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Ever found yourself staring at a stack of important papers, wondering if you really need a special stamp or signature to make them official? Well, you’re not alone! I’ve been there too, scratching my head over what exactly a notary does and why their role is so crucial. Let’s dive into the fascinating world of document authentication and unravel the mystery behind the notarization process. The Notarization Process Explained: What Happens and Why It Matters So, what’s this notarization process all about? Simply put, notarization is a way to make sure that documents are genuine and that the people signing them are who they say they are. Think of it as a trusted referee in the world of paperwork. When you get a document notarized, a specially authorized person verifies your identity, watches you sign the document, and then adds their official seal or stamp. Why is this important? Because it helps prevent fraud and ensures that documents hold up in court or business transactions. Whether you’re signing a contract, a power of attorney, or a real estate deed, notarization adds a layer of trust and security. Here’s a quick rundown of the steps involved: Verification of Identity - The notary checks your ID to confirm you’re really you. Willingness and Awareness - They make sure you’re signing voluntarily and understand what you’re signing. Document Review - The notary looks over the document to ensure it’s complete and ready. Signing in Presence - You sign the document right in front of the notary. Notary’s Seal and Signature - The notary adds their official stamp and signs the document. Easy, right? This process might sound simple, but it’s a powerful tool to keep your important papers safe and sound. Notarization process in action What is the Exact Meaning of Notary? Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter. What exactly is a notary? A notary is a public official appointed by the state to serve as an impartial witness during the signing of important documents. Their job is to prevent fraud and ensure that the signers are entering agreements knowingly and willingly. Think of a notary as a guardian of trust. They don’t give legal advice or decide if a document is good or bad. Instead, they focus on verifying identities, witnessing signatures, and keeping records. This role is especially important in places like Pierce and Thurston Counties, where busy professionals and businesses rely on quick, trustworthy notarization services. Here’s a fun fact: the role of notaries dates back to ancient Rome! They’ve been around for centuries, evolving with the times but always focused on authenticity and trust. Why You Might Need a Notary - Real-Life Examples You might be wondering, “When do I actually need a notary?” Great question! Here are some common scenarios where notarization is a must: Real Estate Transactions : Buying or selling a home? Your deed and mortgage documents usually need notarization. Power of Attorney : Giving someone the authority to act on your behalf? That document often requires a notary’s seal. Wills and Trusts : To make sure your final wishes are clear and legally binding. Business Contracts : Some agreements between companies or individuals need notarization to be enforceable. Loan Documents : Banks often require notarized signatures to protect against fraud. Imagine you’re a busy professional juggling meetings and deadlines. Having a mobile or online notary service can save you tons of time and hassle. Instead of hunting down a notary office, you can get your documents notarized right at your home or office. Convenience and peace of mind? Yes, please! Mobile notary service for busy professionals How to Choose the Right Notary Service for Your Needs Picking the right notary service can feel like a chore, but it doesn’t have to be. Here’s what to look for when choosing a notary: Convenience : Can they come to you? Mobile notaries are lifesavers for busy schedules. Availability : Do they offer flexible hours, including evenings or weekends? Experience : How long have they been in the business? A seasoned notary knows the ropes. Reputation : Check reviews and testimonials. Word of mouth is gold. Online Options : Some services offer online notarization, which is perfect if you’re tech-savvy or prefer to stay home. For folks in Pierce and Thurston Counties, Girl Friday Notary Services combines professionalism with a friendly, approachable style. Ia make the whole process smooth and stress-free. Tips to Prepare for Your Notarization Appointment To make your notarization experience as quick and painless as possible, here are some handy tips: Bring Valid ID : A government-issued photo ID like a driver’s license or passport is required. Don’t Sign Early : Wait to sign the document until you’re in front of the notary. Know Your Document : Read through it beforehand so you’re not caught off guard. Have All Parties Present : If others need to sign, make sure they’re there too. Ask Questions : If you’re unsure about anything, the notary can clarify the process (but remember, they don’t give legal advice). By following these simple steps, you’ll breeze through your appointment and get your documents notarized without a hitch. Wrapping It Up: Making Notarization Easy and Stress-Free At the end of the day, notarization is all about trust, security, and making sure your important documents are legit. Whether you’re handling personal matters or business deals, having a reliable notary on your side is a game-changer. If you’re in Pierce or Thurston Counties and want to skip the hassle, consider Girl Friday Notary Services for mobile or online notary services. It’s like having a paperwork superhero ready to swoop in whenever you need me! Remember, the next time you see that official stamp or seal, you’re witnessing a process that protects you and your interests. And hey, now you know exactly what’s going on behind the scenes. Notarization? Nailed it! If you want to learn more or schedule a convenient appointment, check out Girl Friday Notary Services , who’s ready to help you with all your document authentication needs. Girl Friday Notary Services Notarization may be boring, but I'm not!

