Notaries play a vital role in the legal system, helping to verify and authenticate important documents. Whether you’re buying a home, creating a will, or finalizing a business contract, a notary public can help ensure your documents are legally recognized. But what exactly does a notary do? How much do their services cost? And when do you need one?
At Gentreo, www.gentreo.com, we understand the importance of notarization in estate planning and other legal matters. When your Gentreo document prints out, it provides clear instructions on what to do next, such as signing in front of two witnesses or getting it notarized to ensure its legal validity. Read on to learn about the different types of notaries, their estimated costs, and when you might need one.
What Is a Notary?
A notary public is a state-appointed official who serves as an impartial witness to the signing of important documents. Notaries help deter fraud by verifying the identities of signers and ensuring that documents are signed willingly and under the correct legal conditions.
A notary’s duties typically include:
- Verifying the identity of signers
- Ensuring signers understand the document they are signing
- Witnessing the signing of documents
- Applying an official seal and signature to the document
Notaries are essential for many legal and financial transactions, including estate planning, real estate deals, business agreements, and more.
Types of Notaries
Notaries can serve different roles based on their certification and jurisdiction. Here are the main types of notaries:
1. Traditional Notary Public
A traditional notary public performs in-person notarizations and is authorized to verify signatures, administer oaths, and certify copies of documents. Traditional notaries are typically found in banks, law offices, and other professional settings.
2. Electronic Notary (eNotary)
Electronic notaries perform notarizations using digital documents and electronic signatures. However, they still require the signers to be physically present during the process. eNotarization is gaining popularity as digital transactions become more common. Note that your state may not allow eNotarization.
3. Remote Online Notary (RON)
A remote online notary (RON) conducts notarizations entirely online via video conferencing. This type of notary allows signers to verify their identity and sign documents remotely. Many states have adopted RON laws to make notarization more convenient, particularly for estate planning and real estate transactions.
4. Mobile Notary
A mobile notary travels to a signer’s location to perform notarizations. This service is particularly useful for those who cannot travel to a notary’s office due to health or mobility concerns.
5. Notary Signing Agent (NSA)
A notary signing agent specializes in notarizing loan and mortgage documents. NSAs often work with real estate companies and mortgage lenders to facilitate home purchases and refinancing.
Cost of Notary Services
The cost of notarization varies based on location, document type, and the method of notarization. Here’s what you can expect:
Standard Notary Fees
Most states regulate the maximum fee a notary can charge per signature or notarial act. Fees typically range from $5 to $15 per signature.
Mobile Notary Fees
Mobile notaries charge additional fees for travel, usually between $25 and $75, depending on distance and location.
Remote Online Notary Fees
Remote online notaries may charge higher fees due to the technology and security measures involved. Fees for RON services often range from $25 to $50 per document.
Loan Signing Fees
Notary signing agents handling loan documents may charge anywhere from $75 to $200 per signing appointment, depending on the complexity of the transaction.
It’s important to check state regulations and obtain a fee estimate before hiring a notary. Some banks and public institutions offer free notary services for customers.
When Do You Need a Notary?
Certain legal and financial transactions require notarization to be valid. Here are some common scenarios where a notary is necessary:
Estate Planning Documents
- Wills and Trusts: Some states require notarization for wills and trusts to be legally binding.
- Powers of Attorney: A notary can verify that a power of attorney document is signed voluntarily and legally.
Learn more about estate planning with Gentreo.
Real Estate Transactions
- Deeds and Mortgages: Notarization is often required for real estate transactions to prevent fraud and ensure authenticity.
- Lease Agreements: Some states mandate notarization for certain lease agreements, especially those exceeding a specific duration.
Business and Financial Documents
- Contracts and Agreements: Many legal contracts may require notarization to be enforceable.
- Corporate Documents: Business formations, such as articles of incorporation, often require notarization.
- Affidavits and Sworn Statements: Legal affidavits and sworn statements must be notarized to be admissible in court.
Personal and Government Documents
- Adoption Papers: Notarization ensures authenticity in adoption-related legal documents.
- Passport and Immigration Forms: Certain immigration and travel documents require notarization.
- Vehicle Title Transfers: Some states require notarized signatures on vehicle title transfers.
How to Find a Notary
Finding a notary has become easier thanks to online directories and mobile notary services. Here are some ways to locate a notary:
- Banks and Credit Unions: Many financial institutions offer notary services to customers.
- Law Offices and Real Estate Agencies: These offices often have notaries on staff.
- Shipping and Postal Stores: UPS, FedEx, and other shipping centers frequently offer notary services.
- Online Notary Services: Remote online notarization is available through platforms like Notarize and NotaryCam.
How to Prepare for a Notarization
To ensure a smooth notarization process, follow these steps:
- Bring a Valid ID: A government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport) is required.
- Have All Documents Ready: Ensure all forms are completed but unsigned before meeting the notary.
- Confirm Notary Requirements: Verify whether witnesses are needed or if the document has special requirements.
- Be Physically Present (If Required): Some notarizations require in-person signing unless using RON services.
Gentreo Digital Vault: Securely Store Your Notarized Documents
The Gentreo Digital Vault makes it easy to securely store and access electronically notarized documents or pictures of notarized estate planning documents. With Gentreo, you can organize and share essential documents with trusted family members and advisors, ensuring everything is in place when needed.
A notary public is essential for verifying and authenticating many legal documents, ensuring they are legally binding and fraud-free. Whether you need to notarize your estate plan documents like your will, power of attorney or living trust, or real estate contract, understanding the different types of notaries and their costs can help you make informed decisions.
At Gentreo, we make estate planning simple and accessible. Our Gentreo Digital Vault provides a secure way to store and manage your important documents, ensuring they’re available when you need them.
If you’re ready to start planning for your future, explore our estate planning services today!
Don’t wait until it’s too late; start your estate planning journey with Gentreo today. By doing so, you’ll not only protect your loved ones but also gain the peace of mind that comes with knowing your legacy is secure. Click HERE to join now.
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Consult with a qualified attorney or estate planning professional for personalized guidance.
