Yes, A Notary Is A Notary

Yes, a notary is a notary, at least in Texas. Everyone has a different idea of what a notary is to them. I have a couple of thoughts on this.

If you are a commissioned notary you can perform whatever notarial acts are allowed by law in your state. You will find references to “notary signing agent,” “mobile notary,” etc. As long as you are a notary you can be a signing agent or a mobile notary.

Notary signing agent is a term used by real estate and title professionals to describe a notary who has had special training in executing previously prepared loan documents at a location other than the title office or other location occupied by the title company. This notary is usually also a mobile notary because the notary normally has to go to the signer’s location to execute the documents. Some states may require certification for a notary signing agent.

A notary may not have specific experience in processing loan packages but can do so just the same. If you follow the basic best practices for a notary, lack of experience shouldn’t matter. Read the document notarial certificates to determine the required execution method, identify the signer, determine that the signer is competent, get the proper signatures, be sure all of the blanks are filled in and follow the instructions to return the loan package to the appropriate party.

Agencies often prefer to work with a notary with experience in their specific field to ensure consistency and correctness because a person who has done a lot of them knows what to expect and is less likely to overlook something. But, a good notary will be able to do the same thing just by following normal notary procedures to ensure everything is in place.

A notary who chooses to go to the signer rather than have the signer come to the notary is considered a mobile notary. This is a convenience that comes at a price because not only will you have to pay for normal notary fees (allowed by your state) but you will also have other fees for travel etc. The notary should be able to tell you the fee specifics before you schedule an appointment.

Please also remember that the notary has not only the right but is obligated by law and in some instances, conscience to refuse any notarization that doesn’t appear to be on the up and up.