What Is a Power of Attorney (POA) and Why Does It Matter?

A power of attorney (POA) lets you authorize someone else to make decisions on your behalf. Your agent might handle banking while you’re traveling, manage a property sale, or make healthcare choices if you can’t communicate. The document spells out what authority you’re granting and for how long.

The significance of a properly executed POA cannot be overstated. Without one, your loved ones may face costly court proceedings to gain authority over your affairs during emergencies. A well-drafted POA provides peace of mind and ensures your wishes are honored when you cannot speak for yourself.

When Is Notarization Required for a Power of Attorney?

The answer depends on three factors: 

• your state’s legal requirements 
• what type of POA you’re creating 
• where you plan to use it.

About 65% of states specifically mandate notarization for financial POAs, according to 2025 Uniform Law Commission data. The rest technically allow witnesses, but here’s what that statistic doesn’t tell you: acceptance varies wildly. A 2025 study by the American Bar Association found that 82% of financial institutions reject POAs lacking proper notarization, even in states where witnesses are legally sufficient. Banks have experienced enough fraud to demand the extra protection notarization provides.

What Role Does a Notary Play in the Power of Attorney Process?

A notary serves three critical functions when witnessing your POA signature:

Identity Verification: The notary examines your government-issued ID and confirms you are who you claim to be. This prevents someone from forging a POA using a stolen identity or impersonating the principal.

Willingness Confirmation: The notary asks questions to ensure you’re signing voluntarily, without coercion or undue influence. They’re trained to spot signs of pressure from family members or others who might benefit from the POA.

Official Record Creation: The notary logs the transaction in their journal and applies their official seal. This creates a verifiable paper trail that courts and institutions can reference if questions arise later about the POA’s validity.

Working with experienced Professional notary services ensures your POA meets both legal requirements and institutional acceptance standards. For those unable to travel to a notary office, mobile notaries provide the same legal protections by coming directly to your location.

The Legal Requirements: Notarization vs Witnesses

Some states offer alternatives to notarization, but understanding practical differences matters more than legal technicalities:

Witnesses confirm you signed but don’t verify identity the way notaries do. Your neighbor might witness your signature, but banks often won’t accept that level of verification when someone’s requesting access to your accounts.

When Notarization Becomes Legally Necessary

These situations almost always mandate notarization by law or institutional policy:

Real Estate Transactions: Title companies and county recording offices require notarized POAs for property transfers, refinancing, or sales. Non-notarized POAs won’t be recorded, making them legally ineffective for real estate purposes.

Financial Account Access: Banks, investment firms and credit unions typically demand notarized POAs before allowing agents to access accounts, even in states where witnesses are legally acceptable. Their institutional policies override state minimum requirements.

Healthcare Directives: Hospitals and medical facilities require notarization for healthcare POAs, particularly those involving end-of-life decisions or significant medical interventions. This protects them from liability if family members later contest the agent’s authority.

Government Agency Dealings: Social Security, the IRS and state agencies generally mandate notarized POAs for representatives handling benefits or tax matters. Federal requirements supersede state witness provisions.

Where Can I Get a Power of Attorney Notarized in Florida?

Florida requires POAs to be both notarized AND witnessed by two people who aren’t named in the document. This dual requirement exceeds what most states mandate.

You can get POAs notarized at several locations:

Bank Branches: Many banks offer notary services for customers, often at no charge. Call ahead because notaries aren’t always available.

Law Offices: Attorneys who draft POAs typically provide notarization as part of their service. This ensures the document meets all legal requirements.

Notary Public Offices: Professional notary services handle high volumes and understand state-specific witnessing requirements. They keep proper records and follow current procedures.

Mobile Notary Services: Mobile Notaries travel to homes, hospitals, or care facilities serve people who can’t easily travel. This matters for elderly clients or those with health limitations.

Remote Online Notarization: Florida authorized remote notarization permanently in 2019. You can complete the process through video if your situation requires it and the receiving institution accepts RON.

Remote Online Notarization: What You Need to Know in 2026

RON lets you get documents notarized through video instead of in person. By 2026, 47 states authorize remote online notarization, including Florida.

The process works through identity verification using uploaded ID and knowledge-based questions, followed by a live video session with a commissioned notary who applies an electronic signature and digital seal.

RON usage jumped 45% from 2023 to 2025, driven by convenience and improved technology. Interstate recognition has improved, though you should confirm the state where you’ll use the POA accepts remotely notarized documents.

Same-day notarization doesn’t affect validity. When you get the POA notarized matters less than following proper procedures.

How to Ensure Your Power of Attorney Is Properly Notarized

The process is straightforward when you know what to bring:

1. Complete your POA form (don’t sign yet)
2. Bring valid government-issued photo ID
3. Appear before the notary (in person or via video)
4. Sign in the notary’s presence
5. Have required witnesses present if your state mandates both

Finding the right notary ensures proper procedures and reduces rejection risk. Look for notaries experienced with POA documents who understand your state’s specific requirements.

For notarization services in Florida, Notary Plus More handles power of attorney documents with experience in state requirements and acceptance standards.

The post Do I Need a Notary for a Power of Attorney in 2026? appeared first on Notary Plus More.

A denied background check doesn’t always mean the end of the road. Understanding why denials occur, what rights applicants have and how to handle the situation properly can make the difference between a closed door and a second chance. This guide covers the legal requirements, step-by-step processes and practical actions for both employers and applicants dealing with background check denials.

What a Denial Actually Means

A background check denial happens when something in the screening results disqualifies someone from a job, license, or certification. But “denial” covers different situations. Sometimes it’s a hard stop – a conviction that state law says bars you from the position. Other times it’s a flag that needs review before anyone makes a final call.

The reasons vary. Criminal records are obvious, but identity mismatches trip people up constantly. Your name is slightly different on your driver’s license versus your Social Security card. Addresses don’t line up. Employment dates from ten years ago don’t match what the previous employer reported. These look like red flags even when there’s nothing wrong.

For professional licensing like notary commissions, states get specific about what disqualifies you. Florida permanently bars felony convictions unless your rights have been restored. Other states focus on fraud, forgery, or crimes involving dishonesty. A DUI from college might not matter for most jobs but could block certain licenses.

Understanding what causes red flags helps you figure out whether you’re dealing with an error or something that needs addressing.

What Employers Have to Do Before Denying Someone

Employers can’t just toss an application because something showed up. The Fair Credit Reporting Act says you have to follow specific steps and skipping them creates legal problems.

Before You Deny Employment

Give the applicant a copy of the background check report, an explanation of their rights and time to respond. That waiting period matters. Five to ten business days gives someone a chance to look at the report and tell you if something’s wrong.

