General Notary FAQs | Common Notarization Questions Answered

General Notary Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What documents do you notarize?

We notarize a wide variety of documents for both individuals and businesses. As a Notary Public, our role is to verify identity, witness signatures, and complete the notarial certificate—not to determine the content of the document.

Common documents we notarize include:

  • Power of Attorney (POA)
  • Wills & Trust documents (when notarization is required)
  • Real Estate & Loan Signing documents
  • Affidavits & Sworn Statements
  • Contracts & Agreements
  • Parental Consent forms (travel/medical)
  • Vehicle title transfers (non-title issuing states or supporting docs)
  • School and employment forms
  • I-9 Employment Verification forms (as an authorized representative, not a notarial act)

Important to Know:
  • The document must be complete and ready for notarization (no blank spaces unless instructed).
  • You must present valid, government-issued photo ID.
  • The signer must be present (in-person or online) at the time of notarization.
  • We cannot choose or prepare documents or provide legal advice. If you're unsure what you need, consult an attorney or the requesting agency.
Not sure if your document qualifies?
No problem—reach out before booking. We’re happy to review and guide you on whether your document can be notarized and what type of notarization may be required.

What documents cannot be notarized?

There are certain situations and documents that a Notary Public cannot notarize. These restrictions are in place to protect all parties and ensure the notarization is legally valid.

We cannot notarize:

1. Incomplete Documents
  • Documents with blank spaces or missing key information
  • Forms that are not fully filled out (unless blanks are meant to be completed later and allowed)

2. Documents Without the Signer Present

  • The signer must appear in person or via an approved online notarization session
  • No exceptions—even for family or business associates

3. Documents Without Proper Notarial Wording

  • If the document does not include a notarial certificate (acknowledgment or jurat), we cannot proceed until the correct certificate is provided or selected by the signer
  • We cannot choose for you if it would be considered legal advice

4. Copies of Certain Official Records

  • Birth certificates
  • Death certificates
  • Marriage certificates
  • Court-issued documents
    👉 These must be obtained from the issuing agency (not notarized copies)

5. Documents Requiring Legal Advice or Preparation

  • If you need help choosing, completing, or understanding the document
  • Notaries cannot draft documents or advise on legal content

6. Situations Involving Coercion, Confusion, or Incompetence

  • If the signer appears unwilling, pressured, or does not understand what they are signing
  • If the signer cannot communicate or lacks mental awareness

7. Documents with Signature Issues

  • If the document is already signed and requires an oath (jurat) but was not signed in front of the notary
  • If the name on the document does not reasonably match the ID presented

8. The Notary Has a Conflict of Interest

  • Documents where the notary has a financial or beneficial interest
  • Notarizing your own signature is not allowed
Pro Tip:

If you’re unsure about your document, send it over before your appointment. A quick review can save you time and ensure everything is ready for a smooth notarization.


What do I need to get started?

To get started with my notary services, please have the following ready:

  • Completed Documents: Ensure your document is filled out (except for the signature lines you’ll sign in my presence).

  • All Signers Present: Everyone signing the document must be present at the time of notarization, along with any required witnesses.

  • Valid Identification: Each signer and witness must present valid, unexpired identification.

  • Witnesses (if required): Some documents may require witnesses in addition to the notary. Please have them available, or I can provide witnesses for a small fee.


What if my driver’s license is expired?

If your driver’s license is expired, don’t worry! In Florida, I can still accept it as long as the issue date is within five years of today’s date.


What if my driver’s license was issued more than five years ago?

If your license was issued more than five years ago, I can still verify your identity using the credible witness method. This involves two individuals who personally know you (and are not listed in or benefiting from the document). They’ll each sign a sworn statement confirming your identity and show their own valid IDs.


What other forms of ID can I use?

Besides a driver’s license, I can accept several other forms of identification, including:

  • U.S. or foreign passports (with proper stamps)

  • State-issued ID cards

  • U.S. military IDs

  • Veteran Health IDs

  • U.S. Permanent Resident (Green) Cards

If you’re unsure whether your ID qualifies, feel free to contact me before your appointment and I’ll confirm what’s acceptable.


What if all signers can’t be present?

All signers must appear before me to have their signatures notarized. If someone can’t attend, I can notarize for those who are present, and the others can schedule a separate appointment or use another notary for their portion.


What if my document requires witnesses?

If your document requires witnesses, they must be disinterested parties—not family members or individuals named in the document.
If you don’t have witnesses available, I can provide them for an additional fee. My witnesses meet all legal requirements to ensure proper document execution.


What if my document was emailed to me and I can’t print it?

No problem! I can print your document for you and have it ready for your appointment. If you need extra copies, I can provide those as well.


Can you scan and email my documents after notarization?

Yes, absolutely. I offer scanning and email delivery of your notarized documents so you’ll have a secure digital copy for your records or to send wherever it’s needed.


Can you fax my documents for me?

Yes, I can fax your documents for you after notarization.
This service is especially helpful if your recipient prefers faxed delivery or requires immediate transmission.
Please note that additional faxing fees may apply depending on the number of pages and the destination.


How can I securely send my documents to you?

You can safely and conveniently upload your documents through my secure document upload page:
🔒
https://www.belisenotary.com/secure-uploads

This page is fully encrypted to protect your personal information—so you don’t have to worry about emailing sensitive documents to the wrong person.
Once uploaded, your files are received directly and securely for your appointment.


What types of payments do you accept?

I accept cash, Zelle, and credit/debit cards for payment.
Please note: I do not accept Cash App or Venmo at this time.


How much does notary service cost?

I charge the Florida state-mandated fee of $10 per notarization.
Additional fees may apply for travel, witness services, document printing, faxing, or scanning.

For a complete breakdown of all service fees, please visit my
Notary Pricing Page
You can also contact me directly if you’d like a detailed estimate for your specific document or appointment needs.


How do I schedule an appointment?

Scheduling is quick and easy! You can:

📞 Call me to discuss your needs and book a time.
📧 Email me with details about your documents and preferred date/time.
💻 Book online through my website:
Schedule Appointment


Do I need an appointment, or can I walk in?

Appointments are required for all notary services.
I don’t accept walk-ins to ensure each client receives personal attention and to allow me to prepare your documents in advance.


Where are you located for in-office appointments?

My office is located in 1680 SW Bayshore Blvd #1003 Port St. Lucie Florida 34984
You’ll receive the full address and directions once your appointment is confirmed.


Do you offer online notarization?

Yes! I’m an approved Remote Online Notary (RON) in the state of Florida.
This allows you to have your documents notarized remotely through a secure video session and electronic signature platform—whether you’re in Florida or anywhere else in the world.

To learn more or schedule an online session, visit
belisenotary.com


What are your business hours?

B. Elise Notary Services LLC is open Monday – Friday from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM EST.
We offer flexible scheduling to accommodate your busy day — including evening appointments for mobile, online, or in-office notarizations.

Appointments outside these hours (after 8 PM EST or weekends) may be available by special request and subject to an after-hours fee.

👉 Book your appointment here: https://belisenotary.zohobookings.com