Search Results

One of the most common questions I get as a Washington State Notary is: “What kind of notarization do I need?” If your document doesn’t make it clear, don’t worry-I can help guide you through the process without overstepping legal boundaries. How We Can Determine the Right Notarial Act: Step 1: Check for Pre-Printed Notary Wording Many documents already include specific notary wording that tells me exactly what is needed. For example: If the document includes acknowledgment wording, I know you’ll need to confirm your identity and willingness to sign. If it contains jurat wording, I know you’ll need to sign in my presence and take an oath or affirmation. If the document lacks clear wording, we move to the next step. Step 2: I’ll Describe the Notarial Acts, and You Choose As a notary, I cannot choose the notarization for you, but I can explain your options! For example:   Acknowledgment – You confirm your identity and state that you signed willingly.  Jurat – You sign in my presence and take an oath or affirmation swearing the contents are true. I can also show you sample notary certificates so you can decide which type best fits your needs. Step 3: Contact the Agency That Issued or Will Receive the Document If it’s still unclear, I’ll suggest reaching out to:  The organization that issued the document  The agency that will receive the notarized form You can explain the purpose of the notarization or let them know the options I’ve described so they can tell you what’s required.   What If None of These Steps Work? If you still aren’t sure what kind of notarization is needed, I may not be able to proceed. In that case, you may need to consult with an attorney or the requesting agency to clarify the document’s requirements.   The Bottom Line: You don’t have to figure it out alone! I’ll walk you through the options so you can make an informed choice.   Need a knowledgeable, by-the-book notary? Let’s connect! GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES Notarization may be boring, but I’m not! #WAStateNotary   #TacomaNotary   #OlympiaNotary   #MobileNotaryWA   #KnowYourNotaryOptions   #ProfessionalNotary   #NotaryPublic   #SmoothSignings   #LegalDocuments

Getting a document notarized shouldn’t be stressful! As a Washington State Notary, my job is to make the process smooth, legal, and hassle-free. But what does it take to ensure a notarization appointment is successful every time? Here’s what you need to know: Personal Appearance is Required The signer must appear in person before the notary. This is non-negotiable. Whether it’s an in-person notarization or an online notarization, I need to verify identity, willingness, and awareness. Remote notarizations may be an option, but personal appearance, either physically or virtually, is always required. The Document Must Be Ready Before notarization, I’ll do a quick check to ensure: The document has no blank spaces that could lead to fraud. It contains the necessary notarial wording (if missing, I can attach the correct certificate). The name on the ID matches the name in the document. What I CANNOT do: Tell you which type of notarization you need (but I can explain your options!). Read the document’s details-my job is to verify the signing, not review the content. Give legal advice-only attorneys can do that! Valid Identification is Required Washington State law requires proper ID to confirm identity. Acceptable forms include:  Driver’s License or State ID  U.S. Passport  Other approved government-issued IDs What if the signer doesn’t have valid ID? In some cases, we may use credible witnesses who personally know the signer and can vouch for their identity. The Notary Keeps a Record A journal entry is required or strongly recommended for every notarization. This protects both the signer and me by providing a legal record in case there are ever questions about the signing. Completing the Notarial Certificate Every notarization includes a certificate confirming what I did. If the document doesn’t have pre-printed notarial wording, I’ll ask the signer what type of notarization is required, and I can attach the correct certificate.   A few key details must always be correct:  The venue (State & County where the notarization happens)  My official notary signature and seal  The date and details of the notarization The Bottom Line: If you bring the right ID, a complete document, and appear in person, we’re all set for a smooth notarization! Need a notary who makes the process simple? Let’s connect! GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES Notarization may be boring, but I’m not! #WAStateNotary   #TacomaNotary   #OlympiaNotary   #MobileNotaryWA   #KnowBeforeYouSign   #NotaryTips   #LegalDocuments   #EasyNotarization   #ProfessionalNotary