Maybe the criminal record belongs to someone else with the same name. Maybe that job they supposedly never held was under a different corporate entity that got acquired. People know their own histories better than a database does.

The Final Notice

If you’re still moving forward with the denial after that waiting period, send a formal adverse action notice. Include who ran the background check, explain that they didn’t make the hiring decision and remind the person they can dispute the report’s accuracy.

When State or Federal Checks Come Into Play

Some positions require state or federal screening depending on licensing requirements. Teachers need state and FBI checks. Notaries need fingerprint-based background checks that go through state databases and sometimes federal systems.

Florida and most other states updated their fingerprinting requirements in the past few years. Electronic LiveScan replaced ink cards because it’s faster and more accurate. But that means if your prints get rejected for quality issues, it can hold up your entire application even when your background is clean.

States also differ on what disqualifies you. One state might permanently bar a specific conviction while another imposes a waiting period. Check your state’s rules before assuming a past issue automatically disqualifies you.

What to Do If You’re the One Who Got Denied

Getting denied feels like hitting a wall, but you have options.

Get the Report

You’re entitled to see whatever information led to the denial. Contact the screening company – their information should be on the denial notice – and request your report. Don’t assume you know what’s in there.

Check for Mistakes

Go through the report line by line. Wrong addresses, incorrect dates, records that aren’t yours – these happen more than people realize. If you find errors, dispute them in writing with the screening company. They have 30 days to investigate and fix verified mistakes.

Know Your Rights

Some states let you appeal professional licensing denials or request hearings to explain circumstances. Criminal records from years ago might not disqualify you if you can show rehabilitation. Expunged records shouldn’t appear but sometimes do and you can get those corrected.

Processing times for corrections vary, but staying on top of the dispute process moves things faster than waiting and hoping.

Understand What You’re Working With

Not every denial is permanent. Employers might reconsider if you provide context. Licensing boards sometimes grant waivers or allow reapplication after waiting periods. The key is understanding exactly what’s blocking you and whether it’s fixable.

Common Concerns About Denials

Will minor offenses show up and cause problems?

It depends on the position and the state. Employers can consider anything relevant to job duties. Professional licensing boards have specific lists of disqualifying offenses. A misdemeanor from ten years ago might not matter for one job but could block a license that requires a clean record.

How long do I have to dispute incorrect information?

Employers must give you time to respond – usually five to ten business days – before making a final decision. Once you dispute something with the screening company, they have 30 days to investigate.

Can a background check issue affect a license I already have?

Yes. States can revoke professional licenses, including notary commissions, for certain criminal convictions that occur after you’re licensed. Most states require you to report arrests or convictions to your licensing board.

Moving Forward

Background check denials aren’t always the end of the story. Errors get corrected. Context gets explained. Waiting periods expire.

If you’re hiring, following FCRA requirements protects you legally. If you’re dealing with a denial, getting your report and disputing errors gives you a path forward. Many denials can be resolved by understanding what triggered them and taking the right steps.

For professional licenses requiring fingerprinting, experienced providers help avoid quality-related rejections that delay applications. Notary Plus More handles background check fingerprinting for licensing throughout Florida.

The post How to Handle Background Check Denials for Employees or Applicants appeared first on Notary Plus More.

We’ve done thousands of LiveScan appointments for healthcare workers, teachers, immigrants and professionals getting licensed. Here’s where to find authorized providers, what to bring and how to avoid mistakes that waste weeks.

What is LiveScan Fingerprinting?

LiveScan captures fingerprints digitally through a scanner. Unlike ink fingerprinting, LiveScan sends prints electronically to databases within seconds.

Here’s why that matters: we see your prints on screen right away. Something look smudged? We redo it now. With ink cards, you’re sitting around for weeks before finding out there’s a problem.

LiveScan vs Ink Fingerprinting: Key Differences

FBI data shows over 92% of submissions now go electronic because it’s faster and more accurate.

Why Go with LiveScan Instead of Ink?

• Faster Results – Fingerprints hit agencies within hours. Background checks come back in 24-72 hours, not weeks.
• Catch Errors Right Away – We see print quality on screen. Unclear prints get fixed now, not after you’ve waited three weeks.
• Lower Rejection Rate – LiveScan gets rejected 5-8% of the time versus 15-20% for ink cards.
• No Ink Mess – Clean process. No stains on your hands or clothes.

Who Needs LiveScan Fingerprints?

Here’s who needs LiveScan:

• Healthcare Workers – Nurses, doctors, medical assistants need clearance before seeing patients. State boards won’t give you a license without prints.
• Teachers and School Staff – K-12 jobs need background checks for anything involving kids
• Financial Professionals – Real estate agents, mortgage brokers, financial advisors need prints for state licenses
• Immigration Applicants – USCIS wants LiveScan for naturalization, green cards, visas. People who lived here before often need FBI clearance certificates too
• Adoptive and Foster Parents – Home studies won’t move forward without prints for every adult in the house
• Volunteers Working with Minors – Youth coaches, mentors, scout leaders have to pass screening before working with kids
• Commercial Drivers and Security Personnel – CDL holders, armed guards, private investigators need clearance

Immigration and adoption cases almost always need notarized translations, affidavits, or consent forms along with prints.

Where to Get LiveScan Fingerprints

Law Enforcement Agencies: Police departments and sheriff’s offices do LiveScan for federal checks. Cheaper but hours are limited.

Private Fingerprinting Companies: Independent providers have flexible hours and take appointments. Costs more but way easier to schedule.

Notary and Business Service Offices: Some notary offices do LiveScan with document services for licensing, immigration, or adoption cases where you need both.

Mobile LiveScan Services: Mobile providers come to you. Great for businesses doing multiple employees.

How to Find LiveScan Locations Near You

Check with the Requesting Agency: They’ll give you a list of approved locations.

Search State Databases: States keep online directories through their DOJ websites.

Verify Authorization: Make sure the provider can submit to your agencies before booking.

What to Bring to Your Appointment

Missing paperwork kills appointments. Bring:

• Valid Photo ID – Driver’s license, passport, or state ID. Name has to match your paperwork exactly.
• Live Scan Request Form – Original from your employer or agency
• ORI Number – Get this routing code from whoever asked for prints
• Payment – Cash, credit card, or check (call ahead about cards)

Immigration cases need notarized translations. Licensing apps often need notarized transcripts. Adoption paperwork needs notarized consent forms. Get prints and notarized docs done together – saves you a second trip.

The LiveScan Process

Check-In: We check your ID and catch paperwork errors right away.

Data Entry: Your info goes into the system. Watch the screen – mistakes happen with middle names, suffixes, or flipped numbers.

Fingerprint Capture: You put each finger on the scanner. We check quality against FBI standards before the next one.

