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March 21, 2017

When to refuse a notarization: a comprehensive guide

Most clients you have will have legal requests, but from time to time, there will be someone who wants you to bend the law, or someone who doesn’t understand proper protocol. Here is how to handle the difficult requests.

Situations where a signer is not appropriate to notarize
(1) If you cannot prove the signer’s identity with satisfactory evidence. Some states allow personal knowledge of the signer, so please study your state rules. Satisfactory evidence normally involves current, or near current driver’s licenses, passports, or other government issued ID. Each state has different variations on what is acceptable, so know your state rules!

(2) If the signer doesn’t appear before you.
This means that they should be a few feet from you and fully visible.

(3) If you cannot communicate directly with the signer.
This means that the signer needs to speak the same language that you speak. If you speak the signer’s language as a second language, but don’t know it well enough to understand all of the communication necessary to give instructions and answer questions regarding the notarization, then you should decline.

(4) If the signer refuses to swear under Oath if an Oath is required as part of the notarization.

(5) If the signer is being coerced to sign or pressured to sign.

(6) If the signer is drugged (perhaps in a nursing home or hospital,) confused, or disoriented. If they can’t answer basic questions about the document, they are not in a clear enough mental state to sign.

(7) If the journal entry requires a thumbprint by law and the signer refuses to furnish you with one.

(8) If the signer refuses to pay the Notary fee

(9) If the signer is so incapacitated that they cannot sign their own signature.

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Situations where the document is not satisfactory

(1) If there are blanks, or omitted pages in the document.

(2) The document lacks a notary certificate and the signer refuses to tell you which type of notary act they need done.

(3) The document is a vital record, or a type of document that may not be notarized or be copy certified.

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Situations where the Notary cannot notarize due to conflict of interest

(1) If the signer is your parent, spouse, child, or other close family member. It might be okay to notarize for cousins and more distant relatives although it is generally better to avoid notarizing anything important for a family member due to conflict of interest.

(2) If you are named as a beneficiary in a document or have any type of financial interest in the document being signed.

(3) If you are the signer of the document, you may not notarize your own signature (contradictory to popular belief.)

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I created this blog because of a discussion I had with a Notary who went to another Notary at a UPS store to get notarized. The Notary refuseed to notarize because the signer (also a Notary) refused to be thumbprinted. I had to look this up. California state law did not discuss the issue, but did say it was illegal for a Notary to refuse service. I researched what NNA had to say about this issue and they concured with California in an article about when to say no. In any case, I hope this article was helpful.

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February 14, 2025

Avoiding Mistakes When Notarizing Complex Documents

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

Notarizing complex documents requires accuracy, legal compliance, and attention to detail. Mistakes in notarization can lead to invalid contracts, disputes, and financial losses for homeowners and business owners. Whether handling real estate transactions, business agreements, or estate planning documents, understanding the common mistakes in notarizing complex documents helps ensure a smooth, error-free process.

1. Understanding the Document Before Notarization

Review the Entire Document

One major mistake notaries make is notarizing incomplete or ambiguous documents. Before proceeding, always check for missing pages, blank spaces, or inconsistencies. Ask the signer to correct anything or seek legal guidance before notarization if anything seems unclear.

Verify the Notarial Certificate

Ensure the notarial certificate follows state requirements. Using incorrect wording or missing essential details can cause legal issues. If a document lacks a notarial certificate, the signer—not the notary—must decide whether to use an acknowledgment or a jurat.

2. Properly Identifying the Signer

Examine Identification Carefully

Identity verification errors are among the most common mistakes in notarizing complex documents. Always check that the signer’s government-issued ID is valid, matches the document’s name, and is free from alterations.

Address Name Discrepancies

If the name on the ID does not exactly match the document, additional proof of identity may be needed. Some states allow the use of credible witnesses, but this must be handled according to legal requirements.

3. Confirming the Signer’s Willingness and Awareness

Ensure the Signer Is Acting Voluntarily

A notary must confirm that the signer is not under duress. If you suspect coercion, refuse notarization. Legal agreements must be signed willingly to be enforceable.

Assess Mental Competency

If a signer appears disoriented, confused, or unable to understand the document, do not proceed. In such cases, an attorney or family member may need to be involved to determine the next steps.