Every now and then a question comes up that surprises people more than it surprises me. One of the most common is very simple. Do leases in Washington need to be notarized? The answer is sometimes, yes. Under RCW 59.18.210, any residential lease that lasts longer than 1 year must be in writing and notarized to be considered legally enforceable in Washington. Month to month leases or renewals under a year do not require notarization. However, once the lease term goes beyond the twelve month mark, the law requires a notary’s acknowledgment to make the agreement official. This extra step matters more than most people realize. Notarization confirms that everyone signing is who they say they are, understands what they are signing, and is doing so willingly. It also helps protect both the property owner and the tenant if a disagreement ever comes up later. A properly notarized lease is far easier to uphold in court or in any legal dispute because it has been verified by a commissioned notary. If you are a tenant signing a long term lease, it is important to make sure the document is notarized before you move in. If you are a landlord, property manager, or HOA representative, having a reliable notary available makes your process smoother, faster, and fully compliant with Washington law. I work with clients across Pierce, Thurston, and parts of Lewis County to make lease signings simple. My mobile notarization services allow you to choose a signing location that works best for you. That can be a property management office, community clubhouse, coffee shop, workplace, or your own home. For clients who are traveling, living out of town, or even outside the country, I offer secure Remote Online Notarization so the signing can be completed from anywhere. If you have a long term lease coming up or you are unsure whether your document needs to be notarized, reach out anytime. I am happy to answer your questions, help you stay compliant, and make the entire process easy and stress free. Serving Pierce, Thurston, and parts of Lewis Counties Flexible scheduling, online and mobile options, and pet friendly appointments are my specialty! ✨ GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES ✨ Notarization may be boring but I’m not!

There is a common misconception about what a notary actually does during an appointment. Many people sit down with a document in hand expecting explanations, clarifications, or a quick walk through of what everything means. It makes perfect sense. Legal documents can feel intimidating, especially when you are signing something important like a power of attorney, real estate papers, medical directives, or long term lease agreements. Here is the part that surprises most people. A notary is not allowed to explain or interpret your document. My role is to verify your identity, witness your signature, and make sure you are signing willingly and with full understanding. The goal is to protect both you and the integrity of the document. That means you need to understand it before we begin. If you ever sit down with a document and find yourself unsure about what it means or how it affects you, that is your signal to pause. Reach out to the person who prepared the document, ask questions, and get clarity. Once everything makes sense and you feel confident placing your signature on the page, then it is time to schedule your notarization. This step protects you more than anything else. It prevents mistakes, confusion, and the kind of regret no one wants to feel when dealing with major life decisions. Judges, attorneys, financial institutions, and government agencies expect documents to be signed knowingly and willingly. A proper notarization confirms that you understood what you signed, that you were not pressured, and that your identity was verified. When the front end is done correctly, the back end moves smoothly. When you are ready to sign, I make the process simple. I offer mobile notarization throughout Pierce, Thurston, and parts of Lewis County. I can meet you at your home, workplace, favorite coffee shop, title office, hospital, community clubhouse, or library. If you are traveling or currently living out of state or outside the country, I also provide secure Remote Online Notarization to complete your signing wherever you are. If you are ever unsure about when notarization is needed, what type of notarization is required, or how to prepare for the appointment, feel free to reach out. I am always happy to help you understand the next step so you feel informed, prepared, and confident long before the pen touches the paper. Serving Pierce, Thurston, and parts of Lewis Counties Flexible scheduling, online and mobile options, and pet friendly appointments are my specialty! ✨ GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES ✨ Notarization may be boring but I’m not!