Quality Review: Problems show up on screen and get fixed now. That’s why LiveScan rejects 5-8% versus 15-20% for ink.

Electronic Submission: Prints go out electronically once approved. Keep your receipt – you need that transaction number to track things.

How Long Does Processing Take?

FBI Checks: Results come back in 24 to 72 hours. What shows up depends on what type of screening you’re doing.

State Checks: Takes anywhere from a few days to several weeks.

What Does LiveScan Cost?

LiveScan Fingerprinting Cost Breakdown

What to know:
LiveScan costs are made up of two parts the service fee charged by the fingerprinting provider and processing fees set by federal or state agencies. Government processing fees are fixed, while service fees may vary by location, appointment type and whether additional services (such as identity verification or notarized documents) are needed.

Common Problems

From doing hundreds of appointments each month, here’s what causes issues:

• Dry or Worn Prints – Construction workers, mechanics, nurses often have faint patterns. Moisturize three days before, skip lotion that day.
• Sweaty Hands – Nervous people don’t realize their palms are sweating till prints smudge. Wash and dry hands right before.
• Wrong Info – Misspelled middle names, wrong suffixes, flipped Social Security numbers send prints to the wrong agency.
• Wrong ORI Number – Happens with multiple background checks going or outdated numbers from employers. Double-check before you go.

Picking a Provider

Authorization: Make sure they can submit to your agency.

Combined Services: Need notarized affidavits or sworn statements with prints? Find providers doing both. Immigration, licensing and adoption cases usually need notarized docs.

Experience: Providers who handle worn prints or dry skin know tricks that work.

Availability: Law enforcement costs less but limited hours. Private providers charge more, have evenings and weekends.

Wrapping Up

You can get LiveScan through law enforcement, private companies, notary offices, or mobile providers. Before booking, make sure they’re authorized for your agency and can meet your deadline. Need both prints and notarized documents? Happens all the time with immigration, licensing and adoption. Find providers doing both in one visit. Notary Plus More does LiveScan and notary services for FBI, FDLE and state licensing boards.

The post Where to Get LiveScan Fingerprints: A Complete Guide appeared first on Notary Plus More.

Looking for ink fingerprinting in your area? This guide covers how the process works, where to get it done, and what to expect during your appointment.

What is Ink Fingerprinting?

Ink fingerprinting records your unique fingerprint patterns onto specialized cards using traditional ink. A technician applies ink to each fingertip, then rolls your fingers across designated spaces on official fingerprint cards.

These cards use paper stock designed to capture fine ridge details. Black ink provides the clearest contrast for scanning and review. After your fingerprints are recorded, the cards are submitted to the requesting authority for your background check.

Where to Find Ink Fingerprinting Near Me?

Ink fingerprinting is commonly offered by professional fingerprinting and notary service providers to support background checks, licensing, and identity verification needs. Several types of facilities provide this service:

• Local police departments and sheriff offices
• Independent fingerprinting companies
• Notary public offices with fingerprinting services
• Private security and background screening firms

In addition to police departments, many notary offices now provide ink fingerprinting as part of their identity verification services. Finding a nearby provider takes just a few minutes online. Search for “ink fingerprinting services near me” or check directly with the organization requesting your prints. Understanding why fingerprints matter helps you appreciate the importance of getting quality prints from the start.

What to Expect During the Ink Fingerprinting Process?

Appointments typically begin with identity verification and paperwork:

• Valid photo ID (driver’s license or passport)
• Completed forms with personal information
• Required documentation from the requesting agency
• ORI number if supplied by your employer

When fingerprinting is completed at a professional notary or fingerprinting office, trained technicians help ensure prints meet agency standards. The technician applies ink to your fingertips and guides the rolling motion needed to capture full prints on the card. Clear impressions without smudges or gaps are the goal. Based on requirements, you may need one card or several sets.

How Long Does Ink Fingerprinting Take?

Most fingerprinting sessions finish in about 10 minutes. This covers the paperwork, taking the prints, and reviewing them for quality.

Processing time after submission depends on the receiving agency. Background check results may come back anywhere from a few days to several weeks. Electronic submissions typically process faster than mailed cards. Knowing typical processing times helps you plan around employment start dates or licensing deadlines.

How Much Does Ink Fingerprinting Cost?

Pricing varies by location and purpose. Here’s what affects the total cost:

Some providers also offer mobile fingerprinting that comes to your location. Combining fingerprinting with notary services can be more efficient when both are needed for the same application.

Can I Get Fingerprinted at My Local Police Station?

Many local police stations offer ink fingerprinting for employment background checks, professional certifications, and volunteer screening.

Pricing may differ from private providers, and some departments handle walk-ins while others require appointments. To avoid rejection, confirm what documentation and identification you need before arriving.

Conclusion

Ink fingerprinting continues serving as a reliable method for background verification across employment, licensing, immigration, and volunteer applications. Understanding where to access these services and what the process involves helps you meet deadlines without complications.

For individuals seeking reliable ink fingerprinting services, professional providers such as Notary Plus More offer fingerprinting support alongside notary and identity-related services throughout Florida.

The post Ink Fingerprinting Near Me: A Complete Guide appeared first on Notary Plus More.

What Mobile Fingerprinting Really Means

A certified technician shows up at your door with professional scanning equipment. No driving to police stations or government offices. They come to you, whether that’s your living room, workplace or anywhere else that makes sense.

The tech side is straightforward. They use portable Live Scan devices that capture your prints digitally. Clean process, no ink mess, and you’re usually looking at results within 3 days instead of waiting weeks for paper cards to travel through the mail system.

The Straight-Up Comparison

Why This Actually Matters

No More Driving
Gas prices, parking meters, traffic jams. Gone. The technician handles all that instead of you. Helps a ton if you live out in rural areas where the nearest fingerprinting place is 45 minutes away.

Real Flexibility
Need prints done at 7 PM on a Tuesday? Saturday morning? Mobile services work around actual human schedules instead of rigid 9-to-5 hours.

Better Results
Digital scanners catch problems right away. If something looks off, they redo it on the spot. With ink cards, you don’t find out there’s an issue until weeks later when everything comes back rejected.

Groups Make Sense
When schools hire five new teachers or a clinic brings on three nurses, coordinating individual appointments turns into a logistical nightmare. Mobile services handle everyone in one shot.

The Numbers Behind It

The fingerprint biometrics market hit $26.3 billion in 2025. By 2035, experts project $69.4 billion. That’s serious growth, and more than 92% of FBI submissions now come through electronic systems because they work better than ink.

This isn’t hype. Organizations are genuinely shifting how they handle background checks because people want convenience without cutting corners on security.