4. Using the Correct Notarial Act

Distinguish Between an Acknowledgment and a Jurat

A standard error is selecting the wrong notarial act. An acknowledgment confirms identity and willingness to sign, while a jurat requires an oath or affirmation regarding the document’s truthfulness. The signer must choose the correct notarial act—not the notary.

Know When to Refuse Notarization

If the document is incomplete, the signer is hesitant, or identification is insufficient, it is better to refuse notarization than risk an invalid or fraudulent transaction.

5. Keeping an Accurate Notary Journal

Document Every Notarization Properly

An incomplete notary journal can lead to disputes. Each entry should include the date, document type, signer’s name, form of identification used, and other necessary details.

Ensure Clear and Legible Entries

Errors in recordkeeping can create legal complications. Always write clearly and correct mistakes correctly while maintaining transparency.

6. Avoiding Unauthorized Practice of Law

Do Not Provide Legal Advice

Notaries must never explain or interpret legal documents unless they are also licensed attorneys. Legal guidance can be considered an unauthorized practice of law and may result in penalties.

Refer Signers to an Attorney When Needed

If a signer is unsure about the document’s content, seek legal counsel. You must verify identity and witness signatures, not advise on the document’s legal implications.

Notarization Done Right

Avoiding errors in complex notarizations protects signers from legal disputes and ensures compliance with state laws. By thoroughly reviewing documents, verifying identities, selecting the correct notarial act, and maintaining accurate records, you can prevent common mistakes in notarizing complex documents and maintain professionalism in your practice. For more guidance on best practices, explore the notary certification process to strengthen your expertise and avoid common pitfalls.

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February 7, 2025

Special Considerations for Real Estate Notarizations

Filed under: Comprehensive Guides — Tags: — Tom Wilkins @ 12:00 am

Real estate transactions involve legally binding agreements and high-value assets, making proper notarization essential. Homeowners and business owners must know specific requirements to prevent delays, disputes, or invalid transactions. However, real estate notarization challenges can arise due to identity verification issues, document complexity, and state-specific regulations. Understanding these special considerations will help ensure a smooth and legally compliant process.

1. Verifying Signer Identity Accurately

One of the most critical aspects of real estate notarization is confirming the identity of all signers.

Acceptable Identification Forms

Notaries must verify signers using government-issued photo IDs, such as:

  • Driver’s licenses

  • Passports

  • Military IDs

  • State-issued identification cards

In cases where a signer lacks proper identification, credible witnesses may be required to confirm their identity.

Common Challenges

  • Expired or Damaged IDs: Most states do not allow expired IDs.

  • Name Discrepancies: The name on the document must match the ID exactly to avoid issues.

  • Out-of-State Signers: If a signer is from a different state, the notary must ensure their ID meets state requirements.

2. Ensuring Document Completeness

A notary’s role is not to provide legal advice but to confirm that all documents are correctly executed.

Real Estate Documents That Require Notarization

  • Deeds (Grant, Quitclaim, Warranty Deeds) – Transfer ownership between parties.

  • Mortgage Agreements and Loan Documents – Secure financing for property purchases.

  • Power of Attorney Forms – Authorize someone to act on behalf of the property owner.

Avoiding Common Errors

  • Ensure there are no blank spaces that could be fraudulently filled in later.

  • Verify that all necessary pages are present before notarizing.

  • Confirm that signers know what they are signing to avoid potential fraud claims.

3. Witness Requirements in Real Estate Notarization

Some states require additional witnesses for real estate transactions.

State-Specific Witness Rules

  • Many states require two witnesses for mortgage-related documents.

  • Witnesses must be disinterested parties, meaning they cannot be involved in the transaction.

Failing to provide the necessary witnesses can result in the document’s rejection, delaying the transaction.

4. Handling Remote and Mobile Notarizations

With real estate transactions becoming more digital, remote and mobile notarizations are increasingly common.

Remote Online Notarization (RON)

  • Allows signers to appear before a notary via a secure online platform.

  • Requires state approval and compliance with electronic notarization laws.

  • Not all states permit RON for real estate transactions, so legal verification is essential.

Mobile Notary Services

  • A mobile notary travels to the client’s location, making signings at homes, offices, or hospitals convenient.

  • Scheduling in advance ensures availability, especially for time-sensitive closings.

5. Addressing Signer Capacity and Voluntariness

Signers must be mentally competent and willing participants in the transaction.

Recognizing Signs of Duress

Notaries should be alert for indications that a signer is being pressured, including:

  • Hesitation or nervousness when signing.

