Search Results

As a Washington State notary, I meet many clients who are fully prepared in spirit but unknowingly make small mistakes that can delay or even prevent a successful notarization. These errors are usually easy to avoid, and a little preparation can go a long way. If you are planning to have something notarized, here are some of the most common mistakes I see and how you can steer clear of them. Mistake 1: Not bringing valid identification A current, government-issued photo ID is required for every notarization. That can be a driver’s license, state ID, or passport. If your name has changed and does not match what is on the document, bring proof of the name change so I can complete the notarization without delay. Mistake 2: Incomplete or inaccurate paperwork Before your appointment, review your document for blank spaces, missing fields, or any errors. I cannot notarize incomplete or incorrect documents. Taking a few minutes to double-check your paperwork can save everyone time. Mistake 3: Signing before your appointment Many documents must be signed in front of the notary. Unless you are specifically told to sign ahead of time, wait until we are face to face. If other people also need to sign, they must be present too. Mistake 4: Not knowing the type of notarization you need There are different types of notarizations, such as acknowledgments and jurats. I can explain what each one means, but I cannot choose for you. If you are unsure, ask the agency or person who gave you the document. Mistake 5: Forgetting witnesses or additional paperwork Some documents require witnesses or additional supporting paperwork. Please confirm those details in advance so everything can be completed during your appointment. Mistake 6: Overlooking Washington-specific laws Notary rules vary by state. As a Washington State notary, I follow the legal requirements specific to our state. This ensures your notarized documents are valid and accepted. Mistake 7: Not checking your notary’s credentials It is always a good idea to work with a commissioned and experienced Washington State notary. A professional notary will know how to protect your documents, follow proper procedure, and prevent costly mistakes. Make the Process Easy by Coming Prepared Getting something notarized does not need to be stressful. With a little preparation and the right guidance, the process can be quick, clear, and easy. Whether you need an affidavit, power of attorney, real estate document, or anything in between, I am here to help every step of the way. ✨ GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES Notarization may be boring, but I’m not! Serving Pierce, Thurston, and parts of Lewis Counties Flexible scheduling, online and mobile options, and pet friendly appointments are my specialty!

This is one of those updates I wish I did not have to make, but I believe in being transparent with every client I serve. Fuel prices have continued to rise this summer, and after doing my best to hold off, I have made the decision to adjust my travel fee. Starting immediately, my travel rate will increase from $0.75 per mile to $1.00 per mile. This small change helps me continue offering reliable, responsive mobile notary services throughout Pierce, Thurston, and parts of Lewis Counties. From meeting clients at their homes to hospitals, offices, or anywhere in between, I remain committed to providing convenient, professional service wherever you need me. I want you to know this is not a permanent increase. If fuel costs drop back down after the summer, I will absolutely revisit and re-evaluate the rate. My goal is always to keep things fair and accessible while continuing to deliver the high level of care and service you expect. Please note that this change only applies to mobile travel fees. My online electronic notarization fees will remain the same. Thank you for understanding and for continuing to support Girl Friday Notary Services. I value your trust more than I can say, and I am always here to help make the notarization process smooth and stress free. ✨ GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES Notarization may be boring, but I’m not! Serving Pierce, Thurston, and parts of Lewis Counties Flexible scheduling, online and mobile options, and pet friendly appointments are my specialty!

As a Washington State notary, my role goes far beyond witnessing signatures and applying a seal. At the heart of every appointment is something far more important - protecting the person behind the pen. A notarization is not just a legal formality. It is a safeguard against fraud, coercion, and confusion. That is why I take my responsibility seriously, especially when I sense that a signer may not be acting of their own free will. Recognizing When Something Feels Off Sadly, coercion happens more often than many people realize. These are some common settings where it can occur: • Elder care or assisted living facilities, where a parent may feel pressured by a relative to sign power of attorney or financial rights • Hospitals or rehab centers, where medication may affect judgment or awareness • Domestic relationships, where one partner may pressure or intimidate the other • Language barrier situations, where someone else speaks for the signer without clear explanation • Jail or incarceration settings, where inmates may be pressured to sign documents they do not understand What I Watch For As a notary, I am always paying close attention to the energy in the room. Some of the red flags I look for include: • The signer appears nervous, hesitant, or confused • Someone else tries to answer my questions on the signer’s behalf • I am not allowed to speak privately with the signer • The signer asks if they have to sign or looks for permission • The appointment feels rushed or emotionally charged When I see these signs, I slow everything down. If I believe that a signer is being coerced or does not understand what they are signing, I will not complete the notarization. My job is to protect everyone involved, even if that means walking away. Your Safety and Confidence Come First Every appointment is carefully documented in my notary journal, including any observations that protect both the signer and myself. I understand that documents like powers of attorney, real estate transfers, and estate planning paperwork are deeply personal and often high stakes. I approach every appointment with a clear focus on professionalism, compassion, and legal integrity. If I ask questions, take extra time, or seem a little cautious, it is because your trust and safety matter to me. I will always put the protection of my clients before convenience. You deserve to sign your documents with full understanding and complete confidence. And I am here to make sure that happens every single time. ✨ GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES Notarization may be boring, but I’m not! Serving Pierce, Thurston, and parts of Lewis Counties Flexible scheduling, pet friendly appointments, and a strong commitment to ethical service