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: Real Estate Transactions : Buying or selling property often requires notarized documents. Wills and Trusts : These legal documents need notarization to be valid. Power of Attorney : Granting someone the authority to act on your behalf typically requires notarization. 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: Verification of Identity : I’ll check your ID to confirm your identity. Review of Documents : We’ll go over the documents to ensure everything is in order. Signing : You’ll sign the documents in my presence. 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!

Most people think notarizing a document is simple. A quick stamp, a signed paper, and you are done. But behind that stamp is legal responsibility that carries real consequences. One mistake can not only ruin a notary’s career, it can also lead to lawsuits, financial damage, or even criminal charges. As a professional notary serving Washington State, I take this part of my job seriously. And for good reason. There are real cases involving real notaries who thought shortcuts or favors were no big deal. The results were devastating for them and the people they meant to help. Here are four true stories that show exactly why notary laws exist and why following them is not optional. 📝 Case 1. Parking Lot Deed Scam in Ohio A notary in Ohio agreed to notarize four property deeds in a parking lot. She had never seen the homeowners and took someone else’s word that the signatures were legitimate. Those same documents were used to steal the homes from their rightful owners. When the scam was exposed, the criminals went to prison and the notary was charged with four felony counts of tampering. She lost her notary commission and her business. The mistake. Not verifying identity and notarizing without the signers present. 📝 Case 2. The Disbarred North Carolina Attorney A North Carolina attorney who was also a notary became involved in two fraudulent notarizations. She notarized paperwork with signatures from people who never appeared before her. One of those documents allowed a house to be sold without the real heir’s permission. She said the mistakes were innocent. The court saw them as deliberate. She was disbarred, convicted, and forced to give up her law career. The mistake. Not requiring the signer to be in the room and ignoring warning signs. 📝 Case 3. Accepting a Photocopied ID in California A California notary accepted a photocopy of an ID instead of a real one. The signer was later exposed as an imposter committing mortgage fraud. The title company sued the notary for one hundred eighty thousand dollars. The case was eventually settled for twenty five thousand dollars, which still could have destroyed the notary financially if they did not have errors and omissions insurance. The mistake. Accepting a copy of an ID instead of verifying a valid, physical identification. 📝 Case 4. Missing Thumbprint, Six Figure Lawsuit Another notary in California was handling a real estate signing. California law requires a thumbprint for certain notarizations involving property. The notary failed to collect one. The signer was later revealed to be a con artist. The title company sued the notary for two hundred fifty thousand dollars because the missing thumbprint would have exposed the fraud. Errors and omissions insurance eventually covered fifty thousand dollars of the settlement. The mistake. Skipping a required step because it seemed minor. 💡 The Lesson Behind Every Case Notary work is not just stamping paper. Every notarization carries legal weight and responsibility. A notary who skips ID checks, ignores legal requirements, or rushes through an appointment is risking more than a mistake. They are risking their career, their reputation, and the safety of the people they serve. A good notary protects the public. A careless notary can help commit fraud without ever intending to. So if a notary asks to see your ID in person, requires a thumbprint, or refuses to notarize something that “seems harmless,” this is the reason. One tiny shortcut can destroy a life, a career, or someone’s home. 🔍 Need a Notary Who Follows the Rules Every Time? I am a mobile and online notary serving Washington State, including Pierce County, Thurston County, and parts of Lewis County. I follow every law and standard so your documents and your peace of mind stay fully protected. I am also pet friendly, flexible, and here to make the process calm, smooth, and professional. ✨ Girl Friday Notary Services Notarization may be boring but I'm not!