How It Goes Down

Setting Things Up
You call or book online. Tell them how many people need printing and what it’s for. They quote you a price that includes the standard fees plus whatever it costs them to drive out.

What You Actually Need
Government photo ID. Driver’s license works. Passport works. Some agencies want specific forms with ORI numbers, but the provider walks you through that when you schedule.

The Appointment Itself
Technician shows up with gear. Checks your ID. Guides your fingers onto the scanner. Takes maybe 10 minutes per person. Quality checks happen in real time, so if something needs a redo, it happens right then.

What Happens Next
Your prints go out electronically within 24 hours through encrypted channels. Processing time depends on the agency, but knowing processing times helps you plan ahead instead of wondering when results will show up.

Who Gets the Most Out of This

Companies Hiring Multiple People
When you’re bringing on five, ten, twenty new employees, having everyone processed at your office during orientation saves massive headaches. Healthcare, schools, security firms see the value fast.

Professionals Needing Renewals
Real estate agents, financial advisors, nurses, teachers. They all face regular fingerprinting for licenses and certifications. Mobile services let them handle it without disrupting client schedules or taking half days off.

Volunteer Coordinators
Running screenings for volunteers gets easier when you process everyone at the same training session instead of tracking down individuals over several weeks.Why this matters becomes clear when you’re managing dozens of people.

People with Transportation Issues
Elderly folks, anyone recovering from surgery, people in wheelchairs. Traditional fingerprinting creates barriers that mobile services just eliminate.

Quick Answers to What People Ask

Does it count as official?
Completely. Same FBI-certified equipment, same legal standing. Courts and agencies accept it exactly like traditional methods.

What’s it cost?
Standard state fees (usually $10 per signature) plus a travel charge. Groups often get volume discounts. Ask for the full breakdown upfront.

Is my data safe?
Same encryption and security as fixed locations. Actually safer in some ways since there’s no paper card floating around that could get lost.

Making It Work

The whole point of comparing mobile versus traditional comes down to what your time is worth. Mobile costs more upfront, but when you factor in driving, waiting, taking time off work, the math shifts fast.

For businesses, the coordination savings alone justify the cost. For individuals facing tight deadlines, getting results in days instead of weeks can make the difference between landing a job and watching the opportunity disappear.

Technology made it possible to bring certified fingerprinting anywhere. That matters because background checks aren’t going away, and making them less of a hassle helps everyone.

Need fingerprinting in South Florida? Notary Plus More covers Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade with mobile services and document authentication. Straightforward pricing, flexible scheduling, no runaround.

The post How Mobile Fingerprinting Solutions Can Save You Time and Effort appeared first on Notary Plus More.

It does. Let me explain how same-day notarization works.

Florida Has No Waiting Period for Notarization

Same-day notarization is completely legal here. No waiting period exists between signing and notarizing.

Statute Chapter 117 focuses on procedure, not timing. The law wants it done right, not slow. Follow proper steps and same-day service holds up legally.

The mobile notary market hit $500 million this year and experts project it’ll reach $2.6 billion within a decade. That’s 18.4% annual growth driven by people needing fast, flexible notarization.

Legal Requirements Don’t Change with Speed

Whether you notarize today or next month, requirements stay identical. 

Show Up in Person

You appear before the notary. They watch you sign or have you acknowledge your existing signature. Pretty straightforward.

Remote Online Notarization lets you appear via secure video. Florida authorized RON back in January 2020, and it carries the same legal weight as sitting across a desk from someone.

Valid ID Wins Every Time

Current government photo ID. Driver’s license, passport, state ID. Something proving who you are.

Notaries check this first. Always have, always will. Can’t skip it no matter how rushed you are.

Correct Certificate Matters

Your document needs proper notarial wording. Acknowledgment, jurat, oath, verification. Depends on the document type.

Notary completes this certificate, adds seal and signature. Takes 10 minutes whether it’s today or two Tuesdays from now. Pretty simple when you’ve got the right paperwork.

Journal Gets Filled Out

Every notarization gets recorded. Date, time, document type, ID verification method.

This protects everyone involved. Speed doesn’t skip this step. Think of it as your paper trail if questions pop up later.

Year-End Rush Creates Real Urgency

December brings waves of people needing documents notarized fast. Estate planning before the calendar flips. Business contracts wrapping up Essential documents needing attention before offices close for holidays.

Genuine Time Pressure: Court filing due at 5 PM. Closing scheduled tomorrow at 10 AM. International flight boards in six hours and border control might ask for that notarized letter.

Notaries handle these regularly. It’s expected, not exceptional. Most of us keep flexible hours during busy seasons because we know life doesn’t wait.

Self-Created Pressure: Document sat on your desk for three weeks. You suddenly remembered when scrolling your phone at lunch.

Same-day still works. You’ll just pay extra for procrastination. No judgment though, happens to everyone.

Remote Notarization Changed Everything

Online notary market jumped from $1.2 billion in 2024 to projected $3.5 billion within ten years. That’s 15.5% yearly growth. People figured out you don’t need to sit in an office waiting room anymore.

Around-the-Clock Access

RON platforms connect you with notaries 24/7. Saturday at 11 PM? Christmas morning? Doesn’t matter.

The notary might work from Arizona or Georgia but your Florida notarization stays valid. Distance means nothing when video works.

Quick Turnaround

Most sessions run 10 to 15 minutes. Upload document, verify identity, connect via video, sign digitally.

Download your notarized document immediately. No driving, no waiting rooms, no three-day appointments. Just done.

Premium Pricing

RON costs $25 to $50 per document. Traditional notary services cap at $10 per signature by law.

You’re paying for instant access. Worth it depends on your deadline and stress level.

Mobile Notaries Travel to You

Can’t use RON? Mobile notaries drive to your location same-day. Honestly, it’s way more convenient than you’d think.

Call or text them. They check availability. If open, they head to you.

Most notaries around Palm Beach and Broward respond within hours. Emergency service runs faster but costs more, obviously.

Travel fees typically hit $50 to $100 depending on distance and urgency. Gas isn’t free and neither is dropping everything to help you out.

Family Notarizations Need Extra Attention

Rushing to get family documents notarized creates complications. The state has specific rules about notaries handling family paperwork, and urgency doesn’t override those restrictions.

Speed Creates These Common Mistakes

Bringing Blank Forms

You rush in with an empty document thinking you’ll fill it there. Can’t happen. Florida law prohibits notarizing blank or incomplete documents.

Wrong Notarization Type

The document needs a jurat but nobody realizes it. Notary does an acknowledgment instead.

It takes five minutes to figure out what you actually need. Worth those five minutes instead of redoing everything later.

Partial Documents

You bring the signature page from a 15-page contract. Notary needs to see the full document to understand what they’re notarizing.

