Frequently Asked Questions

• Document(s) to be notarized. 
• Ensure all of the spaces are filled in except for the signature line. That must be signed in front of the notary.  
• Valid, unexpired photo ID
• Witnesses if needed*

All signers must be physically present.

*If you need us to provide witnesses, please let us know ahead of time so we can make arrangements. 

A valid (not expired)  federal or state government issued photo ID such as a US Passport,  Driver's License, State Identification Card, Military ID, Inmate ID Card.

*Current Foreign Passports are acceptable in Texas when notarizing a deed or other instrument related to a residential real estate transaction only. All other documents will not be able to accept a foreign passport.  (Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code 121.005[b][3]; 1 TAC 87.1[1]) 

Not acceptable: Social Security Card, School ID, Work ID/ Badge, Credit Card

No. Advising clients on what to do would be considered unauthorized practice of law. Our duties as a notary is to properly identify who is signing to prevent fraud and to make sure the proper documents are signed and notarized. 

If you have questions or concerns about the contents of the document, contact the attorney or person who either drafted or requested the document. For loan signings or real estate transactions, any questions pertaining to the loan or real estate sale should be directed to your loan officer or real estate agent. 

Vital records - birth certificates, death certificates, marriage  certificates, divorce decrees. You can request a copy from the original source. 

Recordable documents - notaries cannot notarize or make certified copies of recordable documents, which are documents that are recorded with a governmental entity like the county clerk. 

Documents that have white out. 

Documents signed by a mentally incapacitated person who does not understand the implications of the document. 

* Notaries may also refuse to notarize a document if they are uncomfortable with the transaction, such as when they suspect the transaction is fraudulent or the signer is intoxicated or being coerced.  

 Yes, we are able to notarize documents from any state, as long as the notarization occurs within our jurisdiction (Texas). 

 1.  Is Remote Online Notarization legal?

Yes, it is legal, however, the laws and regulations vary from state to state. Many states have enacted permanent RON laws, but it's crucial to verify the specific requirements in your location.

2.  What do I need to complete a Remote Online Notarization?

You will need:

• A computer or mobile device with a webcam and microphone.
• A stable internet connection.
• An unexpired, valid government-issued photo ID.
• The document(s) to be notarized in digital format.
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3.  Can I use Remote Online Notarization if I am outside of the United States?

Yes, as long as the notary is commissioned in a U.S. state that allows RON, you can sign and notarize documents from anywhere in the world, provided you meet identity verification requirements.

4.  How secure is Remote Online Notarization?

RON platforms employ robust security measures, including:

• Identity verification though Knowledge-Based Authentication check.
• Audio-video recording of the notarization session.
• Electronic journal keeping.
• Digital certificates and electronic seals.

These measures are designed to ensure the integrity and security of the notarization process.

5.  What documents can be notarized online?

Most documents that can be notarized in person can also be notarized online. 

Affidavits, powers of attorney, real estate forms, and legal agreements — can be notarized remotely. However, some states may restrict certain documents like wills or codicils.

There might be some exceptions depending on state laws and the specific requirements of the receiving party. It is always best to check with the receiving entity of the document, to ensure that they will accept a remotely online notarized document.

 1.   What is the difference between an Apostille and Document Legalization?

An Apostille is used when sending documents to countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention. It simplifies the authentication process to a single certificate.

Legalization is required for countries not in the Convention, and involves multiple steps, including certification by your country’s foreign affairs office and the consulate of the destination country.

2.  Can I Apostille a copy of a document, or does it have to be the original?

It depends on the type of document and the issuing authority.

• Official records (like birth certificates) usually require certified originals.
• Personal or business documents (like contracts or diplomas) can often be notarized copies, which are then apostilled.

3. Do apostilles expire or need to be renewed?

An apostille itself does not expire, but the document it certifies may have a validity period depending on how it's used. For example, a background check might only be accepted if issued within the last 3 or 6 months, even with a valid apostille.