If you have heard the latest news about interest rates, you may already know that average mortgage rates have dipped into the low 6% range. Anytime rates shift, the real estate world responds, and people start wondering whether they should refinance, buy, sell, or just wait it out. If you are unsure what this rate drop means for you, here is a simple overview that breaks it down without the confusing lender jargon. 🏠 Thinking About Refinancing Your Mortgage? One of the first questions people ask when rates go down is whether it makes sense to refinance. Here is the truth. A lower interest rate can reduce your monthly mortgage payment and save you money over the life of the loan. However, refinancing is not free. There are closing costs, lender charges, appraisal fees, and sometimes title fees involved, which can add up quickly. Most reputable lenders agree that refinancing usually only makes financial sense if your current rate is at least one full percentage point higher than today’s rate. For example, if you are locked into 7% and the new rate is 6%, you might see meaningful savings. If your current rate is 6.5% and the new rate is 6%, the savings may not outweigh the cost unless you plan to stay in the home long enough to break even. Always ask your lender to calculate your break even point, which tells you how long it will take for your monthly savings to outweigh your refinancing costs. If the math does not make sense, it is better to wait. 🔑 Planning to Buy or Sell a Home Soon? Even a small rate drop can affect the real estate market. For buyers, lower rates can reduce your estimated monthly payment or allow you to qualify for a slightly higher purchase price. That means more homes within budget and a little extra breathing room on monthly bills. For sellers, lower rates tend to bring more buyers into the market. When buyers feel more confident that they can afford a home or secure an approval, more offer activity happens and inventory moves more quickly. That said, interest rates are just one part of the picture. You still have to consider factors like home pricing, inventory levels, condition of the property, and what is happening in your local market. A great rate does not guarantee a successful sale and a slightly higher rate does not mean you should not buy. It all comes down to personal timing and long term plans. ⚠️ Quick Disclaimer I am not a mortgage professional or a real estate agent. The purpose of this blog post is to help you understand the general landscape, not to give personalized financial advice. Always speak with a licensed mortgage lender, financial advisor, or real estate agent before making decisions about home loans or property transactions. ✨ Need a Notary During Your Next Real Estate or Refinance Signing? No matter what rates do, one thing in real estate does not change. Official documents still need to be signed, dated, and notarized before anything becomes valid. That is where I come in. I am a mobile and online notary based in Washington, serving Pierce County, Thurston County, and parts of Lewis County. Whether you are signing refinance documents at your kitchen table, purchasing a home at a title company, or planning an estate with your attorney, I make the notarization process convenient, friendly, accurate, and yes, fully pet welcoming. ✨ Girl Friday Notary Services Notarization may be boring but I'm not! If you need a trustworthy notary with flexible scheduling and a calm approach during stressful moments, I am ready when you are.

