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Notary News

Avoiding Document Errors

No matter your profession or standing in a company, errors are things we all try to avoid.

Our goal as notaries is to send back a completed package with no errors so the transaction is approved with no delays. There are many reasons a document can be rejected by title including: Missing signatures, unclear stamp, incomplete notary block, etc… Here are a few steps to take to reduce the likelihood of errors or catch them before submitting to title.

TAKE YOUR TIME

This is going to be your most important step in reducing errors. To often we see notaries rush a signing to move on to their next closing causing signatures to be missed or items forgotten. Go over each document carefully, ensure there are no blank lines, and all signatures and notary requirements are met before moving on.

CHECK YOUR WORK

Avoiding Document Errors

Take the time to review the package once completed before you leave location. This way any missed items can be corrected there at the table verses having to schedule another appointment and delaying funding or closing.

MAKE SURE YOUR STAMP IS CLEAR AND NOTARY SECTION IS COMPLETE

A document can be executed perfectly, but still rejected due to an unclear stamp. If your stamp is distorted or faded in any section where your information can be deemed illegible, strike a single line through that stamp, initial the correction, and re-stamp the document. All stamps must be legible on a scan and the original to be approved.

Ensure your notary section is filled out completely. There should be no blank lines on a document for the signer, the same goes for your notary section. We see many notaries who assume that their stamp is sufficient for the notary block but that is not the case for most title companies. To save yourself a possible rejection later, fill out the notary section in full.

INITIAL CORRECTIONS

Documents can be rejected for something as simple as a missing initial on a correction. No matter who makes the correction on the document, signer or notary, that party must initial the correction to verify that they were in fact the one who corrected it. This includes corrections to state/county in the notary section.

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT

One of the best suggestions we can give you is practice.

Try to complete a few sample packages with a friend or family member so you can practice not only your table side manner, but signature placement and filling out notary acknowledgments. The more signings you conduct, the better you will be at executing a signing with little to no errors.

CONTACT YOUR SIGNING COMPANY

The signing company is a resource, not just the company that hires you.

Communication is key to understanding and solving problems at the table. Do not hesitate to contact your signing company so they can assist you with getting questions answered or going over a document you are not familiar with. It is better to ask questions than assume and have a correction later down the road.

Sunshine Signing Service

Your Nationwide Notary Signing Service

Increase your efficiency and bottom line with Sunshine’s Mobile Notary Services and Online Notary Services. Sunshine is always there when you need us.

Or Call us at (727) 817-0000

How to Conduct a Signing with an Impolite Customer

The hope and goal for any signing is a smooth transaction and a likeable signer. We all love these types of signings and cross our fingers for this kind of outcome every time.

But…. this is not always the case.

This article will address how to handle a rude or impolite signer properly and professionally.

First and Foremost, Stay Calm.

Keep in mind that they are more than likely not even upset with you as the notary and more with the situation. Real estate transactions can be a long and tedious process that can take anywhere from a few weeks to almost a year depending on the signer’s circumstances.

They are having to deal with multiple people from the lender to title all the way down to you, the notary. It is easily frustrating, and the smallest thing could be a trigger for impolite behavior.

Empathize with your signers.

We all want to feel heard, and our problems validated. A little empathy goes a long way to diffusing an upset client or atmosphere. You understand their position and why this is frustrating, lets find a solution or explanation for the problem.

Dealing with an impolite signer

Loop in Title or the Lender.

Often, the signer is upset over incorrect information or figures on their docs. Docs they have been negotiating and working with their LO on for months! Incorrect numbers when they finally see the light at the end of the tunnel can lead to a quick decline in the signer’s demeanor.

Offer to let them speak to their LO or title contact so any questions or incorrect information can be resolved quickly. Providing solutions to their problems and contacting the correct individual quickly goes a long way in decreasing tension at the signing table.

Do not force yourself to stay in a potentially dangerous environment.

An upset or rude customer comes in a variety of levels. While most can be diffused and the signing put back on track, there will be those few who are unwilling to work with you. Your safety should always come first, meaning if a situation continues to escalate and your attempts to help them or find a solution have not produced the desired result, excuse yourself and offer to reschedule at a later date. Contact title or the signing company who contracted you to explain the situation so they can address the signer directly.

These kinds of situations can be unpleasant, and they are never the types of signings we want at the end of the day. However, by using the above tips and trying to keep in mind their side of the story, practically any situation can be resolved where everyone leaves the table with a smile.