Bring the whole thing. Yes, all 15 pages.

Expired Identification

You grab your wallet and bolt out the door. The driver’s license expired three months ago and you completely forgot.

The session’s over before it starts. Check that expiration date before you leave home.

Busting Common Myths

“Documents Must Age Before Notarization” False. No aging requirement exists.

“Notaries Need a 30-Day Relationship with You” Wrong. No mandatory relationship period in Florida law.

“Courts Reject Same-Day Notarizations” Never happens based on timing. Courts reject procedural errors, not speed.

“48-Hour Advance Scheduling Is Required” Not law. Some notaries prefer notice but that’s their preference.

Why Same-Day Sometimes Fails

Notaries Fully Booked

Everyone’s slammed. Mobile notaries are hours away. RON platforms running at capacity.

North America dominates the mobile notary market with 45% of global revenue. High demand means schedules fill fast.

Complex Requirements

Document needs witnesses you can’t find quickly. Multiple signers can’t coordinate today.

Missing Pieces

No valid ID. Document incomplete. Nobody available to help figure out what type of notarization you need.

Making It Work Under Pressure

Call Before Driving

Even with a tight deadline, call first. Confirm availability, explain what you need, ask what to bring.

Saves you from wasting gas and time.

Get Everything Together

Completed document. Valid ID. Witnesses if needed. Payment ready.

Organization speeds the process significantly.

Know What You’re Asking For

“I need this notarized” gives the notary nothing to work with. Know if you need acknowledgment, jurat, oath or verification.

Not sure? Bring the whole document and let them figure it out.

Pad Your Timeline

Deadline at 5 PM? Start looking at 2 PM, not 4:45.

Over 40 states now allow online notarization. High adoption means high demand. Buffer time saves you.

Industry Growth Tells the Story

Notary profession growing 7% annually according to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Faster than most occupations.

Why? Digital transformation plus urgent deadlines. People want documents handled now.

58.6% of notaries adopted cloud-based solutions this year. Remote work and digital tools dominate. Same-day notarization fits perfectly.

Speed Is Legal, Procedure Is Required

Same-day notarization happens thousands of times daily across Florida. No law prevents it. No court questions it. No agency rejects it.

Follow proper procedure and your notarization is valid whether it takes 10 minutes or 10 days.

Fast service costs more and demands better planning. But when you’re truly prepared, same-day notarization works exactly like scheduled notarization.Running out of time in Palm Beach or Broward County? Call Notary Plus More at (561) 218-4573 for same-day help. Evening and weekend availability.

The post Is Same-Day Notarization Legally Valid? appeared first on Notary Plus More.

This happens more than you’d think. According to the National Notary Association’s 2024 survey, 43% of people seeking notarization services don’t understand which type of notarial act their document requires. The difference between an affidavit and a declaration isn’t just technical paperwork. It determines whether you need a notary to authenticate your document and make it legally valid.

Notary protects you from fraud while giving your documents the legal weight needed for court acceptance, real estate transactions, and official proceedings. They act as impartial witnesses who verify your identity, confirm you understand what you’re signing, and ensure your signature is genuine.

Here’s what you need to know to get it right the first time.

Affidavits vs Declarations vs Sworn Statements

Affidavits require you to appear before a notary public, take an oath, and sign while they watch. The notary administers the oath (“Do you swear this statement is true?”), witnesses your signature, and completes a jurat certificate with their official seal. This authentication process ensures courts and institutions accept your sworn statement as legally valid testimony.

Declarations work differently. You sign them “under penalty of perjury” without notarization. Federal courts accept declarations under 28 U.S.C. § 1746 with identical legal weight as affidavits. Florida statute § 92.525 permits the same approach for state matters.

Sworn statements is the umbrella term for both. When someone requests a “sworn statement,” ask which type they need. The answer determines your next steps.

When Notarization Adds Legal Validity

State courts typically require notarized affidavits because the notary’s verification adds an extra layer of authenticity. Real estate transactions, financial disclosures for divorce, immigration support documents (I-134, I-864), and witness statements heading to litigation all benefit from notarial authentication.

Federal courts and some state procedures accept declarations without notarization. Administrative filings often list declarations as acceptable alternatives. Call ahead and verify what format the receiving party wants.

The Jurat Certificate Requirement

Affidavits must have jurats, not acknowledgments. Understanding the difference between notary roles helps clarify why specific certificate types matter for different documents.

A jurat confirms: “Sworn to and subscribed before me on [date] by [name].” The “sworn to” language proves you took an oath before a notary.

An acknowledgment confirms: “Acknowledged before me on [date] by [name].” This verifies you signed but doesn’t include an oath.

The jurat’s oath component is what creates the affidavit’s legal validity in court proceedings.

The Notarization Process

• Notary verifies your identity by checking your photo ID against your face
• You’ll be asked to raise your right hand and swear the statements are truthful
• Sign the document in front of the notary, they must watch you do this
• Notary stamps the document with their official seal and signs it
• Your signature and oath create the legal sworn testimony courts require

Writing Affidavits That Work

• Give it a clear title so anyone reading knows exactly what it’s about
• Number each paragraph makes it easier when someone needs to reference a specific statement
• Write like you’re telling your story: “I saw…” not “The affiant observed…”
• Stick to what you actually know firsthand not what someone told you
• Describe what happened, not your opinion about who’s right or wrong
• Sign and date it in front of the notary, nowhere else

Preparing Documents Correctly

• Show up with your document unsigned signing beforehand defeats the purpose
• Bring current ID with a clear photo and your signature visible
• Expect to pay around $5-10 cash per signature
• Make sure there are no cross-outs, white-out marks, or corrections on the document
• If you made a mistake, print a fresh copy rather than trying to fix it

When Declarations Work as Alternatives

Declarations offer a simplified option when the law permits. Federal courts accept this format: “I declare under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. Executed on [date].”

States with declaration statutes offer similar options. The legal consequences for false statements are identical whether you use an affidavit or declaration. Both carry perjury penalties.

Some attorneys prefer notarized affidavits because the visible formality of a notary’s seal and jurat adds weight in legal proceedings. The notary’s authentication provides an additional verification layer that some courts and institutions value.

Remote Notarization Technology

Video notarization lets you meet with a notary online through secure platforms. You show ID through your camera, take an oath, and sign electronically. The notary authenticates your signature remotely using identity verification technology.

Remote notarization costs $25-50 per signature. Check acceptance before booking. Federal courts generally allow remotely notarized documents. State rules vary based on their adoption of remote notarization statutes.

Why Proper Authentication Matters

According to court filing data from 2024, improperly notarized affidavits account for 22% of rejected legal filings in family court cases. Courts require specific notarial certificates because they ensure documents meet legal standards.

