Frequently asked questions (faqs)
Frequently asked questions (faqs)
The signer must have a valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID. In some instances 2 forms ID is required. Please read your document(s) carefully and consult with the issuing organization to ensure that you have proper ID for the notarial act.
The signer must be able to understand the content and purpose of the document, sign the document voluntarily, and be able to write his own name without any help from others.
The signer must not be affected by psychoactive substances such as painkillers, drugs, tranquilizers, alcohol, etc. He or she should be alert, aware, and willing to sign documents. To protect the signer, the notary of the Remote & Mobile Silver Spring Notary (RMSS) will refuse to notarize any patient or signer who appears to be mentally unsound or incapacitated.
If the signer’s family or other visitors cause any kind of commotion, the notary may ask them to leave the room temporarily to ensure that the signer is not under external pressure or command.
Before the notary arrives, the signer should prepare completed documents with no blanks (except for the signature and notarial certificates part).
If witnesses are needed, please ensure that the witness is also present. Generally speaking, a witness must be at least 18 years old, of sound mind, and have no interest in the parties. It is the obligation of the signer to find witnesses, and the RMSS. does not provide witnesses.
The duty of a notary is to verify the identity of the signer and their willingness to sign the documents, not to provide legal advice. For details of the documents, please confirm with lawyers, professionals, or individuals or organizations requesting documents.
Many people confuse electronic notarization with remote notarization, believing they are the same. They are not.
Electronic notarization, or eNotarization, involves documents that are notarized in electronic form, and the Notary and document signer sign with an electronic signature. But all other elements of a traditional, paper notarization apply to electronic notarization, including the requirement for the signer to physically appear before the Notary.
The confusion arises from the fact that remote notarizations typically involve digital documents that are signed and notarized electronically. However they go a step further in that the transaction is conducted online rather than in person.