Notaries play a critical role in protecting the integrity of legal documents, but even the most careful notaries can find themselves in costly lawsuits. Here are four real-life cases that show why choosing the right notary is essential for protecting your important documents. Case 1: The Never-Ending Lawsuit A notary completed a Power of Attorney at a hospital. Later, the signer claimed he didn’t understand what he signed and sued the notary-twice! Even though the lawsuit was dismissed, the notary still had to pay for legal defense. Why This Matters: If a notarization isn’t handled properly, family disputes, financial losses, or legal challenges can arise. A good notary ensures you’re aware of what you’re signing and acting of your own free will to help prevent these types of claims. Case 2: The Notary Caught in the Crossfire A real estate deal went wrong, and multiple parties were sued, including the notary. The plaintiff wrongfully accused the notary of failing to verify a signer’s identity, dragging them into a $200,000 lawsuit. Though the notary was eventually cleared, legal fees added up fast. Why This Matters: Real estate transactions involve large sums of money, and if fraud occurs, it can leave homeowners and lenders facing serious financial losses. Working with an experienced notary who follows proper ID verification procedures helps protect your investment and prevent fraudulent transactions.   Case 3: The Costly Thumbprint Mistake During a real estate signing, a notary was distracted and forgot to take a required thumbprint from the signer. Later, it turned out the signer was an impostor committing fraud, and the notary was sued for $250,000. Why This Matters: Even small mistakes can open the door to fraud, putting your property and financial interests at risk. A diligent notary follows every legal requirement to ensure your documents hold up under scrutiny. Case 4: Ignoring Notary Rules Led to Disaster A notary was asked to notarize a Deed of Trust for two signers who didn’t have valid ID. Instead of following proper ID rules, the notary used a single credible witness, who was not personally known to them, violating state law. Later, a handwriting expert determined the signatures were likely forged, and the notary faced major legal consequences. Why This Matters: A single improperly notarized signature can result in fraud, legal disputes, and financial losses. When documents like real estate deeds, power of attorney, or loan agreements are notarized incorrectly, the consequences can be devastating. The Bottom Line Notarization isn’t just about stamping a document, it’s a critical step in fraud prevention and legal protection. A detail-oriented, by-the-book notary ensures your documents are legally sound and secure, preventing legal headaches down the road. Need a notary who prioritizes accuracy and integrity? Let’s connect!  GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES Notarization may be boring, but I’m not! #WAStateNotary   #NotarySafety   #ProtectYourDocuments   #TacomaNotary   #OlympiaNotary   #MobileNotaryWA   #FraudPrevention   #LegalProtection   #TrustedNotary   #KnowBeforeYouSign

Here's the scoop for anyone needing a notarized copy of important documents like birth certificates, death certificates, marriage licenses, or passports in Washington State. What Notaries CANNOT Do: In Washington, notaries cannot certify copies of vital records (like birth/death certificates or marriage licenses) or public documents like passports. Official copies of these must be obtained directly from the issuing government agency, like the Washington State Department of Health or the U.S. State Department. What Notaries CAN Do: I can notarize an affidavit where you (the document holder) declare that a photocopy of your passport is a true and accurate copy of the original. This is called a copy certification by document custodian. I'll verify your identity, administer an oath, and notarize your statement, giving your document an added layer of trust! The key with this option is to make sure the person requesting the record will accept a certification by document custodian vs a certified copy. Need an Official Vital Record? Skip the middleman and go straight to the source. For Washington vital records, visit the Washington State Department of Health website. Need to notarize an affidavit about your passport copy? That’s where I come in! Let's make it official. Reach out today to book your notarization appointment! GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES Notarization may be boring, but I'm not! #WAStateNotary   #TacomaNotary   #OlympiaNotary   #MobileNotaryWA   #NotaryPublic   #DocumentTips   #NotaryLife   #PassportCopy   #VitalRecords   #KnowBeforeYouSign