I am beyond honored and excited to announce that Girl Friday Notary Services has been nominated for Best Woman‑Owned Service Business in Pierce County ! To be recognized alongside so many amazing businesses in our area is truly humbling, and I am deeply grateful for this opportunity. For those who don’t already know me, I’m Kendra, a retired Firefighter and EMT turned mobile and online notary. After serving my community for 25 years in the fire service, I wanted to continue making a difference and providing a service that goes beyond the surface. Becoming a notary felt like a natural fit, allowing me to help people when it matters most, whether it’s finalizing a home sale, signing a trust, or notarizing a medical or financial document. Why This Matters to Me To me, notarization is about more than stamps and signatures. It’s about building trust , making connections, and making sure every person feels confident and supported throughout the process. As a one‑woman business, I focus on quality over quantity and people over profits. I also understand that life doesn’t always happen between nine and five, which is why I’m available after hours and on weekends , offering mobile and online appointments for your convenience. I also have a soft spot for pets and I carry treats with me to appointments and love making friends with your furry family members. Helping you get your documents signed, sealed, and delivered doesn’t have to be boring or intimidating. In fact, I always say, “Notarization may be boring, but I’m not!”  Helping people, putting them at ease, and making a sometimes stressful process smooth and painless is truly what I love about this work. Help Me Win! If you’ve worked with me and felt cared for and supported, I’d be so grateful if you could vote for Girl Friday Notary Services  in the Best of Pierce County Awards. You can vote once a day until July 7 , and every click really does make a difference. It’s an incredible honor to be nominated, and with your help, I can continue doing what I love; serving this amazing community and showing that even a small, woman‑owned, pet‑friendly notary service can make a big impact. Thank you for trusting me to help with your important documents. Thank you for supporting a small, local, woman‑owned business. And thank you for allowing me to be a part of life’s biggest moments, one signature at a time. 👉 Vote Here : https://www.votepiercecounty.com/ With gratitude, Kendra Marroquin Owner, Girl Friday Notary Services Notarization may be boring, but I’m not! #BestOfPierceCounty #VoteOnceADay #GirlFridayNotary #TrustedNotary #WomanOwnedBusiness #PetFriendlyNotary #TacomaNotary #OlympiaNotary #MobileNotaryWA #BestInPierceCounty

This is a question I get all the time, and the answer depends on what kind of notarization your document requires. There are two common types of notarizations in Washington State: Acknowledgments and Jurats. And the rules are a little different for each. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS If your document requires an acknowledgment, you’re in luck because you can technically sign it before meeting with me. All I need is for you to appear in person, show proper ID, and confirm that you signed it willingly for the purposes stated in the document. Whether you signed it two minutes ago or last Tuesday, that’s totally fine. I do NOT need to see you physically sign it. Clue: Your document will say something like “acknowledged before me” if this is the type of notarization needed. JURATS If your document requires a jurat, then YES, you must sign it in front of me. No exceptions. Jurats are typically used for affidavits or sworn statements, and I’ll also need to give you an oath or affirmation. If you already signed it beforehand, we can work around that. You’ll just need to sign it again while I witness it, although this is not the ideal. Clue: The wording “subscribed and sworn to before me” means you’re looking at a jurat.   Best Practice Tip Even if your document allows it, the safest route is to wait and sign all legal documents requiring notarization in front of your notary. This ensures everything is done correctly, reduces the chance of confusion or delay, and keeps your paperwork airtight. Disclaimer: This post is for general informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal advice. If you are unsure about the type of notarization needed, please consult the agency requesting the document or a licensed attorney. Got a question about your document? Reach out anytime. I’m always happy to walk you through your options so you feel confident and prepared. GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES Notarization may be boring, but I’m not! #WAStateNotary   #MobileNotaryWA   #TacomaNotary   #OlympiaNotary   #KnowBeforeYouSign   #NotaryExplained   #NotaryPublic   #RealEstateNotary   #DocumentTips   #GirlFridayNotary   #TrustedNotary