Financial affidavits need correct notarization for child support orders to proceed. Real estate affidavits require proper jurats for property transactions to close. Immigration affidavits must have the right certificates for applications to be processed.

Working with a qualified notary who understands these requirements helps ensure your documents are accepted the first time. Their expertise in proper authentication saves time and prevents procedural delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I notarize an affidavit if I don’t have a driver’s license? 

Your passport, state ID, or military ID works just fine. As long as it’s government-issued with your photo and signature, you’re good to go.

Do I need to bring my own notary form or does the notary provide it? 

You write and bring your affidavit, the notary handles their part. They’ll add the official certificate, stamp it with their seal, and sign after you have signed.

Can I get an affidavit notarized the same day I need it?

Usually yes. Most notaries take walk-ins or can fit you in same-day. The whole thing takes about 5-10 minutes once you’re there with your unsigned document and ID.

Getting Documents Authenticated Correctly

Affidavits need jurats from qualified notaries. Declarations skip notarization when statutes allow. Understanding which document type you need and following proper procedures ensures your paperwork is accepted.

Need professional notarization services? Contact Notary Plus More at (561) 491-9550. We provide authentication for affidavits, jurats, and all notarization types with the expertise that ensures proper documentation. Our notary services help you avoid rejections and get your documents done right the first time.

The post How to Notarize Affidavits, Declarations, and Sworn Statements Correctly appeared first on Notary Plus More.

Finalizing an international adoption or setting up legal guardianship across borders means dealing with foreign governments who want proof that your court documents are real. An apostille (issued by your state’s Department of State) gives you that proof for over 120 countries that signed the Hague Convention.

Skip the apostille and your adoption decree or guardianship order means nothing overseas. Your case could sit in limbo for months.

Which Adoption and Guardianship Documents Need Apostille

Court Documents (Must be Clerk-Certified First):

• Final adoption decrees
• Guardianship appointments
• Custody modification orders
• Termination of parental rights

Notarized Supporting Documents:

• Home study reports
• Affidavits of financial support
• Medical clearance letters
• Power of attorney documents (if applicable)

Vital Records:

• Adoptive parent birth certificates (from state Bureau of Vital Statistics)
• Marriage certificates
• FBI background checks 
• Fingerprinting (required for FBI checks)

Step-by-Step Apostille Process for Adoption Papers

Step 1: Get Court Documents Certified

Take your original adoption decree or guardianship order to your county Clerk of Circuit Court. The Clerk certifies the judge’s signature for $10-15. Only originals with raised seals work. Send a photocopy and it gets rejected immediately.

Step 2: Notarize Supporting Documents

Home studies and affidavits need certified notary services with the right acknowledgment wording and official seals. A basic notary stamp won’t cut it. The Department of State will reject anything that’s not done correctly. Understanding the difference between notarization and apostille helps avoid confusion.

Step 3: Fill Out the Apostille Request Form

Download your state’s official form from the Secretary of State website. Write down which country will receive these documents. That tells them whether to issue an apostille (for Hague countries) or an authentication certificate (for places like China that aren’t part of the treaty).

Step 4: Submit to Your State’s Secretary of State

You have two options:

In-Person: Visit your state’s apostille office during business hours. In Florida, that’s 2415 N. Monroe Street, Suite 810, Tallahassee, FL 32303 (Monday through Friday, 8am to 5pm). Most people get their documents back the same day.

By Mail: Send everything to your state’s apostille office (in Florida: P.O. Box 6800, Tallahassee, FL 32314-6800). Pack your document, the completed form, payment by check or money order (no cash or cards accepted) and a stamped envelope addressed back to yourself.

Step 5: Get Your Apostilled Documents Back

The apostille comes as a separate certificate stapled to your original document. Check it right away for any mistakes. If something’s wrong, you’re looking at sending it back and paying again. Keep in mind that while apostilles don’t expire, some countries want documents issued recently.

Apostille Fees and Real Processing Timelines

What Actually Happens:

• Mail it yourself: 2-4 weeks start to finish
• Drop it off in person: 1-3 business days
• Hire a professional service: 24-48 hours with courier

Rejection Reasons and How to Avoid Them

1. Wrong Vital Records Source Birth certificates from local health departments won’t work in most states. You need the ones from your state’s Bureau of Vital Statistics with the State Registrar’s signature (in Florida, that’s Ken Jones).

2. Self-Translated Documents Most states prohibit the translator from notarizing their own translation. Use different people or expect rejection.

3. Incomplete Notarization Missing the venue, wrong acknowledgment wording, or a blurry notary seal causes 40% of rejections right off the bat.

4. Submitting Copies Instead of Originals The DOS only authenticates original signatures and seals. Even if you got a copy certified by a notary, it still won’t be accepted.

5. Leaving Out Destination Country Leave this blank and your apostille might come back wrong. Then you’re stuck resubmitting and paying all over again when the foreign government rejects it.

Speed Up Your Adoption Apostille Processing

Bundle Documents Send all documents going to the same country in one package. Use a single apostille request form that lists everything. This keeps the whole batch together and speeds things up.

Check Before You Mail Look at each document against your state’s notary requirements. Make sure raised seals show up clearly, signatures are original and notary commissions are still current.

Handle Translations After Apostille Get your English documents apostilled first. After that, send them to certified translators for foreign language versions. Those translations get notarized by someone else and apostilled as separate documents.

Work with Local Notaries Notaries who handle adoption paperwork regularly know what your state needs. They catch problems before you waste time and money on rejected documents. In South Florida, notaries in areas like Boca Raton, Palm Beach, or Broward County specialize in these cases.

Use Courier Services When you’re racing against adoption agency deadlines, courier service to your state capital drops your wait time from weeks to 24-48 hours. These services check your documents before submission so nothing gets kicked back.

Get Your Adoption Case Moving Without Delays

Getting adoption and guardianship apostilles means following exact rules. One small mistake and you’re waiting weeks longer than you should. The gap between a two-week delay and a two-day turnaround comes down to knowing what your state’s Department of State wants before you send anything.

For families dealing with international adoption deadlines or time-sensitive guardianship issues, working with notary professionals who do this every day takes the guesswork out and speeds up your timeline. Whether you’re in South Florida or anywhere else, finding local people who understand adoption document requirements makes all the difference.

Ready to apostille your adoption or guardianship documents? Contact Notary Plus More, We’ll check your documents, make sure they meet state requirements and give you a real timeline you can count on. Your family’s next chapter shouldn’t wait on paperwork.

The post How to Apostille Adoption or Guardianship Documents for International Use appeared first on Notary Plus More.

