensitive information. Here are some expanded practices and recommendations to ensure the security of your notarial tools:

  1. Secure Storage: Always store your notary stamps and journals securely. This could be a locked drawer or cabinet when not in use. Such measures are vital to prevent unauthorized access and potential misuse of your notarial tools, especially in shared work environments or when you’re moving.
  2. Controlled Access: Maintaining exclusive control over your notary journal is crucial to ensure the integrity of recorded notarial acts, which include details like the names of parties involved, document types, and the signature date. This information must remain confidential and protected from unauthorized access to safeguard your clients’ sensitive information.
  3. Proper Disposal of Retired Tools: When a notary seal expires, or a journal is filled, it’s important to dispose of these items responsibly to prevent them from falling into the wrong hands. For expired notary seals, consider methods such as cutting, shredding, or burning the rubber part of the stamp. For journals, follow state-specific guidelines, including transferring them to a designated official or keeping them under lock for a certain period before destruction.
  4. Loss or Theft: If your notary stamp or journal is lost or stolen, report the incident immediately to the relevant state authorities and law enforcement. This can help mitigate the risk of fraudulent use of your notary tools and protect you from potential legal liabilities. You may also need to inform your bonding company and any insurance providers to see if additional steps are required under your policies.
  5. Use of Electronic Journals: Consider using electronic journals that offer enhanced security features such as encryption and password protection. E-journals can be backed up securely and accessed remotely, providing a modern solution to maintaining and safeguarding notary records in the digital age.
  6. Regular Audits and Updates: Periodically audit and update your security practices as necessary. This includes checking the physical and digital security of where your stamps and journals are stored. Regular updates to digital security measures, like changing passwords and updating encryption, can prevent unauthorized access.
  7. Training and Awareness: Attend workshops, webinars, and other training sessions to stay informed about the best practices for safeguarding notary stamps and journals. Also, be aware of new laws or changes in existing laws regarding notary practice in your state. Education is a crucial defense against fraud and theft.

Securing Your Professional Tools

Safeguarding your notary stamps and journals is crucial for maintaining the integrity and trust of your mobile notary service. By implementing these key practices, you protect your professional tools against theft, loss, and unauthorized access. This proactive approach secures your tools and reinforces your credibility and reliability as a notary. Keep assessing and updating your security strategies to protect your notarial practice.

For more detailed guidance on specific state requirements and additional tips on securing your notary tools, always refer to your state’s notary laws or consult a professional legal advisor.

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January 16, 2022

Quiz: You know you’re a good Notary when you…

Filed under: Best Humorous Posts,Humorous Posts,Popular on Linked In,Popular Overall — Tags: , , , , — admin @ 9:54 am

What type of Notary are you? A good one or a bad one? I’m not sure who created the questions for, “You know you’re a redneck if you…”
So, I’ll create my own version of this satirical banter, and come up with my own version for Notaries that will have some technical merit.

You know you’re a bad Notary when you…

(1) Do you fail to call the borrower to confirm the appointment that signing company set, and just show up?
If you don’t call and make sure that all parties involved (watch out for spousal signatures) will be there and on time, with a current ID with matching names — you might be in for some wasted time. If you don’t get the documents signed, you might not get paid. You might waste two hours for nothing because you don’t think you “need” to call the borrowers, or because you were asked not to. It is your appointment and your responsibility!

(2) Do you send loose certificates in the mail?
Lenders and Title companies are notorious for asking notaries to break the law and send loose certiifcates. In some states it is a Misdemeanor if you ask a Notary to do something illegal. Report all illegal requests to your State Notary Division immediately. No second chances!

(3) Do you fail to get certified by all agencies that you purchase “effective” advertising from? Or do you say, I don’t “need” your certification because I’m already “certified” without even disclosing the name of the organization who certified you? There is no such thing as just being “certified” as notary certification is not regulated by any government.

(4) Do you say, “I have my Notary” when you really mean you have your Notary Commission?

(5) Do you fail to use a Notary Journal or Seal simply because your state doesn’t require it? What happens if an investigator asks about a potentially fraudulent transaction you were involved in and you have no evidence for the court? The court case might be really long and you might get in really big trouble.

(6) Do you fail to keep thumbprints of signers in your journal because your state doesn’t require it?
Guess what? You might end up in court if you don’t take thumbprints, especially on transactions affecting high dollar figures such as properties.

(7) Do you fail to administer Oaths to credible witnesses or for Jurats because you are not well enough trained to know how, or even to know that you are required? Or, perhaps you don’t even know what a credible witness even is. Better look this up in your state Notary handbook.

You know you’re a good Notary when…

(1) The hair on your neck stand up straight when you see someone try to sign with a middle initial that doesn’t exist on their identification.

(2) You use an inked seal and an embosser with a raised non-inked seal to make it detectable if pages are swapped or photocopied.

(3) You take copious notes in your journal about the signers, what went on in the signing, and the building / neighborhood where the signing took place to job your memory should you ever be summoned into court.

(4) You sell your car, and buy a few top spots on 123notary.com!

There are many other technical points and best practices that we could address, but for this hopefully entertaining blog entry — that’s all folks!

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