If you have recently found yourself struggling to keep up with mortgage payments, you may have seen the term loan modification pop up in your search for answers. If you are not totally sure what it means, you are not alone. Many homeowners are confused about what loan modifications really are and how they work, especially when compared to refinancing or other options. Let’s walk through the most common questions people ask when they are considering a loan modification and looking for ways to keep their home and protect their financial future. ❓ What Is a Loan Modification? A loan modification is when your mortgage lender agrees to change the terms of your existing home loan so it becomes more affordable. Instead of starting fresh with a new mortgage, you keep your current loan but adjust it in ways that reduce the monthly payment or make repayment more realistic for your situation. A modification may include: • Lowering your interest rate • Extending the loan repayment period • Changing the type of loan • Adding overdue payments to the end of the loan term The goal is simple. Make the loan manageable so you can stay in your home. ❓ How Is a Loan Modification Different From Refinancing? Refinancing replaces your current mortgage with a completely new one. That usually means new terms, new closing costs, and qualifying again based on income, credit, and home equity. A loan modification keeps the original loan in place but changes the terms so it works better for your current financial situation. There is no new loan. No new lender. Just an adjustment to the one you already have. Because of that, loan modifications are often available to people who do not qualify for refinancing due to a drop in credit score, change in employment, or lack of equity. ❓ When Should Someone Consider a Loan Modification? A loan modification may be an option if any of the following sound familiar: • You lost a job or your income has been reduced • You experienced major medical expenses • You went through a divorce or separation • Your adjustable rate mortgage suddenly increased • You fell behind on payments and foreclosure seems possible • You want to stay in your home but cannot keep up with the current payment Loan modifications are often used as a last step before foreclosure. They are designed to help homeowners stay in their homes while catching up financially. ❓ Do Loan Modifications Hurt Your Credit? There may be a credit impact. However, the damage from a loan modification is typically much lower than the damage caused by foreclosure, serious delinquency, or bankruptcy. A loan modification can often be seen as a financial recovery step, which is much better for long term credit health than missing payments month after month. Think of it as a protective move, not a perfect one. It trades a lower short term credit score for the chance to keep your home and prevent something much worse. ❓ Do Loan Modification Documents Need to Be Notarized? Yes. In most cases, lenders require that loan modification agreements be signed in front of a notary before they are accepted. This verifies your identity and confirms you understand and agree to the terms of the change. That is where I come in. ✨ Affordable Notarization for Loan Modifications As a mobile and online Notary Public in Washington, I regularly help homeowners complete loan modification paperwork. Because I understand this is often a financially stressful moment, I charge a flat fee of $100 for loan modification notarizations. That covers every signature on the loan mod package. Travel fees may still apply based on location. No hidden fees. No per page charges. Just clear, friendly service during a difficult time. ✨ Girl Friday Notary Services Notarization may be boring but I am not Mobile and online notary serving Pierce, Thurston, and parts of Lewis Counties. Pet friendly. Flexible scheduling. Compassionate support when it matters most. Have questions about notarizing a loan modification or ready to book an appointment? I am here and ready to help.

When most people think about notary fraud, they picture forged signatures or maybe a botched ID check. What they do not imagine is murder, stolen property, or families devastated by crimes that could have been stopped with a simple refusal to notarize. But that is the reality. Notary fraud is not just a paperwork issue. It is a real threat that has destroyed lives and careers and it is often the result of someone bending a rule, skipping a step, or trying to “be helpful.” Below are three true crime cases that every notary and every person signing important documents should know about. Because the consequences of not following notary law can go far beyond a lawsuit or a revoked commission. 1️⃣ The Disappearance of Irene Silverman (1998) Irene Silverman was a wealthy New York socialite whose life took a tragic turn when a mother and son con team, Sante and Kenneth Kimes, targeted her. Their plan was to impersonate Silverman, steal her multi million dollar property, and vanish with the proceeds. They met with two notaries. • One notary refused because the identification did not seem legitimate • The other agreed to notarize blank affidavits without the signer present The second notary’s failure to follow the law became a link in the chain that allowed the Kimes duo to steal and eventually murder Silverman. The notary was not charged with the crime, but their lapse in judgment played a direct role in the scheme. 