FAQs
Below are some common questions about the notarization process, fees, and more. If your question isn't answered down below, feel free to email me or text me with any questions!
What types of documents can you notarize?
I can notarize a wide range of documents, including:
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Power of Attorney
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Wills & Trusts
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Medical directives
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Parental consent forms
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Business contracts
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DMV forms (like Bill of Sale or Release of Interest)
Note: Oregon notaries cannot notarize vital records (birth/death certificates), nor can I provide legal advice or draft legal documents. Currently, I do not offer notarizations on mortgage or real estate documents.
What do I need to have for a notarization appointment?
You’ll need:
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The complete, unsigned document to be notarized (do not sign it beforehand)
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A valid, government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport)
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All signers present
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Payment for the service
Please keep in mind that I cannot accept pictures or copies of your ID.
How much do you charge?
In Oregon, notary fees are regulated:
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$10 per notarized signature
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Mobile/travel fee is additional and varies based on distance, location, and time of day.
Example: A notarization in Eugene might cost $10 per signature + $35 travel fee. After-hours, urgent appointments, or special circumstances may incur extra fees.
Are you available evenings or weekends?
Yes, depending on availability. Mobile notary services are available by appointment, including evenings and weekends. Same-day or emergency services may be possible depending on availability. After-hours and weekend appointments may incur an additional fee.
Can you come to hospitals, nursing homes, or jails?
I'm happy to accommodate appointments at hospitals, nursing homes, jails, and other non-traditional locations. Please note that additional travel time or access considerations may result in extra fees.
What if the signer doesn’t have ID?
Oregon law requires signers to be identified using satisfactory evidence, which usually means a government-issued photo ID. If no ID is available, Oregon allows credible witnesses (one or two disinterested persons who can vouch for the signer’s identity). Credible witnesses will require a government issued photo ID and will be required to take an oath. The fee for the oath is $10 (which is separate from the fee charged for any other notarial act). Call ahead to discuss this.
Can the Notary Serve as a Witness?
No, not in Oregon. As a commissioned notary, my role is to verify the identities of the signer and any required witnesses. Because of this, I cannot act as a witness myself.
If your document requires one or more witnesses, please arrange for independent individuals with valid photo ID to be present at the appointment. These individuals must be able to watch you sign and then sign the document themselves.
What to Know About Choosing Witnesses
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Witnesses must generally be 18 years or older.
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Close relatives may not be allowed, depending on the document type.
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You may need more than one witness — check the document or certificate instructions carefully.
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For wills, while I cannot provide legal advice, it’s typically recommended to choose disinterested parties who are not receiving anything under the document.
Important Reminder for Facility Signings
If you're signing documents in a hospital, care home, or assisted living facility, be aware that staff members (like nurses or aides) are usually not permitted to serve as witnesses. This is due to potential conflicts of interest and their job duties.
Please ensure your chosen witnesses — along with their valid IDs — are present and ready to sign at the time of your appointment.
Can you notarize out-of-state documents?
Yes! As long as the notarization takes place within the State of Oregon and all legal requirements are met, we can notarize documents prepared for use in other states.
Can you help fill out my document?
Unfortunately, no. Notaries are not allowed to give legal advice or assist with document preparation unless they are also licensed professionals (e.g., attorney). Please consult a qualified professional for help with legal content.
What should and shouldn’t be on a document before it’s notarized?
Your document should be complete before the notarization takes place. That means all required fields (like names, dates, and terms) should be filled in and not leaving any blank spaces that could be changed later. However, do not sign the document until you're in front of the notary (unless otherwise instructed). Also, the document should not contain any obvious signs of tampering, such as crossed-out sections or missing pages. If the document lacks a notarial certificate, I can provide options, but you must choose the one appropriate for your needs — I cannot choose it for you.
What is a notarial certificate?
The notarial certificate is a written statement completed by the notary that confirms the details of the notarization. In Oregon, a valid certificate must include all six of the following elements:
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The state and county where the notarization takes place
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The date of the notarization
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The name of the signer
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The type of notarial act being performed
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The notary’s signature
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The notary’s official stamp
All six elements are required for the certificate to be valid. If your document doesn’t already include a notarial certificate, I can provide a few standard options you can choose from to attach to your document. It’s up to you to decide which type of certificate is appropriate for your situation.