  • A third party is attempting to control the process.

  • Signers appear confused or unaware of the document’s content.

If coercion is suspected, the notary must refuse to proceed.

Ensuring Mental Competence

  • Elderly or disabled signers should be able to express an understanding of the transaction.

  • If there are concerns about cognitive ability, consultation with legal or medical professionals may be necessary.

6. Overcoming Real Estate Notarization Challenges in Multi-State Transactions

Real estate deals that involve different states present unique challenges.

Notary Commission Limitations

  • A notary’s commission is valid only within their state.

  • Some states allow reciprocity agreements, permitting out-of-state notarization under specific conditions.

State-Specific Notarial Wording

  • Certain states require unique acknowledgment or jurat wording that differs from standard notarial certificates.

  • Using incorrect verbiage may result in the document’s rejection, causing delays.

Navigating Real Estate Notarization Successfully

Understanding these special considerations helps homeowners and business owners overcome real estate notarization challenges and ensure smooth transactions. Proper identification, document verification, compliance with state laws, and awareness of potential fraud risks are essential for successful real estate notarization.

For those interested in the notary profession, check out how to become a certified notary to learn about qualifications and state-specific requirements.

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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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November 1, 2024

Understanding Notary Misconduct and Penalties

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

Knowing that a notary is bound by strict professional standards is essential when working with them. A notary’s role ensures the legality of important documents, but even minor misconduct can lead to severe penalties. For homeowners and business owners, understanding notary misconduct and penalties for legal non-compliance is key to protecting themselves and their transactions.

What is Notary Misconduct?

Notary misconduct occurs when a notary public violates the laws or ethical standards governing their role. This can happen unintentionally, through negligence, or intentionally, through fraud. Misconduct affects the legitimacy of the notarized documents. It can lead to significant legal and financial problems for the involved parties.

Common Types of Notary Misconduct

1. Failure to Verify Signer’s Identity

One of the most important duties of a notary is to confirm the signer’s identity. Misconduct occurs if a notary skips this step, risking fraud and invalidating the notarization.

2. Conflict of Interest

Notaries must remain impartial. When a notary has a personal or financial interest in a document, their neutrality is compromised, which can lead to disputes or potential penalties.

3. Inadequate Record-Keeping

Most states require notaries to keep a record, or journal, of each notarization. Failure to do so may result in misconduct accusations, as it can be challenging to verify transactions later if questions arise.

4. Failing to Administer an Oath or Affirmation

Certain notarizations require the signer to take an oath or affirmation. Skipping this crucial step is a form of misconduct and can lead to severe consequences for the document’s validity.

Understanding Penalties for Notary Misconduct

Penalties for notary misconduct vary based on the type and severity of the offense and local state laws. Understanding notary misconduct and penalties for legal non-compliance can help homeowners and business owners avoid issues with improperly notarized documents.

Civil Penalties

Civil penalties are commonly issued for misconduct, including fines or restitution payments to parties affected by the notary’s actions. If errors or negligence cause financial losses, a notary could be liable to compensate those impacted. Civil penalties stress accountability, mainly when misconduct results from a lack of proper diligence.

Criminal Penalties

Criminal penalties apply in cases of intentional fraud or deceit. For example, a notary who knowingly notarizes a forged document or falsifies a signature may face criminal charges. This can include jail time, substantial fines, or both. Criminal penalties are typically reserved for serious misconduct and aim to deter fraud in the notarization process.

Disciplinary Action

Disciplinary actions may include suspending or revoking a notary’s commission by the state licensing authority. These actions occur every day when misconduct is repeated or particularly severe. For instance, multiple complaints about a notary’s work can lead to a review and possible suspension to ensure that the integrity of notarizations is preserved.

Professional Liability

Many states require notaries to carry errors and omissions (E&O) insurance. This insurance covers claims arising from notary negligence, ensuring that the notary is financially protected if they’re held liable for losses caused by their actions. E&O insurance helps safeguard notaries and clients from the financial repercussions of mistakes.

How to Avoid Notary Misconduct

Avoiding notary misconduct starts with following best practices and understanding state-specific requirements. Both notaries and clients should take steps to ensure that notarizations are carried out lawfully.