2️⃣ The Yacht Murder of Thomas and Jackie Hawks (2004) Retired couple Thomas and Jackie Hawks decided to sell their yacht and start a new chapter in life. They met with buyer Skylar Deleon, a former child actor turned criminal. A notary later claimed to have met with the couple and notarized the yacht transfer paperwork. That turned out to be a lie. The Hawks had already been murdered at sea by Deleon and his accomplices, who tied them to an anchor and threw them overboard. The forged, falsely notarized documents were an attempt to steal the yacht and cover up the crime. That fraudulent notarization became key evidence in the investigation. Deleon is now on death row. The notary was not physically involved in the killing, but her dishonesty became part of the case forever. 3️⃣ The Palm Springs Murder of Cliff Lambert (2008) Palm Springs resident Cliff Lambert was murdered by people he trusted, including a real estate broker named David Replogle. Their goal was to take control of Lambert’s home and assets. Posing as Lambert, Replogle signed and notarized property documents in front of a notary and even left a thumbprint in the notary’s journal. Later, he tried to steal the journal to cover his tracks. That attempt failed and the notary’s journal became critical evidence that helped convict him. This case proves why accurate journals and identity checks are not optional. They can help solve crimes and protect victims long after the document is signed. ⚠️ The Modern Threat: AI and Identity Fraud If these cases feel like something from the past, consider this. Criminals today are using artificial intelligence to create fake IDs, synthetic voices, and video deepfakes. The Federal Trade Commission is actively working to regulate AI impersonation because fraudsters now have digital tools that make deception even easier. That means notaries must be even more vigilant. Remote online notarization, electronic ID verification, and biometric authentication are becoming essential parts of fraud prevention. 💡 The Real Lesson A notary’s best defense against fraud is not complicated. It is consistency. • Require personal appearance every time • Verify identity properly • Document every act in a detailed journal • Trust your instincts and stop the signing if something feels wrong Every tragedy in these stories began with a notary who bent the rules. That is why following state law is not paperwork or protocol. It is protection. Notary fraud is real. It involves real people. And it carries real consequences. ✨ Girl Friday Notary Services Notarization may be boring but I'm not! Professional, pet friendly, mobile and online notary serving Pierce, Thurston and parts of Lewis Counties in Washington State. Here to make the legal parts of life calm, safe, and honest.

Life has a way of piling on the stress. Between work deadlines, bills, medical decisions, family matters, and everything else on the never ending to do list, it is no surprise that most people feel overwhelmed far too often. But there is something that can calm the chaos better than a mindfulness app, a new planner, or another deep breathing exercise. Pets. Especially those with four paws and a wagging tail. Science now confirms what pet lovers already knew in their bones. Dogs and cats are incredibly effective stress relievers. ✅ How Pets Help Us De-Stress Here is what research and real life tell us about the mental health perks of pets: • They lower cortisol, the hormone that rises when we feel stressed • They increase oxytocin, the hormone that helps us feel safe and connected • They get us moving with walks, playtime, and affectionate nudges toward the outdoors • They ease loneliness and help us bond with other humans too • They give structure to our day and purpose when life feels unstable This is why dogs work in hospitals, schools, and even courtrooms. Pets have a built in ability to provide comfort when we need it the most. 🐾 What Does This Have to Do With Notarization? Quite a lot. I am a mobile and online notary public in Washington. That means I often walk into big life moments with my clients. Emotional ones. Life changing ones. Stressful ones. I help people sign documents related to: • Estate planning • Home sales or purchases • Divorce • Financial decisions • Health care directives and powers of attorney These appointments are not casual. They are often filled with complicated feelings. Sometimes grief. Sometimes fear. Sometimes relief. And when a dog wanders over to say hello or a cat hops into someone’s lap during the signing, the entire mood in the room shifts. Shoulders relax. Breathing slows. Someone smiles for the first time all day. That is why Girl Friday Notary Services is intentionally pet friendly. Your dog or cat is never a bother. They are an important part of the calm. They help people feel grounded when the paperwork feels heavy. 🐕 Need a Notary Without the Stress? If you have important documents to sign and want someone who understands the emotional side of the process as much as the technical one, I am here to help. I offer: • Mobile notary appointments in Pierce County, Thurston County, and parts of Lewis County • Remote Online Notarization appointments using a secure video platform • Flexible scheduling • A welcoming approach to your pets I bring the notary stamp. You bring the furry stress relief. ✨ Girl Friday Notary Services Notarization may be boring but I'm not! Professional and pet friendly notary services throughout Washington State both online and in person. Ready when you are. 🐾 Looking for a notary who smiles when the dog jumps in your lap during the signing I am only a message away.

