Notary FAQ — Common Questions About Notary & Apostille Services | Williams Notary

Question 1

What is a Notary Public?

Accepted Answer

A Notary is an official approved by the government to witness the signing of documents, administer oaths, and perform several other duties. A notary is usually hired in cases where a document is important and fraud is an issue. Notaries, however, do not provide legal advice.

Question 2

What should I bring when we meet?

Accepted Answer

All you need to bring is a current form of government-issued identification — such as a passport or driver's license. The documents to be notarized should also be ready to sign (do not sign them beforehand).

Question 3

What types of ID are acceptable?

Accepted Answer

Any current valid identification is acceptable, including: California Driver's License, California Identification Card, US Passport, US Military ID Card, Mexico Driver's License, Other State Driver's License or ID, Canada Driver's License, Foreign Passports stamped by USCIS, or two credible witnesses for a person who does not have a current ID.

Question 4

What is a Loan Signing Agent?

Accepted Answer

A Loan Signing Agent is a notary specifically experienced and trained to handle loan documentation. Loan documents are complicated and are often rejected if signed incorrectly — there is little-to-no room for error. A certified loan signing agent ensures every document is completed accurately the first time.

Question 5

Why would I need a Loan Signing Agent?

Accepted Answer

If a set of loan documents is rejected because of an incorrect signature or missing initials, your loan may take additional time for approval. In the time it takes to print a new set of documents and sign them, the interest on your loan is accruing. This is both a waste of time and money — a certified loan signing agent prevents these costly errors.

Question 6

Are you background screened and bonded?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and yes. All notaries in California are required to submit to a background screening administered by the Department of Justice and the FBI. A bond is also required. We are fully bonded and carry Errors & Omissions insurance for your protection.

Question 7

What is an Apostille and when do I need one?

Accepted Answer

An Apostille is a form of authentication issued to documents for use in countries that participate in the Hague Convention. You may need an Apostille if you are using a document internationally — such as for a foreign visa, international adoption, overseas employment, or foreign business transactions.

Question 8

How long does the Apostille process take?

Accepted Answer

Standard processing times vary by the issuing authority. We offer expedited California Apostille Certifications to help speed up the process. Contact us for current turnaround times and to discuss your specific needs.

Question 9

What is your service area?

Accepted Answer

We come to you at your home, office, job site, hospital, or any place that is most convenient for you. We primarily serve Moreno Valley and the surrounding Inland Empire, including Riverside, Perris, Hemet, San Bernardino, Corona, and more.

Question 10

What forms of payment do you accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept cash, check, all major credit and debit cards, PayPal, Venmo, and Zelle.

Question 11

How do I schedule an appointment?

Accepted Answer

You can call or text us, send a request via email, or fill out our online contact form on the Contact page. Same-day and next-day appointments are often available. Early morning and evening appointments are available on request.

Question 12

Do you offer jail or hospital notary services?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We provide notary services at correctional facilities and hospitals or care facilities. Please contact us in advance to coordinate scheduling and any facility-specific requirements.

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