For Notaries

  1. Verify identification Carefully: Always check identification thoroughly to confirm the signer’s identity and avoid fraud.
  2. Avoid Conflicts of Interest: Refuse notarizations where you may have a personal or financial interest.
  3. Keep Comprehensive Records: A well-kept journal can prevent disputes and prove compliance with notary laws.
  4. Stay Updated on State Laws: Notary requirements vary by state and can change over time. Staying informed about these laws helps avoid accidental misconduct.

For Clients

  1. Work with Reputable Notaries: Verify that the notary has a solid reputation and ask any necessary questions.
  2. Request Documentation: Clients may request records or copies of notarization journals for extra assurance.
  3. Watch for Red Flags: If a notary skips identification steps or fails to administer oaths when required, ask for proper procedures.

Safeguard Your Transactions

Understanding notary misconduct and penalties for legal non-compliance helps homeowners and business owners ensure the integrity of their transactions. Knowing common issues and legal consequences, you can better protect your documents and avoid unnecessary risks. To learn more about how notaries serve businesses, check out businesses that need notaries.

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July 21, 2023

Top Hurdles: The Problems Notaries Encounter

Filed under: General Articles — Tags: — Tom Wilkins @ 12:00 am

The notary industry is among the oldest yet most critical components of business transactions and legal documents. This job involves a lot of responsibility, complex details, and potential mistakes that may only be obvious once you have experience. We’ll look at some of the top issues affecting notaries everywhere and how they can prepare for these potential hurdles as best as possible, from knowing when to refuse to sign a document to understanding common frauds that you should watch out for a while on duty. The purpose of this blog post is to provide you with comprehensive information on how to become a successful notary and maintain your success.

Notarizing Documents When A Signer Isn’t Present

One of the primary concerns among notaries is the improper notarization of documents when the signer is absent, whether physically or through remote conferencing. Despite clear warnings against this practice, notaries may face pressure from clients or fall victim to social engineering tactics, such as bogus phone calls from the supposed signer.

When the signer isn’t present, the potential for fraud increases significantly. Ethical notaries must be prepared to decline requests for executing documents without all signers present, ensuring the integrity of the notarial process.

Insufficient Signer Identification

Confirming the identity of the signer is a critical step for notaries. State statutes typically require either personal knowledge or satisfactory evidence that the individual matches the description in the document. Government-issued identification, such as driver’s licenses, passports (foreign and domestic), military IDs, and permanent resident IDs, is commonly used to verify a signer’s identity.

To ensure compliance, notaries must familiarize themselves with the identification rules specific to their state and adopt reliable methods to confirm the identity of signers.

Incomplete Certificates and Oath/Affirmation Neglect

Completing a notarial certificate before signing and stamping it is a fundamental requirement. Neglecting to do so constitutes significant notary misconduct, potentially resulting in losing one’s commission or facing fines. Similarly, not administering an oath or affirmation during the notarization of a jurat is a common error to avoid.

To prevent such mistakes, notaries should review the essential elements of a notarial certificate, diligently learn the required verbal ceremonies for each act, and affix their seal only after completing the certification and ceremony accurately.

Challenges in an Expired Notary Environment

Navigating the notary business when one’s commission has expired can be daunting. It is essential to determine whether a traditional or electronic notary is required based on document specifications. For electronic notarization, notaries need to verify if their state permits remote online notarization (RON) and seek out providers that meet legal and security standards.

Notaries should schedule appointments with suitable RON providers to overcome these challenges, gather all necessary documents and valid identification, and be prepared to cover any applicable fees. Proactive planning ensures a seamless transition and avoids disruptions caused by the expiration of a notary commission.

Notarizing Documents After Commission Expiry

Remaining vigilant about commission expiration is crucial to avoid issues related to notarizing documents after expiration. Notaries must be aware of the consequences of acting as a notary public after their commission has expired, as fines and legal penalties vary by state.

Notaries should diligently monitor their commission’s expiration date to mitigate this risk and refrain from performing notarial acts beyond that point. Before scheduling customer appointments, thoroughly familiarizing oneself with state regulations and different notarial acts is essential.

Credible Witness Situations

Credible witnesses are pivotal in notarial services addressing one of the top issues affecting notaries. A credible witness becomes invaluable when confronted with a customer who needs more acceptable identification and is unfamiliar with the notary. This reliable third party is entrusted with the responsibility of testifying to the customer’s identity, helping to uphold the integrity of the notarial process.