And if you’re working hard to get your affairs in order, don’t overlook one powerful but simple step: NOTARIZATION. As a mobile notary and Certified Notary Trust Delivery Agent, I’ve seen firsthand how proper notarization can save families time, money, and stress. Here’s the scoop: In Washington State, wills are not required to be notarized. You just need two competent adult witnesses to make your will legally valid. But if you notarize your will, it becomes "self-proving". That means the court can accept it without tracking down your witnesses later, making probate faster and smoother. Who doesn’t want that? Other estate planning documents that typically require notarization include: Revocable Living Trusts – Avoid probate and must be properly executed. Durable Power of Attorney – Appoints someone to make financial or healthcare decisions. Advance Healthcare Directives – Includes living wills and medical powers of attorney. Real Estate Transfers – Such as Transfer on Death Deeds and Quitclaim Deeds. Why notarize? Verifies identity and willingness Helps prevent fraud and legal disputes Ensures legal compliance Adds peace of mind that your wishes are protected And the best part? I come to you. Whether you’re at home, in the hospital, your attorney’s office, or an assisted living facility, I bring the notary services to your door. Evenings and weekends included. When your legacy is on the line, don’t cut corners. Make sure your documents are properly executed and legally sound. GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES Notarization may be boring, but I’m not! #EstatePlanningWA   #CertifiedTrustDeliveryAgent   #MobileNotaryTacomaWA   #OlympiaNotary   #SelfProvingWill   #TrustNotaryWA   #DurablePowerOfAttorney   #AdvanceDirectiveWA   #NotaryInOlympiaWA   #ExpertNotary   #WAStateNotaryFees   #GirlFridayNotary   #PetFriendlyNotary

When you trust someone with your personal documents, identity, and legal affairs, you should know they’ve been properly vetted. That’s why criminal background checks are required annually for notaries in Washington State. This isn’t just a box to check. It’s a safeguard for you.  It confirms the notary has no disqualifying criminal history  It protects the public from fraud, exploitation, and abuse of authority  It helps maintain trust in the legal system and the integrity of notarized documents Whether you’re signing a power of attorney, a will, real estate forms, or a trust package, you deserve to work with someone who is both qualified and trustworthy. As a notary and Certified Trust Delivery Agent, I complete my background check every year; not just because it’s required, but because it’s the right thing to do. Serving Pierce, Thurston, and parts of Lewis County Flexible scheduling, including evenings and weekends Pet-friendly service always Girl Friday Notary Services Notarization may be boring, but I’m not! #BackgroundCheckedNotary   #WAStateNotary   #MobileNotaryTacomaWA   #OlympiaNotary   #TacomaNotary   #TrustedNotary   #CertifiedTrustDeliveryAgent   #NotaryInOlympiaWA   #NotaryTacomaWA   #EstatePlanningWA   #ExpertNotary   #GirlFridayNotary   #PetFriendlyNotary

Yep, notarizing your documents online is totally legal and fully approved in Washington State. No printing. No driving. No pants required. (Okay, maybe pants are a good idea, but I’m not here to judge.) Here’s how it works from start to finish: First, you email me a PDF of your document(s). I upload everything into my trusted RON platform, Blue Notary, and pre-tag the signature and notary spots to keep things smooth and efficient for your session. You’ll then receive an official email invite from Blue Notary with a link to join our notarization appointment. Before we can begin, you’ll go through a quick KBA (Knowledge-Based Authentication) and ID verification process. This step is required to definitively verify your identity and is what makes online notarization legally secure. Once verified, you and I meet in a secure virtual notarization environment-no printing, no driving, and no waiting in line. When it’s time to sign, you’ll create and adopt an electronic signature. I’ll then apply my electronic notary stamp and signature wherever required. The moment our session ends, Blue Notary automatically emails you a fully signed and notarized version of your documents. Remote online notarization is perfect for: Busy people who need flexibility Clients out of state or abroad Last-minute situations Anyone who just doesn’t want to leave the house or put on pants! As a Washington State commissioned notary and certified remote online notary, I make the process smooth, secure, and as painless as possible. You can be anywhere, as long as you have internet, ID, and a device with audio and video. RON is safe. It’s secure. And it’s one more way I make notarization easier for you. Girl Friday Notary Services Notarization may be boring, but I’m not! #RemoteOnlineNotary   #OnlineNotarizationWA   #BlueNotary   #GirlFridayNotary   #MobileNotaryWA   #TacomaNotary   #OlympiaNotary   #PetFriendlyNotary   #OnlineNotaryService   #TrustedNotary   #ExpertNotary   #WAStateNotary