I get it. You’ve got a job waiting. Or a license you need. And everything’s on pause because of fingerprints that didn’t scan right.

Here’s the thing – you can fix this. After walking thousands of people through Live Scan fingerprinting appointments, I’ve seen these same issues repeatedly. Let me show you what’s going wrong and how to make sure it doesn’t happen again.

Understanding Fingerprint Rejection

When fingerprints get rejected during background checks, it’s typically due to image quality issues or missing information. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and FBI both have specific standards and understanding why rejections happen helps you avoid common mistakes.

What Happens When Your Fingerprints Get Rejected?

First, you’ll get a deficiency letter.

You’ve got 90 days to fix this. The state gives you one free shot at redoing them if the problem was image quality. So you’re not paying twice.

The bad news? Everything stops. Your background check. Your application. If you needed that license by August, you’re now watching the calendar.

Understanding processing timeframes helps you plan your next move.

7 Common Reasons Fingerprints Get Rejected

Here are the most common issues that cause fingerprint rejections during background checks:

1. Dry or Cracked Skin (Most Common Cause)

This one gets almost everyone. Walk into any office building and feel that blast of air conditioning. Your hands might look fine, but tiny cracks are forming that you can’t see.

The scanner needs moisture to read your ridge patterns. When your skin’s too dry, those ridges don’t make contact. Result? Faint prints that get rejected.

Healthcare workers and teachers, you’re getting hit worst here. All that hand washing strips your oils faster than they rebuild.

Here’s how you fix it: Start a full week before. Rub in hand lotion three times a day – something oil-free that absorbs. Do this after every hand wash.

But listen – on appointment day, don’t put any lotion on. I know it sounds backwards. But fresh lotion creates smudges that are worse than dry skin. And drink water – hydration works from inside too.

2. Too Much Moisture or Lotion

Now flip to the other side. Some of you are showing up with hands so greasy from lotion that the scanner can’t read anything. Or you’re nervous (I get it – background checks are stressful), so your hands are sweating.

Either way, too much moisture smudges your prints. They come out looking like someone finger-painted and they get sent right back.

What you should do: Right before you come in, wash your hands with regular soap. Dry them completely – and I mean completely. Not damp. Bone dry.

If you’re the type who gets nervous and sweaty, take a few minutes in your car before you go in. Deep breaths. Calm yourself down. Relaxed hands give clearer prints every time.

3. Worn Fingerprints from Manual Work

If you work construction, turn wrenches, or landscape, your hands touch concrete and abrasive materials daily. Over time, it sands down your fingerprints. Those unique patterns fade.

Some of you were born with lighter ridge patterns. And age makes prints fainter naturally.

Here’s my advice: Think about timing. Just finished three days of heavy work? Wait a week. Give your hands time to recover.

Got cuts on your fingertips? Let them heal first. Wear work gloves that week before your appointment. If you’ve got a long weekend coming, schedule right after that.

4. Pressing Too Hard on the Scanner

I see this all the time. People think if they press harder, they’ll get a better print. But you’re actually making it worse.

When you push down too hard, you flatten out your fingerprint. The pressure creates these weird shadow rings around the edges. The scanner looks at that and goes “nope, can’t read this.”

It usually happens when someone gets impatient. The tech’s trying to position your finger just right and you’re thinking “why isn’t this working?” So you press harder. Don’t.

Just relax. Let your hand go completely limp. The technician knows exactly how much pressure they need. You pressing down isn’t helping – you’re making their job harder. If something feels off, tell them. But don’t try to “help” by pushing.

5. Incorrect Personal Information

Sometimes your fingerprints are perfect. But they get rejected anyway. Why? Someone typed your name wrong. Used your old address. Forgot your middle initial.

The system is incredibly picky. One typo and it bounces back.

The ORI number gets messed up a lot – that routing code telling the state where to send your results. Missing Social Security number. Address doesn’t match your current ID.

The FBI’s fingerprint submission guidelines require precise information matching across all fields to process background checks properly.

Here’s what you do: Bring all your documents. Know your ORI number before you walk in – your employer gives you this.

Then watch when they fill out forms. Double-check every field. Make sure everything matches your ID exactly. If you’re dealing with FBI clearance, they’re even pickier.

6. Inexperienced Technician or Poor Equipment

I have to be honest. Not every place that does Live Scan fingerprinting is good at it.

Some hire people with minimal training and rush appointments. They’re not checking the screen to see if the image looks good before sending it off. You find out weeks later when you get that rejection letter.

Outdated equipment makes this worse. An old scanner that’s not calibrated will mess up decent fingerprints.

Do your homework. Read reviews. A good technician checks your prints on screen right in front of you. They’ll know how to fix issues in the moment.

7. Technical Submission Errors

Sometimes everything’s perfect and it still fails. Scanner’s not calibrated. File corrupts uploading. Format’s wrong.

According to state fingerprinting requirements, all equipment must meet specific technical standards. Make sure you’re going somewhere with modern equipment that transmits electronically.

Who Faces Higher Risk of Fingerprint Rejection?

Healthcare and teaching folks – You’re washing hands way more than normal. That’s murder on your fingerprints. Take that prep time seriously.

If you work with your hands – Construction, mechanics, landscaping. Give yourself a week off heavy hand work if you can.

If you’re older – Thinner skin and fainter prints. You need someone really good at tricky prints.

Eczema, psoriasis, or dry skin conditions – Tell the technician when you sit down so they can adjust.

What to Bring to Your Appointment

Two IDs – one government-issued with photo, another showing your current address.

Your ORI number from your employer or agency. No ORI = automatic rejection.

If this is round two, bring that rejection letter. It’s got your transaction control number.

Whatever paperwork the agency sent. Bring it all.

What to Do If Your Prints Get Rejected

Go back to whoever did them first. They’ll try something different. Bring that rejection letter – it’s got the transaction number for your free resubmission.

Happens twice? The agency will probably do a name-based background check instead.

Why Live Scan Beats Traditional Ink Fingerprinting

Remember ink pad fingerprints? Those are terrible. The ink’s always wrong, cards get smudged, they get lost in mail.

Live Scan fixes that. The technician sees your prints on screen right there. If something doesn’t look right, they redo it immediately. You’re not waiting three weeks to find out there’s a problem.

Everything goes straight to the processing center electronically.What shows up on your check comes back faster – usually 24 to 72 hours for FBI checks.

Get Your Fingerprints Done Right the First Time

Most fingerprint rejections come down to simple stuff. Dry hands. Fresh lotion. Wrong forms. Someone who didn’t know what they were doing.

You don’t have time to deal with rejection twice. So moisturize for a week before. Show up with clean, dry hands. Bring all your paperwork and check those forms. Find someone who checks prints on screen before sending them.