Sunshine Signing Service

Your Nationwide Notary Signing Service

Increase your efficiency and bottom line with Sunshine’s Mobile Notary Services and Online Notary Services. Sunshine is always there when you need us.

Or Call us at (727) 817-0000

Tips and Tricks for Staying Safe on a Mobile Signing

What are two factors that we all share in our job as a mobile notary?

Travel and meeting New People

While these two things are par for the course for all notaries, our goal in this post is to provide a few tips and tricks to help you stay safe on the road and encountering new people in their home.

There is always a risk in going to a new location, but in following these few steps we are hoping to provide you with the tools and knowledge needed to keep you safe during your signings.

  1. If you are able, always let someone know where your assignment is taking place and the general time it will take you to return
  2. Make sure your phone is charged so you have the ability to contact someone in an emergency
  3. We know this line of work can mean back-to-back signings with minimal opportunities to go home, so bring a mobile phone charger with you just in case
  4. Share minimal details of your schedule with anyone you do not fully trust or know
  5. All though a great concern for safety, we know it is frowned upon to keep your phone in Ring mode vs Silent or Vibration mode. We suggest one of the latter, only so you can make a quick emergency call if needed.
  6. Make sure your car has routine maintenance to reduce possible breaks downs
  7. Invest in a reliable GPS system or app for your smartphone so you are limiting the risk of getting lost
  8. Make sure you are calling the signer to confirm- introduce yourself by full name, include a description of your car. This ensures the signer knows who and what to expect upon your arrival to location and decrease any potentially hostile encounters since you’re a stranger coming to their home
  9. There is always the potential for a client to get upset. Handling the situation calmly and offering them the option to reach out to their title contact, or us, can go a long way in diffusing the tension and regaining control of the signing. Keep the contact on the phone till the signer is calm and a resolution or decision has been reached.
  10. Your safety is priority number one, never keep yourself in a potentially dangerous or uncomfortable situation for a signing
Tips and Tricks for Staying Safe on a Mobile Signing

Setting the Stage

While these few points do not cover all the potential situations you may encounter on the job, they lay a foundation for risk prevention and increase your awareness of possible situations to prepare for.

Sunshine has always put the safety and well being of our notaries first and we encourage all notaries to contact us with any potential safety issues or concerns so we can be another added safety measure.

Sunshine Signing Service

Your Nationwide Notary Signing Service

Increase your efficiency and bottom line with Sunshine’s Mobile Notary Services and Online Notary Services. Sunshine is always there when you need us.

Or Call us at (727) 817-0000

Why are Notaries so Important in Today’s Legal System?

While we have all undoubtedly heard about notary work at one point or another, what really makes a
notary so vital for a legal transaction to take place?

The role and responsibilities of a notary have evolved over the years since their origin, which can
be traced back to ancient Egypt. Back then, the main tasks performed by a notary were transcribing and recording public and legal proceedings. And while these duties have changed over time, the role a
notary serves are no less significant in today’s day and age.

The primary service offered by a notary is acting as an unbiased third-party witness to legal
transactions. By validating a signer’s identity and the documents being signed, they are offering a layer
of protection that would not be available otherwise.

Let’s be honest, fraud is a very real concern in our current society and the role played by our
notaries is a significant deterrent. They are also valuable in preventing contract disputes and possible
litigation, as all signers would have to be present and acknowledge the documents being signed in front of a notary.

Notaries in Today's Legal System

Remember, having a document notarized makes it legally binding and holds all signing parties accountable for any terms or transactions listed in the document, so long as they were verified and credentialed by a notary.

So, while hiring a notary may seem like an unnecessary step in an already long process for a
signer, they are obtaining a layer of safety and credibility that will ensure a smooth transaction for all
parties involved.

Sunshine Signing Service

Your Nationwide Notary Signing Service

Increase your efficiency and bottom line with Sunshine’s Mobile Notary Services and Online Notary Services. Sunshine is always there when you need us.

Or Call us at (727) 817-0000

Why Use Sunshine Signing

Why Choose Sunshine?

We provide you with a mobile notary anytime or anywhere, even rural areas, within four hours. Our notaries are the most professional in the industry, are courteous and prompt, as well as dependable. Sunshine stands behind our work and helps you through the process every step of the way.

Don’t let your client’s time or location be an issue as to why you close. Time is money, so getting the job done right, on schedule, is key to customer happiness, as well as keeping things in order and simplified on your end. Oh, yeah, did we mention time is money and Sunshine Signing can save you a significant amount of time.

Sunshine can save you money. No more searching for a notary. No more scheduling. No more hassle. Our mobile notaries are scheduled by us, overseen by use and guaranteed by us.

