Notary Services

• Acknowledgement: $15 per signature. A notary public acknowledges a signature on a document, verifying the signer's identity.

• Jurats: $15 per signature. A notary public administers an oath or affirmation to the signer regarding the truthfulness of the document's contents and then certifies the signature.

• Certified Power of Attorney: $15. A notary public certifies a copy of a power of attorney under Probate Code section 4307

• Oaths and Affirmations: $15 per individual. A notary public administers a verbal oath or affirmation to an individual.

• Depositions: $30 plus $7 for the oath and $7 for the certificate. A notary public administers an oath to a witness and certifies the transcript of a deposition.​

To ensure a smooth notary appointment, please be prepared with the following:

• Unsigned Document(s): The document(s) requiring notarization must be presented to the notary public unsigned. You will sign the document(s) in the presence of the notary.

• Valid Identification: You must present a valid, government-issued identification that includes a photograph, physical description, and signature. Acceptable forms of ID include:

  • California Driver's License or ID Card

  • Out-of-state Driver's License or ID Card (from another U.S. state)

  • U.S. Passport

  • Foreign Passport (stamped by USCIS)

  • U.S. Military ID

  • Inmate ID Card (issued by CDCR)

• Witnesses (if required): Some documents may require witnesses in addition to the notary. If your document specifies witnesses, they must also be present with valid identification.

• Payment for Services: Be prepared to pay the applicable notary fees and travel fees (if any) as outlined in the "Char's Mobile Notary Fees" section. The travel fee is required as a deposit to book the appointment. May be waived upon prior approval.

• Travel Fee (Greater Sacramento, Business Hours): $45. This fee is charged for the notary's travel within the Greater Sacramento area during standard business hours.

• Travel Fee (After-Hours): An Additional $60. This additional fee applies to travel outside of standard business hours.

• Deposit: A travel fee required to book an appointment. The travel fee must be paid in advance to secure a notary appointment. Deposit may be waived at my discretion. Contact me to discuss options.

• What is a notary public? A notary public is an impartial witness to the signing of important documents, verifying the identity of the signer and ensuring they sign willingly.

• Why do I need a notary? Notaries are crucial for deterring fraud. Their official seal and signature authenticate the signing of documents, making them legally binding and trustworthy.

• What types of documents require notarization? Common documents include affidavits, deeds, powers of attorney, loan documents, and various legal agreements.

• Can a notary provide legal advice? No, a notary public is prohibited from providing legal advice or drafting legal documents. Their role is strictly to act as an impartial witness.

• Do I need to sign the document before meeting the notary? No, you must sign the document in the presence of the notary public. This allows the notary to verify your identity and witness your signature.

• Can a notary refuse service? Yes, a notary can refuse service if they have reason to believe the signer is not acting willingly, if the identification is insufficient, or if the document appears to be fraudulent.

• Are witnesses always required? Not always. Some documents, like certain wills or real estate transactions, may specifically require witnesses in addition to the notary. If your document requires witnesses, they must also be present with valid identification.

• How long does a notarization take? The actual notarization process is usually quick, typically a few minutes per signature, assuming all requirements are met and documents are ready.

• Can a notary travel to my location? Yes, many notaries offer mobile services and can travel to you for an additional travel fee.

• What is a travel fee? A travel fee covers the notary's time and expenses for traveling to your specified location. This fee is separate from the per-signature notarization fee.

• Is a deposit required for mobile notary services? Often, the travel fee is required as a non-refundable deposit to book and confirm a mobile notary appointment.