3 Questions You Should Never Ask a Notary in Washington State

As a Washington State notary public, my goal is to make your signing process smooth, stress-free, and 100% legal. But every so often, I’m asked questions that no notary can legally say “yes” to without breaking the law or putting your documents at risk.

If you want your notarization to be valid, enforceable, and safe from legal challenges, here are three questions you should never ask a notary, and why the answer will always be a firm “no.”

❌ 1. “I don’t have ID, can you just skip that part?”

Identification is non-negotiable. Washington State law requires proper, government-issued photo ID before a document can be notarized.

In some cases, if allowed by law, a credible witness may be used, but notarizing without verifying the signer’s identity is never an option. This rule exists to protect against fraud and to ensure the person signing is truly who they claim to be.

❌ 2. “I cannot be there, can you notarize it anyway as a favor?”

A notary must personally witness the signer signing the document — either in person or via a secure Remote Online Notarization (RON) session.

If you are not physically present or logged into a secure, state-approved online notarization platform with me, I cannot notarize your signature. This protects you, your document, and everyone involved from fraud and future legal disputes.

❌ 3. “I’m on a deadline, can you change the date for me?”

Changing the date on a notarial certificate is illegal in every state. The date I record must reflect the exact day the notarization occurs. Anything else is falsifying a legal document, which can lead to serious legal consequences for both you and the notary.

Why a Notary’s “No” Protects You

A trustworthy notary will always follow Washington State notary laws, even if it means saying no. My role is to protect:

• You — by making sure your signature is valid

• Your documents — by ensuring they meet legal requirements

• The notarization process — by upholding its integrity every single time

  
  

When a notary refuses to cut corners, they’re safeguarding your interests as much as their own.

Understanding the Importance of Notarization

Notarization is a crucial step in many legal processes. It adds a layer of security and trust to your documents. When you have a notary involved, it means that someone is verifying your identity and the authenticity of your signature. This can be especially important in transactions involving significant assets or sensitive information.

Common Scenarios Requiring Notarization

You might be wondering when you actually need a notary. Here are some common scenarios:

1. Real Estate Transactions: Buying or selling property often requires notarized documents.

2. Wills and Trusts: These legal documents need notarization to be valid.

3. Power of Attorney: Granting someone the authority to act on your behalf typically requires notarization.

4. Affidavits: These sworn statements often need a notary's seal.

   
   

How to Prepare for Your Notarization Appointment

Preparation can make your notarization appointment go smoothly. Here are some tips:

• Bring Proper ID: Always have your government-issued photo ID ready.

• Understand Your Documents: Know what you are signing and why.

• Be Present: Make sure you are physically present or logged into the secure online platform if you’re using RON.

  
  

What to Expect During the Notarization Process

When you arrive for your appointment, here’s what will typically happen:

1. Verification of Identity: I’ll check your ID to confirm your identity.

2. Review of Documents: We’ll go over the documents to ensure everything is in order.

3. Signing: You’ll sign the documents in my presence.

4. Notarization: I’ll complete the notarization process, adding my seal and signature.

   
   

Frequently Asked Questions About Notarization

What if I forget my ID?

Unfortunately, without proper identification, I cannot proceed with the notarization. It’s essential to have your ID with you.

Can I notarize a document from another state?

Yes, but it must comply with the laws of that state. It’s best to check the specific requirements beforehand.

How long does the notarization process take?

Typically, it takes about 15-30 minutes, depending on the number of documents and the complexity involved.

If you have questions about what can and can’t be notarized, or if you’re ready to schedule a compliant, professional notarization, I’m here to guide you through the process the right way.

✨ GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES

Notarization may be boring, but I’m not!