If you are finding it harder and harder to keep up with your mortgage payments, you are not alone. Life changes fast. A sudden job loss, medical emergency, divorce, reduced work hours, or an unexpected increase in your adjustable rate mortgage can turn a previously manageable payment into a serious financial challenge. Many homeowners in Washington believe their only options are to refinance or face foreclosure. But there is a third option that could help you stay in your home and work toward stability. It is called a loan modification , and it may be the solution you have been looking for. ✅ What Is a Loan Modification? A loan modification happens when your mortgage lender agrees to change the terms of your current loan so that your monthly payment becomes more affordable. Unlike refinancing, a loan modification does not replace your loan with a new one. You keep the same loan, but your lender adjusts it so you can manage the payment more comfortably. Common changes might include: • Lowering your interest rate • Extending the length of your loan • Adding missed payments to the end of the loan • Temporarily reducing the amount you owe each month The goal is simple and powerful. Keep you in your home and help you avoid foreclosure. ✅ Who Should Consider a Loan Modification? You might want to ask about a modification if: • You are behind on payments and worried about losing your home • Your income has dropped and you do not qualify for a refinance • You want to stay in your home and avoid the credit damage of foreclosure • You no longer qualify for a refinance due to credit or equity issues • You need immediate relief and a more affordable payment plan The qualification for most loan modifications is based less on credit and more on whether you can afford the adjusted payment going forward. ✅ How To Get Started Contact your mortgage servicer directly and ask if they have a loan modification program. Most major lenders do, especially when homeowners experience financial hardship. You may need to provide: • Proof of income • A written explanation of your financial hardship • Monthly list of expenses • Recent bank statements • Tax records or pay stubs Once approved, your lender will send you official loan modification documents that often require notarization to finalize. That is where I come in. ✨ Need Loan Modification Documents Notarized? I am a Washington State mobile and online notary who regularly assists homeowners during this process. Since finances are often tight in these moments, I charge a flat fee of 100 dollars for loan modification notarization. That covers every signature required. Travel fees may still apply depending on your location. No confusion. No extra fees. Just friendly, professional support during a tough season. ✨ Girl Friday Notary Services✨ Notarization may be boring but I'm not! Serving Pierce, Thurston, and parts of Lewis Counties with mobile and online notary appointments. Pet friendly. Flexible scheduling. Compassionate and confidential service. If you need help notarizing your loan modification or have questions about the process, I am here when you need me.

Online notarization is one of the most convenient ways to get your important documents signed and sealed without leaving your home or office. But just like an in-person appointment, a little preparation can make the process smoother, faster, and less stressful. Here’s how to get ready so your online notarization goes off without a hitch. 1. Confirm the Receiving Party Will Accept an Electronic Notarization This is the very first step. Even though Remote Online Notarization (RON)  is legal in Washington State, not every organization, court, or agency will accept an electronically notarized document. Pro tip:  Contact the recipient in advance to confirm they will accept an electronic notarization, especially for out-of-state or international use. 2. Have Your Document Ready Make sure your document has no blanks , except for the spaces where you and the notary will sign. Once it’s complete, save it as a PDF file  and email it to your notary in advance. This allows the notary to upload it into their secure online notarization platform  so it’s ready to go at the start of your appointment. 3. Use a Valid, Government-Issued Photo ID RON requires state-approved identity verification , so you’ll need a current, government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport. The platform will scan and verify your ID before the notarization begins. 4. Test Your Technology You’ll need: A computer, tablet, or smartphone with a working camera and microphone A stable internet connection A quiet, well-lit space where you can be clearly seen and heard If possible, test your setup before the appointment so there are no surprises. 5. Know Who Needs to Be Present If your document requires witnesses (like certain wills or powers of attorney), make sure they are present in the same online session and ready with their IDs. Washington allows remote witnesses, but they must follow the same verification process as you. 6. Follow the Notary’s Instructions Your notary will guide you step-by-step through the signing and notarization process. During the appointment, you’ll sign electronically in the secure platform, and the notary will apply their electronic seal and signature. The bottom line: A little preparation goes a long way toward making your online notarization quick, easy, and stress-free. Confirm the recipient’s requirements, have your document and ID ready, check your tech, and be prepared to follow the notary’s guidance. If you’re ready to experience the convenience of online notarization done right, I can help you through every step. ✨ GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES Notarization may be boring, but I’m not!