It may be a routine closing for you, but for your buyer, it may be the most important day of their life. Sunshine’s notaries treat every signing like it is.

If you are in our area, our notaries can sign your document in our beautiful office located in Hudson, FL at 13939 Lakeshore Blvd. Hudson, FL 34667.

Don’t forget you are always mobile and always online with Sunshine.

Sunshine Signing Service

Your Nationwide Notary Signing Service

Increase your efficiency and bottom line with Sunshine’s Mobile Notary Services and Online Notary Services. Sunshine is always there when you need us.

Or Call us at (727) 817-0000

Three Reasons Neighbors Use a Notary

It might sound a little weird, but here are just a couple of reasons neighbors might use a notary. Notaries aren’t just for business, they are for individuals as well. And there are some pretty good reasons two neighbors might need a notary, or a mobile notary to protect themselves.

Hold Harmless Agreements

They sound harmless, but they keep everyone protected in a case of liability regarding a neighbor’s activities.

A hold harmless agreement is a legal agreement between parties that states that one party will not hold the other liable for risk. Hold harmless agreements typically apply to physical damage or risk.

ContractsCounsel

Okay, a couple of quick examples.

Hold Harmless for Potential Work on Areas That Cover Both Properties.

I want to do some work on some trees that just happen to be on my property line. I don’t plan to go on my neighbor’s property, but it is possible I will. Or maybe I know I will go onto their property.

Should my neighbor’s, and their home insurance company, have to take the risk that I will get hurt on their property?

No.

When working on anything on the property line it is best to get a hold harmless agreement, notarized by a notary like one from Sunshine. This way we can protect ourselves not just against injury, but also our personal property. There will be no disputes during or after this job.

Both sides have come to agreement and know what is expected.

Why Neighbors Need a Notary

Hold Yourself Harmless Because of Kids Toys

Or let’s posit another hypothetical scenario. You just built the most awesome skate ramp for your children, and of course every other kid in the neighborhood wants in on the action. Who wouldn’t.

But, injuries happen, from cuts and scrapes all the way to full on broken bones. And forbid one sneaks on without proper safety equipment, like a helmet.

Your kids won’t think it is cool, but it only protects you. Instead of a looming disaster it becomes ride at your own risk. Your neighbor takes on the liability.

The Party of End All Parties

This is all me.

Maybe your neighbor throws a huge party, maybe for a real big football game. And you give him access to use your street, maybe a little grass before the sidewalk.

Then someone runs over your flowers, another hits a decorative fence, while a third razes some of your grass to bare ground.

Brutal.

A Hold Harmless is for both parties. You can give someone right to park, without giving up the right to protect your personal property. If people fall outside this agreement, your rights are protected, just like your neighbors are by letting them park there in the beginning.

I know some of these seem insignificant, but anything becomes significant when it involves legal ramifications.

Don’t leave things to chance.

Please remember we are not lawyers. None of this is meant as legal advice. We recommend you speak to an Attorney in your are to determine laws in your area.

Sunshine Signing Service

Your Nationwide Notary Signing Service

Increase your efficiency and bottom line with Sunshine’s Mobile Notary Services and Online Notary Services. Sunshine is always there when you need us.

Or Call us at (727) 817-0000

Living Wills and the Mobile Notary

It’s a subject we don’t want to think about, but eventually we have to, Living Wills. Hopefully we all have our affairs in order, but sometimes we don’t. We are hesitant to sound crass, but Sunshine Signing is there for you whenever you need to get your affairs in order.

What is a Living Will?

If you’re either unconscious or otherwise unable to communicate, a living will tells others what treatments you’d like—or want to avoid. Typically, a living will comes into play when you’re no longer able to participate in decision-making and hope to prevent the prolonging of an inevitable death through artificial means.

The Balance

Living wills are one of the most serious documents you need. They are often accompanied by a Durable Power of Attorney. You designate someone to make decisions for you through a Power of Attorney and specify the type of decisions they are allowed to make.

A living will does not take effect if you have a temporary injury. For example you took a shot to the head an received a serious concussion. Maybe from something like a car accident or falling off a bicycle. You make decisions about potential end-of-life services, considering the extremely limited options available.

Living Wills and the Mobile Notary

Are There Any Rules for Living Wills?

As a precaution, there may be some rules in your state regarding a living will. But most states will recognize them if you are across state borders. There are places online where you can download templates for a living will. Still, we would be careful to make sure that it comes from an attorney, and not just some random person.