Starting January 1, 2025, the IRS mileage deduction increased from 67 cents to 70 cents per mile. While that’s good news for tax deductions, it’s also a direct reflection of how fast fuel and operating costs are rising, especially here in Washington State, where prices seem to climb by the week!  ( irs.gov ) For Girl Friday Notary Services , this means travel fees for mobile notary work will need to reflect these increased costs in order to continue operating sustainably. And it’s not just me, this shift affects all mobile service providers like mobile mechanics, pet groomers, home healthcare services, and more. Why the Increase?  Fuel prices are steadily climbing.  Vehicle maintenance costs are rising.  Longer travel times with traffic mean higher expenses.   What This Means for You: Transparent pricing - I'll always communicate travel fees upfront. Commitment to convenience - I'll continue offering mobile services to save you time and hassle. Focus on value - your experience will always be worth the investment. I appreciate your understanding as I navigate these changes. My goal is to keep providing flexible, professional, and reliable mobile notary services without cutting corners. Need a mobile notary who brings the office to you (and maybe a treat for your dog)? Let’s connect! GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES Notarization may be boring, but I’m not! #WAStateNotary   #MobileNotaryWA   #TacomaNotary   #OlympiaNotary   #NotaryLife   #TravelFeeUpdate   #SupportLocalBusinesses   #RisingFuelCosts   #NotaryOnTheGo   #ConvenienceMatters

You’re ready to sign, your ID checks out, but, uh oh, there are blank spaces in the document. Can a Washington State notary proceed, or do we have to stop? Here’s what you need to know about blank spaces and notarization in WA State. Can I Get a Document Notarized with Blank Spaces? Nope!  A notary in Washington State cannot notarize an incomplete document. Leaving blank spaces opens the door to fraud. Imagine signing a contract to sell your car but leaving the sale price blank-someone could fill in a different number later, leading to major legal headaches. Many states, including WA, prohibit notarizing documents that are incomplete or have blank spaces that could later be altered. Are There Exceptions? Yes! Not all blanks mean a document is incomplete. Some are perfectly fine, such as:   Spaces for additional signatures – If a document requires multiple signatures but only one person is present, the notary can proceed as long as they document the situation in their journal.   Sections marked "For Official Use Only" – Some documents include blank spaces reserved for government officials or title companies. These are OK to leave blank.   Legal Exceptions – Some legal and financial documents allow for specific types of blank endorsements, but these are rare. Notary Certificates Must Be Complete Even when blanks in the main document are allowed, a notary's certificate can NEVER be left incomplete. Missing details, such as the date, location, or type of notarization, can cause the document to be rejected. Who Fills in the Blanks? A notary CANNOT complete any missing information in the main text of your document. If there are blanks, you or an authorized person must fill them in before the notarization can proceed. Before meeting with a notary, double-check that your document is complete-no missing names, amounts, or key details. If you’re unsure whether blank spaces are an issue, I’m happy to take a look and let you know what’s needed before proceeding. Need a reliable Washington State notary who follows the law? Let’s connect! GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES Notarization may be boring, but I’m not! #WAStateNotary   #TacomaNotary   #OlympiaNotary   #MobileNotaryWA   #NotaryTips   #KnowBeforeYouSign   #LegalDocuments   #ProfessionalNotary