Need fingerprinting services nearby? Find a provider that’s approved and understands what causes rejections.

At Notary Plus More, we’re approved by FDLE, FBI and FINRA. We check every fingerprint on screen while you’re sitting there. If something doesn’t look right, we fix it immediately. No surprise rejection letters three weeks later. Get your fingerprints done right the first time.

The post Why Fingerprints Get Rejected and How to Avoid Errors appeared first on Notary Plus More.

Hundreds of South Florida families scramble during the holiday season to complete critical paperwork before year-end deadlines. Here’s what needs immediate attention and how to get it properly notarized before December 31st.

1. Estate Planning Documents That Require Immediate Attention

Last Will and Testament

Florida has its own set of rules for wills that don’t match what you’ll find in other states. According to Florida Statute 732.502, your will needs to be:

• Signed by two witnesses
• Signed by you (the testator)
• Notarized to make it “self-proving”

That self-proving affidavit is a big deal. Without it, someone’s going to have to track down your witnesses during probate and that could be 20 or 30 years from now. Good luck with that.

Durable Power of Attorney

Under Florida Statute 709.2105, Powers of Attorney must be signed in front of two witnesses and a notary. It’s not optional. Without this document:

• Your family might face expensive guardianship proceedings
• Court processes can drag on for months
• Medical and financial decisions become a nightmare

Healthcare Directives

Your Healthcare Surrogate designation and Living Will need proper witnessing. Technically, notarization isn’t always required by law, but here’s the thing hospitals want to see that notary stamp. It cuts through red tape when doctors need to make critical decisions fast.

Why December Matters

Getting your estate planning wrapped up before year-end gives you three real advantages:

Tax planning coordination – Your updated documents sync up with year-end financial strategies

Beneficiary verification – Life insurance and retirement accounts won’t update beneficiaries without the paperwork

Property title adjustments – Real estate planning usually has to be done in December for tax reasons

Mobile notary services make this easier by bringing witnesses and everything else straight to your house. You can get the whole family together in one shot.

2. Real Estate Closing Documents Before Year-End

Critical Documents Requiring Notarization

Closing on property before January? These documents all need a notary:

• Warranty Deeds and Quit Claim Deeds – Transfer ownership between parties
• Mortgage and Security Instruments – Create lien against property for lenders
• Affidavits of Occupancy – Certify primary residence status
• Subordination Agreements – Establish lien priority for refinancing

State-Specific Requirements

Here’s what Florida requires on your deed:

• Grantor and grantee signatures
• Two witness signatures
• Notary acknowledgment and seal
• Spouse signature for homestead properties (yes, even if they don’t own it)

Quick note: Your notary can act as the second witness, but they’ve got to sign twice once as a witness and once in their notary capacity. Knowing the execution requirements for real estate documents prevents closing delays and ensures legal compliance..

December Closing Challenges

Holiday closings are rough:

• Title companies run on skeleton crews
• Getting everyone coordinated is like herding cats
• Fixing mistakes takes forever when everyone’s short-staffed
• Courier services are backed up with holiday volume

Book your notary appointment early and save yourself the headache.

3. Business and Financial Year-End Documents

If your business is closing out the fiscal year, you probably need notarization for:

• Corporate resolutions and operating agreements
• Financial affidavits and sworn statements
• Partnership agreements and amendments
• Commercial loan documents
• Business tax certifications

Timing Impact: Getting these notarized and recorded before December 31st can make or break loan applications, business valuations and tax filings.

Remote Online Notarization for Business Documents

Florida approved remote online notarization back in 2019 (Chapter 2019-71, Laws of Florida) and it’s been a game-changer for year-end document completion.

With remote online notarization, you can:

• Get documents notarized from literally anywhere with WiFi
• Stay compliant with Florida statutes
• Use notary services at 9 PM if that’s what works
• Handle multiple documents in 30-45 minutes

RON Requirements: You’ll need decent internet, a device with a camera and microphone and a government-issued photo ID. The notary has to be physically in Florida during the session, but you can be anywhere.

4. International Documents and Apostille Services

Time-Sensitive International Documents

December is probably the worst time to need apostille services. The Department of State typically takes 6-8 weeks to process them, though you can pay extra for expedited same-day service.

Common documents that need apostille before year-end:

• Birth certificates for citizenship applications
• Powers of attorney for overseas property deals
• Educational credentials for foreign jobs
• Corporate documents for international business
• Background checks for work visas

Getting your immigration documents properly notarized keeps visa applications, citizenship processes and international travel plans on track.

Apostille Process Timing

Most families don’t think about document authentication until after they’ve booked their holiday flights. Then it’s panic mode. Standard processing doesn’t stop for holidays, which makes December absolutely nuts for apostille services. And while your actual passport can’t be notarized, a lot of supporting documents for international travel need both notarization and apostille certification.

Pro tip: Give yourself at least 3-4 weeks for apostille procedures. You’ll need that buffer for unexpected delays.

5. How to Get Documents Notarized Before December 31st

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Gather and verify all documents – Missing information causes delays when you need to notarize documents during December’s rush.

2. Schedule appointments early – Each December week gets progressively busier as people realize pending deadlines.

3. Confirm requirements – Florida Statute 117.05 establishes specific notarization requirements. Licensed notaries know exactly which documents need witnesses, special notarial language, or additional authentication.

4. Bring valid ID – Acceptable identification includes unexpired driver’s license, U.S. passport, or other government-issued photo ID.

5. Never pre-sign documents – Notaries must witness your signature firsthand.

Why Professional Notary Services Matter

Experienced notaries understand:

• State’s unique two-witness requirements
• Proper notarial certificate language
• Self-proving affidavit procedures
• Complex year-end deadline situations
• Document recording requirements

Mobile notary services eliminate holiday traffic concerns and allow multiple family members to sign estate documents together in one convenient session.

Quick Questions

Q: How much does this cost?

Florida caps notary fees at $10 per signature. Remote notarization runs up to $25 per signature. Mobile notaries charge travel fees on top.

Q: Can they notarize documents from other states?

Yep. As long as you show up in person (or via remote notarization), they can notarize anything.

Q: What’s an acknowledgment vs. a jurat?

Acknowledgments just verify your identity and signature. Jurats mean you’re swearing the content is true.

Take Action Before Year-End Deadlines

December doesn’t mean document chaos. Expert notarization services make your important paperwork legally compliant before January 1st arrives. Ready to complete your year-end documents? Contact Notary Plus More to schedule mobile or remote online notarization services. We serve Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach Counties with same-day availability for urgent year-end needs.

The post Essential Documents to Notarize in Florida Before the Year Ends appeared first on Notary Plus More.