You need to address all potential circumstances in your living will for it to be effective when needed. It would probably be wise to consult a lawyer. At the very least we recommend you check several websites. At least one or two that are relevant to your state. You need to make sure everything you are required to have is there.

When Should I Get a Living Will?

We would recommend as soon as possible, unless you are under the age of eighteen, or do not have a legal guardian. Make sure your family and loved ones know of your intent. Arguments among members is the last thing in the world you want in your time of need. And, unfortunately, they are known to get ugly.

Being pro-active is the best way to go. Unfortunately, none of us can predict the future. None of us can truly know or predict what life has to throw at us. We all wish for the best, Sunshine wishes the best for you, but we all must be prepared for any situation.

Why do I need a Mobile Notary?

The signer must sign a living will document(s) in person. An online notary is not able to perform those duties. A notary must be present, and in many cases the best choice is to have a mobile notary who can come to you.

In the worst situations, time is of the essence. Sunshine Signing can have a notary to you in four hours or less, even if you live in a rural location. You can rest assured our mobile notaries are the most professional in the business. And they work hard to ensure every signing is the most important signing they’ve ever done. Because they understand how important it is to you.

Everyone is Important to Sunshine

Sunshine is there for you in the best of times and the worst of times. You need someone who you can trust in any situation. Our mobile notaries can meet you just about anywhere, from your home, or god forbid, the hospital.

If you don’t have a living will, and probably a durable power of attorney to accompany it, now is the time to take action. And when you need it notarized, just remember, Sunshine is there for you.

Sunshine Signing Service

Your Nationwide Notary Signing Service

Increase your efficiency and bottom line with Sunshine’s Mobile Notary Services and Online Notary Services. Sunshine is always there when you need us.

Or Call us at (727) 817-0000

Why You Need Both Online Notaries and Mobile Notaries

As the world appears to be heading more to remote notarizations, you may ask why you need both Online Notaries and Mobile Notaries? Don’t you wish you could just choose one and run with it?

In a quickly changing landscape it is understandable.

But, there are quite a few reasons that is not going to happen. And you need to understand the how’s and why’s that will affect your business. Or, why it does not have to be a big deal, because you have a partner at your side who will take that off of your plate. And let you focus on your core business.

Because, at the end of the day, we all want to focus on our core business, the part that drives the most revenue. And have a partner who can still give you a positive return on investment.

Not All Signings Will Be Remote

The laws are quickly changing, but some things will remain the same. At the end of the day, even once remote signings become more prevalent, some signings will still need to be done in person. You have attorney states, as well as certain types of signings, like living wills and wills, that will have to be done in person.

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Notarizing Someone’s Blood

We’ve seen some strange individual signings, but our tales of the bizarre has a new story. One of which a notary had to notarize someone’s blood for authenticity.

Wait, Did You Say Notarizing Someone’s Blood

This is already the talk of the skate board industry. Skating legend Tony Hawk had blood removed so it can be added to paint. The paint would be used on a limited line of skateboards.

We’re not talking about mortgage or title. The integrity of blood is on the line.

Those skateboards would then be sold at a high price to collectors of skateboards, as well as fans of bloody things.

We imagine the conversation went like this:

  1. Collect blood
  2. Mix blood into paint
  3. Paint neat designs with said blood.
  4. ???????
  5. PROFIT!

And at the end of the day, they needed a notary to certify the blood was authentic, and not some blood from someone pretending to be Tony Hawk.

But the real question is:

Did the notary ask for Tony’s signature in blood for their kid’s wall? We kid, we kid.

Notarizing Someone's Blood

It is All for a Good Cause

If we can get serious for a moment.

This limited edition of one hundred skateboards helps a couple of charities, not the new vampire skateboarding team.

Ordered by bottled water company Liquid Death, proceeds will go to 5 Gyres, as well as Tony’s personal charity, The Skateboard Project.

100 of the fully notarized and bloody skateboards will be sold for $500 apiece.

And that is the story of person who was notarizing someone’s blood.

Sunshine Signing Service

Your Nationwide Notary Signing Service

Increase your efficiency and bottom line with Sunshine’s Mobile Notary Services and Online Notary Services. Sunshine is always there when you need us.

Or Call us at (727) 817-0000

Notary Fees are Decreased in Mississippi

In a defeat to static notaries, Mississippi has passed a bill to lower notary fees in Mississippi.

The changes essentially make the maximum amount that can be charged for a signing to five dollars. That is five dollars a signature for documents notarized.

This may be a blow to storefront notaries, as the benefit of offering notarizations may have decreased as a different loss leader may offer more value.

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