Ever wonder why my business is called Girl Friday Notary Services ? It’s more than just a catchy name, it’s a nod to history, hard work, and the belief that reliability and trust matter when it comes to handling your most important documents. The Origin of “Man Friday” The term "Man Friday" comes from Daniel Defoe’s 1719 novel, Robinson Crusoe. In the story, Crusoe is stranded on an island and meets a companion he names Friday. Friday was known for being loyal, trustworthy, and an all-around essential helper, someone Crusoe could count on for survival. Over time, "Man Friday" became a common phrase to describe someone who’s a reliable, go-to assistant, ready to tackle just about any task. How It Became “Girl Friday” Fast forward to the 20th century. As women began entering the workforce, especially during and after World War II, the term "Girl Friday" emerged. It described a woman who was an indispensable assistant, often in office settings, managing everything from scheduling to bookkeeping and always reliable, efficient, and ready to handle whatever came her way. It wasn’t just a job title, it was a badge of honor for being resourceful, dedicated, and trusted to get the job done right. How I Became a Girl Friday After retiring from the fire service, I worked for my father-in-law’s locksmith business. My job? Well… a little bit of everything. I handled bookkeeping, managed property, cleaned and detailed vehicles, organized the office, and even cleared out and prepped his property for sale. I used to joke that I was his personal Girl Friday, ready to take on whatever was needed, whenever it was needed. It was a nickname that stuck. Bringing the Girl Friday Spirit to Notary Work When I started my notary business, the name Girl Friday Notary Services felt like the perfect fit. Why? Because the same qualities that defined a Girl Friday-loyalty, resourcefulness, dependability-are exactly what I bring to every signing appointment.  Real estate closings  Estate planning documents  Powers of attorney  Trusts, wills, and more I’m here to make the process smooth, accurate, and hassle-free. No shortcuts. No guesswork. Just reliable service that makes sure every document is handled with precision and care. Why It Matters When it comes to notarization, trust and attention to detail are everything. Being a Girl Friday means showing up, doing the job right, and making sure every signature, date, and seal is perfect. It’s about being someone you can count on, just like Crusoe counted on his Friday. Need a notary who’s dependable, professional, and ready to make the process simple? Let’s connect! GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES Notarization may be boring, but I’m not! #GirlFridayNotary   #WAStateNotary   #TacomaNotary   #OlympiaNotary   #MobileNotaryWA   #NotaryWithAStory   #ReliableNotary   #NotaryLife   #LoyalAndTrustworthy

When you sit down with a notary, you’re not just getting a stamp-we’re there to be an impartial witness to your signature. But what does that really mean, and why should you care? It Means: No Judgments As a commissioned notary in Washington, I don’t get to pick and choose who I serve based on personal beliefs or opinions. Whether you’re signing a power of attorney, real estate documents, or a heartfelt letter, it’s not my place to agree or disagree with the content. If your request is legal and proper, I’m here to help-no questions, no bias. It Means: No Personal Interest I won’t (and legally can’t) notarize something I’m personally benefiting from. So if your document is gifting me a boat, a car, or even a lifetime supply of cookies, I’ll have to politely step away. A notary must remain completely neutral to keep your documents legally valid and trustworthy. It Means: Fair Service for Everyone I don’t charge based on who you are, where you’re from, what you believe, or who you love. Notary fees in Washington are capped by law-and kindness is free. Being impartial isn’t just a rule-it’s what helps keep your documents secure, your transactions clean, and your signature protected. Tip: If a notary ever refuses service for reasons that feel personal or unfair, you have the right to find another notary who follows the law and puts professionalism first. Have questions about notarizations in Washington? I'm happy to help! GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES Notarization may be boring, but I’m not! #WAStateNotary   #TacomaNotary   #OlympiaNotary   #MobileNotaryWA   #NotaryPublic   #DocumentHelp   #FairNotarization   #LegalProtection   #NotaryExplained   #ImpartialNotary   #TrustedNotary   #ProfessionalNotary

There’s something powerful about women in the workforce, especially the ones building something all their own. Whether you're leading a team, running a solo show, or juggling work with life’s daily chaos, your work matters. Your effort matters. YOU matter. When I launched Girl Friday Notary Services, it wasn’t because I wanted a new hobby. It was because I wanted purpose. Flexibility. Independence. And a chance to do meaningful work while still being the kind of human (and dog mom ) I wanted to be. Today, I get to serve some of the most amazing women-attorneys, business owners, realtors, caregivers, moms, dreamers-who are out here every day getting things done. So here's to the women who: Show up, even on the hard days Wear 15 hats like it's NBD Lift each other up without needing a reason Know their worth and lead with heart I’m proud to be a woman-owned business in Washington State. I’m proud to serve my community. And I’m especially proud to support other hardworking women doing the same! GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES Notarization may be boring, but I’m not! #WomenInBusiness   #GirlFridayNotary   #WAStateNotary   #TacomaNotary   #OlympiaNotary   #MobileNotaryWA   #WomenSupportingWomen   #NotaryLife   #PetFriendlyNotary   #EmpoweredWomenEmpowerWomen