Before proceeding with the notary act, notaries must notarize a verification on oath or affirmation signed by the credible witness. The witness confirms the customer’s identity and attests to their acquaintance.

Overcome Challenges, Excel As A Notary, And Leave Your Mark In The Field – Success Awaits You!

While these top issues affecting notaries may present challenges, they should encourage individuals to embrace their roles as public servants. By acknowledging these challenges and proactively preparing to overcome them, notaries can ensure the effective and reliable delivery of notarial services. Should additional problems arise or further assistance be needed, experienced notaries can provide guidance and support. Together, we can tackle these hurdles and uphold the integrity of the notary profession.

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June 16, 2023

Conquering Challenges Encountered by Notaries

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

As a notary, do you feel overwhelmed with the sheer number of challenges and obstacles that stand in your way? Do you ever get discouraged when it seems like every day brings new problems to solve? It’s hard for business owners to keep up with the demands of making things run smoothly. Still, luckily there are several top issues affecting notaries that can be proactively addressed. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the key steps you should take to get past the most frequent problems notaries see and create solutions that will benefit you personally and professionally.

Lack of Training

One of the biggest challenges facing notaries is the need for proper training. Many become notaries without fully comprehending the job prerequisites, which may result in mishandling particular situations or unintentional errors that could lead to legal issues. To resolve this, notaries must enroll in top-notch training programs encompassing all the job’s crucial aspects. These programs will assist notaries in comprehending their duties and how to navigate complex scenarios. Additionally, keeping up-to-date with any changes to laws or regulations that could impact the job is critical for notaries.

Document Fraud

As a notary, it is crucial to be aware of document fraud as it is a significant issue affecting the work. Fraudsters can manipulate documents or forge signatures for their advantage. To ensure the authenticity of the document being notarized and the identity of the signer at hand, we must be diligent in confirming their credentials and examining the document in detail. This includes asking for government-issued photo identification and carefully scrutinizing the document for any signs of tampering. Notaries must refuse to notarize the document and report it to the proper authorities if suspicions arise.

Quality of the Notaries

This profession is highly concerned about maintaining quality standards for notaries. Sadly, not all notaries adequately fulfill their responsibilities or follow established protocols. This, in turn, can lead to errors and legal complications, potentially damaging both the notary and their clientele. To address these shortcomings, it is vital that the industry demand heightened requirements and underscore the significance of the role. Notaries must ensure they maintain their professionalism and uprightness at all times. Additionally, joining professional organizations can furnish valuable backing and materials to support notaries’ work and encourage best practices.

Lack of Time

Notaries frequently encounter time limitations when notarizing documents, which can cause stress and mistakes for both the notary and the signer. To address this issue, notaries should prioritize scheduling appointments in advance to allow ample time to complete their work without feeling rushed. Additionally, notaries must have all essential materials and paperwork readily available to promote efficient work. Overcoming time constraints ensures the accuracy and professionalism needed in this critical role.

State-Specific Laws

Keeping track of state-specific laws and regulations is essential for notaries, as each state has its own set of rules. But staying up-to-date can be challenging, especially with ever-evolving changes. To overcome this daunting task, notaries can boost their knowledge by constantly being aware of the laws and regulations in their state. Joining a professional organization on the subject can also offer valuable resources and support.

Take Action, Shape A Future Where Notaries Thrive With Unwavering Integrity

Overcoming any challenge a notary may encounter can be daunting but achievable. It starts with having the right mindset and knowledge to tackle the issues head-on. Identifying the top issues affecting notaries is essential to prepare for all scenarios thoroughly. Fortunately, success and excellence in notarization are obtainable through dedication and resilience. Improving the quality of the notaries should always remain the top priority. Take the time and effort to read up on industry regulations, laws, and information consistently to ensure one’s capability as an E-Notary public remains current and up-to-date with ever-changing practices today.

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January 14, 2022

Psych Notary Episode

Filed under: Best Humorous Posts,Popular on Facebook (some),Popular Overall,Sit-Coms — Tags: — admin @ 11:54 pm

This was originally published many years ago.

There is a sit-com on Ion television that you can sometimes get on other cable stations called Psych. It’s about a psychic Shawn Spencer and his sidekick Burton Guster. In any case, the psychic is a fake half the time who sees real clues that nobody else saw him see and then pretends to have a vision.

In this episode, a Notary is found dead and his stamp is found missing. The detectives arrive on the scene.

