What I Legally Cannot and Will Not Do as Your Notary

Let’s be real. To many people, notarizing a document looks like a quick stamp and a signature. But in reality, notarization is a legal process with strict rules designed to prevent fraud, protect identities, and uphold the integrity of important transactions.

As a Washington State notary, I take my job seriously, and that means there are some things I am legally not allowed to do. Even in a rush. Even if the pressure is on.

Here are four things I absolutely cannot and will not do during a notarization:

❌ I cannot falsify information on a notary certificate

This includes changing the date, listing someone as present when they were not, or “adjusting” details to help something go through. Even small tweaks count as fraud. If I complete a certificate, every part of it must reflect the truth.

❌ I cannot notarize a document without the signer present

No signer, no notarization. Whether it is in person or through a legal remote online notarization session, I must witness the person sign. This protects the integrity of the document and helps ensure no one is signing under false pretenses or without consent.

❌ I cannot let anyone else use my notary seal

My seal is mine alone. That means no one else, not even a coworker or family member, can stamp something for me. It is legally tied to my identity and must be kept secure at all times.

❌ I cannot overcharge beyond Washington State limits

The state-mandated maximum fee for notarization is fifteen dollars per notarized signature. I am allowed to charge a fair travel fee if it is agreed upon ahead of time. If you ever have questions about pricing, I will always be upfront and transparent.

These are not just technicalities. These rules exist to protect everyone involved. Whether we are handling a power of attorney, a real estate transfer, or something more routine, I am committed to doing things the right way every time.

So if I ever pause to double check a detail or ask for something to be corrected, it is not personal. It is professional.

✨ GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES

Notarization may be boring, but I’m not!

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