Not every situation has a clear legal answer. As a commissioned Notary Public, there are times when I’m asked to notarize something unusual and... the law is silent. So, what happens when state law doesn’t spell out exactly what to do? That’s when I rely on what’s called the “Standard of Care.” It’s basically the notary version of doing what’s right-even when there’s no rulebook handy. Here’s what that means for YOU, my clients:  I act ethically and professionally, every single time  I follow tried-and-true best practices-especially when the rules get a little fuzzy  I know when to say “yes,” when to say “no,” and when to guide you toward the right resource   Example: Just because WA State might allow notarizing a document for a family member doesn’t mean it’s always the best idea. If I think it could appear biased or sketchy down the line, I’ll politely decline. That’s not just protecting me-it’s protecting YOU. And when there’s no roadmap? I check my compass:  The Notary Public Code of Professional Responsibility  Guidance from state agencies  Common sense and integrity Some of my everyday best practices include:  Always using my notary seal (even if it’s not required)  Keeping a detailed notary journal (yes, even when it’s optional!)  Making sure every signer appears in person, is aware of what they’re signing, and isn’t being pressured to sign. Because when I put my stamp on a document, it’s more than ink. It’s trust. Have a tricky document or an unusual situation? Let’s talk it through-transparency and clarity are what I do best. GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES Notarization may be boring, but I’m not! #WAStateNotary   #TacomaNotary   #OlympiaNotary   #MobileNotaryWA   #NotaryPublic   #EthicalNotary   #StandardOfCare   #ProfessionalNotary   #TrustedNotary   #NotaryEducation   #KnowBeforeYouSign

Did you know there’s a behind-the-scenes “Do Not Use” list that signing services and title companies keep for Notaries?  It’s the Notary Blacklist-and it’s where careers go to disappear. The good news? You’ll never find Girl Friday Notary Services on it. Here's why:  I never ghost appointments. No-call, no-show? Not on my watch.  I triple-check every document for signatures, dates, and stamp placement. Accuracy isn’t optional, it’s essential.  I follow instructions to the letter, whether it’s ink color, scan-backs, or where to drop the docs.  I’m professional, prompt, and dressed for the job because your transaction deserves respect.  I return calls and messages quickly. Communication is how we keep your closing on track.  I protect your privacy and follow every WA State notary law-ethics matter.  I don’t take feedback personally. I learn from it. Every appointment is a chance to improve. Why does this matter to you? Because a great notary can help your transaction close on time without a hitch. A careless one? Delays, re-signs, or worse. My name and reputation mean everything. I work hard to stay on the “Must-Call” list, not the Blacklist. Need a notary who takes your signing as seriously as you do? Let’s connect! GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES Notarization may be boring, but I’m not! #WAStateNotary   #MobileNotaryWA   #TacomaNotary   #OlympiaNotary   #TrustedNotary   #NotaryDoneRight   #RealEstateClosings   #ProfessionalNotary   #NotaryWithIntegrity   #NotaryTips   #AvoidTheBlacklist

Here’s a simple guide to transferring the vehicle title into your name. Let’s make this process smooth and stress-free! When to Transfer a Vehicle Title: After buying or receiving a vehicle as a gift, you have 15 days to transfer ownership into your name. If you miss this deadline, you could face penalties. Steps to Transfer Ownership: 1. Gather Information and Forms: Odometer Disclosure Form: A. If the vehicle is from 2011 or newer, fill out the Odometer Disclosure section on the title. B. For vehicles from 2010 or older, no odometer miles reporting is needed. C. If you don't have the title, get an Odometer Disclosure form at your local vehicle licensing office (you can’t download it). Vehicle/Vessel Bill of Sale: Buyer and the seller need to complete this form. 2. Notarized Vehicle Title Application: Signatures on the Vehicle Title Application form must be notarized. Don’t sign until you’re in front of a notary public or a licensing agent, both of whom can notarize it. 3. Submit Forms and Payment 4. Get Your Title: A. Vehicle Licensing Office: Get your title in 6-8 weeks. B. Quick Title Office: Get your title immediately in person or within a few business days by mail (additional $50 fee). Got questions or need assistance with notarizing documents? Reach out to Girl Friday Notary Services! Let's make your vehicle title transfer a breeze. GIRL FRIDAY NOTARY SERVICES