LASSITER: The body is dead — and it’s cold. It could have been lying here for a good seven to ten hours in my estimate. The cause of death seems unclear.

JULES: Let’s take the body to the lab and see if there is any sign of food poisoning. The victim seems to be a Notary Public, and you know how those type of people are — you know — eating on the road on the run.

SHAWN: You’re right. He might have eaten a poisoned fish filet or….wait a second, I’m getting something… (puts his right two fingers to his head) This MAN, did not die from accidental food poisoning (pause)… he was murdered.

LASSITER: You and your unsubstantiated hunches. I just can’t stand it. And what’s worse is that you’re right more than half the time.

SHAWN: Some people say that I’m talented. Oh, and I’m sorry about your tragic breakup.

LASSITER: Yeah… so am I. I really fell for her.

SHAWN: Don’t despair Lassie, there are other fish in the sea… and coral, particularly Staghorn coral.. and sometimes Pillar coral, and it really sucks when that filmy type of algae gets stuck on the coral.. hmmm. I wonder how that happens. But, I digress. My point is that I’m sure you’ll find someone else.

GUS: Yeah… You’ll find someone. Algae on coral? Ain’t no algae on coral.

SHAWN: I’ve seen it. At least half a dozen times.

GUS: Where?

SHAWN: Snorkeling

GUS: Since when do you snorkel?

SHAWN: I snorkel… Why, you didn’t think I snorkeled? I’m a snorkeler. And I can communicate with fish too. Watch this (puts face near the fish tank and blows bubbles in the air) bubble bubble bubble… See. I told you. I am all about the sea.

JULES: Well, we’ll have to inspect the scene thoroughly and then round up some suspects. Hmm. It seems that this man is a Notary, yet his Notary seal seems to be missing. Perhaps this Notary was murdered to cover up a botched notarization.

LASSITER: Or perhaps the Notary had an exclusive contract with his boss, and his boss found out….

SHAWN: That the Notary was cheating on him… I think you’re projecting, Lassie. Your ex-girlfriend.

LASSITER: She never cheated on me! She was arrested for conspiracy.

SHAWN: Sure she didn’t. I understand. We need to know who the last one who was in the room was — and that man (or woman) will be… the killer.

GUS: What if there were two of them.

SHAWN: Okay… I’m getting something. (puts right fingers to side of head). I know who the killer is… or should I say… “Killizz”

LASSITER: According to this security footage, a well known gangster named Tommy Walker was the last man to come here.

SHAWN: Wait a second, I recognize those finger tattoos. Put them all together, one one hand is says love, and on the other hand’s fingers it says hate. And mom told me not to use four letter words. The killer had a document missing a page and the Notary refused to sign it. So, the killer murdered the Notary, stole the Notary’s stamp and backdated the notarization so that it would APPEAR to have been done long before the murder even though it would not be recorded until after because of some last minute travel arrangements gone bad.

JULES: How do you come up with this?

SHAWN: I have a natural gift.

(Meanwhile the main suspect Tommy Walker, a hardened criminal is at home eating fruit loops and watching the muffets when our dynamic team of sleuths barges in)

LASSITER: (pointing gun) You’re under arrest for the Murder of John Q Smith, Notary Public at large.

TOMMY: I didn’t kill him. He just died shortly after our Notary appointment.

SHAWN: Ah-ha, but your Notary appointment yielded no actual notarization. Or did it. Wait a second… I”m getting something (see’s notarized form in the bag) I see a … win a trip for two to Disney Land…

GUS: Shawn!

SHAWN: Oh, sorry, no… check right behind the Disneyland document and you will find the incriminating document. Yes… A falsified Power of Attorney with a classic missing page… The NNA warns people about that type of situation.

JULES: Oh my God Shawn. You’re right. This Notarization was dated several days ago, but the ink is still fresh.

SHAWN: Caught… in the act. And… we happen to have access to this Notary’s Notary journal which has no record of your transaction on May 5th, “el cinco de Mayo” of the Power of Attorney in question. Which proves that either the Notary kept lousy records, or that you faked the notarization. We’ll have to take the form to the lab so that Woody can inspect the ink for aging.

TOMMY: Okay, I did it. I stole the Notary’s seal, but I didn’t kill him. The killer

SHAWN: Or “Killizz”

TOMMY: is STILL at large. We’ll have to wait for the autopsy. In the mean time… hello travelocity.