Aside from dealing with the stress of losing your car and navigating the insurance chaos, there’s usually a stack of paperwork headed your way. And chances are, one or more of those documents may need to be notarized. Here’s when that might come up:  Power of Attorney - Your insurance company may need a notarized POA to transfer the title or handle DMV paperwork on your behalf.  Release of Interest - If you’re signing over ownership of the vehicle, this form sometimes requires notarization to be legally valid.  Settlement Documents - Some insurers require notarized signatures before they can issue payment. It’s one of those things no one thinks about until it’s suddenly urgent. That’s where I come in. As a mobile notary, I meet you wherever is most convenient, whether that's at home, at work, even at the auto body shop, and take care of your documents quickly and professionally. No confusion, no stress, just one less thing for you to worry about. Girl Friday Notary Services Notarization may be boring, but I’m not! #TotaledVehicle   #PowerOfAttorney   #ReleaseOfInterest   #GirlFridayNotary   #MobileNotaryWA   #TacomaNotary   #OlympiaNotary   #NotaryInTacoma   #TrustedNotary   #PetFriendlyNotary   #WAStateNotaryFees   #ExpertNotary

A quiet home. A stack of documents. A seller ready to sign. I arrived on time. The table was cleared. Pens were lined up with military precision. The signer greeted me with a handshake and a confident smile. But within minutes… something felt off. The documents were there. The ID was there. But the signature on the ID? It didn’t quite match the one on the documents. And the signer? Suddenly less confident. More nervous. Hands shaking. I asked a simple question. “Can you confirm your legal name as it appears on this document?” There was a pause. Too long. Then came the truth. He wasn’t the seller. He was the seller’s brother. The actual seller? Out of the country. And he “just figured it would be fine” if he signed for him. Spoiler alert: it was not fine. This is where the signing ended immediately. Because impersonating someone in a real estate transaction is fraud. And as a notary, it’s my legal and ethical duty to spot red flags, stop the process, and protect everyone involved, even if that means the deal comes to a screeching halt. Real estate transactions are high-stakes. One wrong signature can cost people their homes, their money, or worse. That’s why identity verification isn’t optional. It’s the foundation of trust. So if you’re closing a deal, buying, selling, or signing anything important, be the person who shows up honestly, with proper ID, and a real signature to match. Girl Friday Notary Services Notarization may be boring, but I’m not! #RealEstateNotary   #TrueNotaryTales   #GirlFridayNotary   #WAStateNotary   #MobileNotaryWA   #TacomaNotary   #OlympiaNotary   #NotaryWithBackbone   #TrustedNotary   #PetFriendlyNotary   #NotaryInTacoma   #FraudPrevention   #DatelineStyle

Earlier this week, I shared why networking is so important for small business owners. If you’re not already part of a networking group, I highly recommend checking one out, especially if you run your business solo like I do. After researching three different local networking groups, I decided to join Ignite U , and I’m genuinely so glad I did. This group is filled with supportive, encouraging, and driven small business owners who actually want to help each other succeed. It’s not just about referrals; it’s about building real relationships with people who understand what it’s like to navigate the chaos of small business ownership. Ignite U meets three times a week, and as a member, you can attend as many or as few meetings as you want. There’s no mandatory attendance or pressure, just show up when you can. But here’s the secret sauce: you get out of it what you put into it. The more you show up, listen, and support others, the more they’ll want to support and refer you. People do business with those they know, like, and trust, and that trust builds faster when you consistently show up. If you’re even a little curious about what this looks like, I’d love to bring you along as my guest to check out a meeting. No pressure...just come see what it’s all about. Take a peek at the website if you want to learn more: https://www.igniteu365.com Girl Friday Notary Services Notarization may be boring, but I’m not! #GirlFridayNotary   #IgniteU   #SmallBusinessSupport   #WAStateNotary   #TacomaNotary   #OlympiaNotary   #NetworkingMatters   #KnowLikeTrust   #PetFriendlyNotary   #MobileNotaryWA   #NotaryWithHeart   #BusinessConnections   #SoloBusinessOwner   #NetworkingTips

As I wrap up a week of posts about the power of networking, I want to be clear about something. Networking isn’t really just about referrals. Sure, referrals happen and they’re amazing, but that’s not the point. The real magic of networking is in the people you surround yourself with. It’s about building a circle of fellow small business owners who get it. People who show up for you, build you up, catch you when you stumble, and help you dust off when you fall. It’s about sharing ideas, celebrating wins, learning from failures, and leaning on each other when entrepreneurship feels overwhelming. And over time, by showing up, listening, supporting, and being your authentic self, something amazing happens. People begin to know you. They begin to like you. And most importantly, they begin to trust you. And that’s when referrals come! Not out of obligation, but out of genuine belief in who you are and what you offer. So if you’ve been on the fence about joining a networking group, maybe it’s time to stop thinking about what you’ll get and start thinking about who you’ll grow with. Girl Friday Notary Services Notarization may be boring, but I’m not! #GirlFridayNotary   #NetworkingMatters   #KnowLikeTrust   #SmallBusinessCommunity   #TacomaNotary   #OlympiaNotary   #MobileNotaryWA   #WAStateNotary   #PetFriendlyNotary   #NotaryWithHeart   #EntrepreneurLife   #SmallBizSupport