Online notarization might sound like something out of a futuristic sci-fi movie, but here in Washington State, it’s real, legal, and secure. Still, I hear plenty of myths floating around and some of them are stopping people from using a service that could save them a lot of time and stress. Let’s clear the air. Myth #1: Online notarization isn’t legal in Washington Wrong. Remote Online Notarization (RON)  has been legal in Washington State since 2020 under RCW 42.45.280. It follows strict state-approved procedures to ensure your documents are valid and enforceable. When done correctly, an online notarization holds the same legal weight as one done in person. Myth #2: It’s not secure Actually, online notarization uses multi-layer identity verification , secure video conferencing, and encrypted document handling. Every session is recorded and stored according to state law, which makes it more traceable than a traditional in-person notarization. Myth #3: You need fancy tech to make it work Nope. If you can do a video call, you can complete an online notarization. All you need is a smartphone, tablet, or computer with a camera, plus a reliable internet connection. I walk my clients through the process step-by-step, so even the least “techy” person can breeze through it. Myth #4: It’s only for certain types of documents Many people think online notarization is only for real estate closings or business contracts. In reality, I notarize all kinds of documents online, from powers of attorney to affidavits, travel consent forms, and yes, even wills, as long as Washington law allows it. For wills, witnesses can also appear online in the same secure session, provided the requirements of RCW 11.12.020 are met. Why choose online notarization with Girl Friday Notary Services? Convenience  – No travel, no waiting, no rushing to beat closing hours. Security  – State-approved platforms keep your information safe. Flexibility  – I offer evening, weekend, and even holiday appointments. Pet-friendly (yes, even online)  – Your dog can totally join the Zoom if they want. Frequently Asked Questions About Online Notarization in Washington State Q: Is online notarization accepted everywhere? A: Not always. While a document notarized online in Washington is generally recognized in other states that accept notarizations from outside their jurisdiction, I always recommend confirming with the person or entity receiving your document before proceeding. This is especially important for out-of-state or international transactions. Q: Can a will be notarized online in Washington? A: Yes. Washington allows wills to be notarized through Remote Online Notarization, and witnesses can appear online in the same secure session. The will must still meet the legal standards for validity, including witness requirements, and the notary must follow all RON procedures under state law. Q: How do you verify my identity online? A: I use secure, state-approved identity proofing, which includes credential analysis of your ID and dynamic knowledge-based authentication questions that only you should be able to answer. Q: How long does an online notarization appointment take? A: Most appointments take under 30 minutes from start to finish, sometimes less if you have done an online appointment before and know how to get through the KBA and ID verification. Q: Is my information safe during online notarization? A: Yes. All sessions are encrypted, recorded, and stored securely for the period required by Washington law. No one can access your documents or video session without proper authorization. The bottom line:  Online notarization isn’t just a modern convenience; it’s a secure, efficient, and fully legal way to get your important documents handled without leaving your home or office. Just remember to check in advance that the receiving party will accept an electronically notarized document. ✨ GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES Notarization may be boring, but I’m not!