JULES: Not so fast. We have the right to detain you until we resolve this.

GUS: Good thing this Notary kept good records because many Notaries on 123notary don’t think they need to keep a journal since their state doesn’t require it. And the ones in California who are required, don’t understand that each document and signature require their own journal entry. You can’t just put them all on the same line and expect that to be a legal record.

SHAWN: How do you know all this?

GUS: Because I used to be a commissioned Notary Public for the state of California, County of Santa Barbara — thank you very much for asking.

SHAWN: Oh cool, so can you notarize my stuffed penguin I’ve had since childhood?

GUS: You never had a stuffed penguin.

SHAWN : Did too, you just never saw it.

GUS: Where did you keep it?

LASSITER: Gentlemen, let’s be done with this inconsequential rambling and get to the task at hand. We need to take Tommy into custody and then question him. Meanwhile, we need to see Woody to see what the autopsy reveals.

WOODY: Hmmm, I’ve checked the body thoroughly and it seems that the Notary was administered a tiny amount of poison that would make him drowsy for just the amount of time it would take Tommy to borrow the Notary’s seal, stamp a document, return the seal and then leave. Tommy probably figured the Notary wouldn’t suspect a thing. HOWEVER, since the Notary had an allergy to some of the chemicals in the poison, the Notary died on the spot. Although the death was accidental, the poisoning was not.

LASSITER: Involuntary manslaughter. Tommy will get a much shorter sentence. A petty crime gone wrong.

SHAWN: Couldn’t the Notary die on an x, or on a dotted line instead of on the spot. Wouldn’t that be cooler.

GUS: Shawn! A notary can’t die on an x marks the spot. That’s ridiculous. He could die on a chair.

SHAWN: Or a gezebo. Or … wait a second, or a pagoda. But, that would probably only be a Japanese Notary.

GUS: Unless it was an American tourist Notary who was on vacation in a place where there are pagodas.

SHAWN: True, but would the American Notary carry their seal with them to Osaka to a pagoda and then just die there?

GUS: I don’t know. But, the Notary seal might drop out of his bag while he was bowing. When Americans bow, they bow too low. Japanese bow just a little bit — just the right amount.

SHAWN: How do you know so much about bowing?

GUS: I studied Hokkaido style karate — that is how I know. And if you studied that too, the knowledge would come from within you.

SHAWN: Right now the only thing coming from within me is an intense desire to eat a pineapple. Wanna share one?

GUS: Okay!

LASSITER: You guys are both insane. But, we cracked the case and we can all go home now, except for Tommy who’s going to do some real time.

SHAWN: Yes, unless he also finds a way to backdate his prison sentence!

.

You might also like:

Best Virtual Comedy Compilation Updated 2018
http://blog.123notary.com/?p=17693

See our string of Psych episodes
http://blog.123notary.com/?tag=psych

Psychic – Notary Psychic Tarot Card Reading
http://blog.123notary.com/?p=19126

Suicide – Notary Suicide Hotline
http://blog.123notary.com/?p=6995

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January 7, 2022

The Joy of Saying NO

This was published originally many years ago.

A call comes in from SSS (Sleazy Signing Service) asking if I was available to do a notary job. “Yes” I reply; please tell me more. The job is “precisely” 1.3 miles from your location. It has a single “tiny” PDF. There are “about” 12 pages, and we will provide a return account number for making a UPS label, at no cost to you. I am starting to get the feeling that this is a bottom fisher, but am curious as to the location. Where is the signing to be done? They give a location in the middle of Manhattan, the absolutely worst place for traffic. Mass transit also goes there but the service is quite slow and the waits for bus or train are lengthy. The subway train is faster, but the platforms are not air conditioned and it’s like standing next to a pizza oven.

“Shall I send you a confirmation and the docs?” You can, but first you need to understand how I run my business. I am the seller of the service and set both the price and the payment terms. My fee is $150 (much more than I usually charge, but I had a bad feeling and wanted to get rid of this particular SSS); and that is payable within the next 10 minutes on my site, via PayPal, prior to my printing of the documents.

We don’t work that way, we are willing to pay $40, and you will have to include an invoice when you return the completed documents and we will send a check during our next disbursement cycle; are you interested? No. I didn’t hear you, please repeat what you said. No. Dial tone.

Of course this is an extreme example. Their offer of $40 would entail at least 2 hours of effort, and the expenditure of over a gallon of near 5$ fuel. You know the components of doing any notary work. Calls, printing, travel, record keeping, trip to UPS, dunning for peanuts (in this case), etc. What I can’t understand is the (feigned?) surprise at SSS when I declined their offer. Are there notaries out there who will jump for any lowballer offer? I sure hope not.

However, NO is not always the best answer and you can’t say that “perhaps” or “maybe” you will take the assignment. But you CAN tell them you will be accepting the assignment – AND – will be checking their reputation. If you find they have a negative or no reputation, you will be requiring that they pay “up front”. Some might never mention that process, and will choose to do their “credit checking” as soon as they can get to a computer. If they have a good history, just do the job. But, if they have a bunch of negatives – call and “require” payment in advance.

Back to the fee amount. You know what you must charge to earn a living. Isn’t it about time that you put your foot down and declined lowball offers. Some notaries are out there taking the low fees; and the SSSs in this world have endless phone time to find them. Are you fed up with finding on the HUD that the SSS received $250 and your share is $75? I work with several very honorable Signing Services that take 25$ to 50$ “off the top”. But I always receive the majority of the fee. The reason you don’t is that you have trouble saying NO. Practice, look in the mirror and repeat NO NO NO – I refuse to allow anyone to take advantage of me.

I’m sitting at my PC typing this for you. I am exceedingly happy that I do NOT have a toxic receivable of $40 to chase after putting in 2+ hours in midtown traffic. I prefer to try to influence my fellow notaries to just say NO to the lowballers. You can do it, think: NO NO NO. After you decline the first lowballer you will feel great, and will be ready to “dump” the ones that follow.

.

You might also like:

The art of the decline — to new Notary jobs
http://blog.123notary.com/?p=15783

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June 18, 2021

12 ways to negatively advertise yourself and fail as a mobile notary

Filed under: Advertising — admin @ 8:51 am

Notaries hire us to advertise them and promote them by virtue of listing them. But, many notaries do counterproductive things with their advertising. Let’s take a closer look.

YOUR BUSINESS NAME
1. Have a generic sounding business name like “Nationwide Notary Service” , “Statewide Signing Service”, or “Illinois Notary Service.” You will get confused with a lot of others and not stand out. Or just don’t have a business name at all.

REVIEWS
2. Don’t ask for reviews — ever… And make sure your work isn’t that great, which will alleviate the risk of getting a positive review. Or you could try to get negative reviews.

PHONE ETIQUETTE
3. Never answer your phone, and if you do, make sure to have screaming kids in the background, try to sound muffled, don’t speak into the phone, and don’t be polite. Never announce who you are when you answer your phone — make them guess.

4. Give roundabout answers to questions via phone and insert lots of unasked for information which you think makes you look knowledgeable, but to them makes you look like an annoying novice who won’t stop talking.

YOUR NOTES SECTION
5. Use baseless cliche adjectives to describe yourself like “responsible” and “reliable”

6. Leave your notes section blank on your 123notary listing profile.

7. Ramble on and on in your notes section without letting people know your credentials or what you know how to do.

YOUR PROFILE
8. Don’t fill in your # of loans signed on your profile. Let people guess and when they ask, say, “lots” rather than giving them actual tangible information such as an actual number.

9. Only work two days a week, and only three hours on each day.

10. Only serve your home county and refuse to go anywhere else for any price.

KNOWLEDGE & CERTIFICATIONS

11. Don’t get any. Or at a minimum, don’t get certified by any agency with tough testing standards. Why bother?

12. Make sure you don’t know your notary knowledge at all. That way you can ensure that you will make Notary mistakes, get in lots of trouble and lose clients.

SUMMARY
If you follow all of my tips, I guarantee that you will do really poorly in your business unless you have a very loyal following already. On the other hand, do the opposite, and you might do well. In addition to these tips, if you send back packages late, or in incomplete form, and speak in a rude way to clients, that will enhance your ability to fail in business. Once again, do the opposite and you might succeed.

I wrote this article in jest, but the reality is that most Notaries are not doing everything, or even half of everything they need to do to succeed. Making it as a mobile notary is not a matter of luck. There is a checklist of things you need to do: Notes, Reviews, Certifications, Notes, Business Name, Phone Etiquette, Notary Skills, etc.

The good news is that we have many articles and even free courses on our blog for ALL of these points. And you can become an expert with n

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