Home Notary Visit in West Covina: Set Up for a Smooth Signing

A notary visiting your home is one of the simplest ways to get a document done, and a little preparation makes it simpler still. If you are in West Covina and have booked, or are about to, this is the walk-through to use on the day.

Set the table

Choose a flat, well-lit spot, such as a kitchen or dining table. Clear it of anything that could spill on paperwork. Have a pen with blue or black ink ready, though we usually bring our own for the notarial portions. If someone signing has trouble seeing, make sure there is enough light to read the document comfortably.

Gather the signers

Everyone who needs to sign should be home and ready at the arranged time. A signer who steps out for an errand cannot be notarized in their absence. Make sure each person is in a state to understand what they are signing. If you are signing for a relative who is ill or tired, pick a time of day when they are most alert and comfortable.

Put the papers in order

Stack the documents in the sequence the requesting party wants them. Make sure every page is there. Leave signature lines blank unless you have been told otherwise, so the signing can be done in front of us. If a document has a notary block, we complete it. If the block is missing, we cannot decide which one should go on, and we will ask you to check with the requesting party.

IDs within reach

Put each signer's photo ID on top of their paperwork so no one is searching through a wallet or a drawer. Check that the ID is current. Names that differ between the ID and the document should be mentioned to us up front.

Think about the entrance

• Is there a gate, call box or buzzer? Give us the code or make sure someone can answer.

• Is parking on the street or in a lot? Tell us where.

• Are there stairs or an elevator? A mobile notary carries a bag, and clear directions save time.

What we do on arrival

We greet everyone, explain the order, and check IDs. We confirm that each signer understands and is willing. We watch the signing, complete the certificate, and record the act in the journal, which each signer also signs.

Things we cannot do

We cannot give legal advice, explain what your document means in legal terms, or choose the type of notarization. If you need those answers, an attorney or the requesting office can help before the visit.

Keep it calm

A quiet home with a few minutes of focus makes for a clean signing. Turn off the TV, keep young children occupied, and let everyone take their time reading.

Home visits can also be paired with other needs. If someone in your household needs mobile Live Scan, ask whether it can be done on the same visit.

Tell us your West Covina location and preferred time when you book.

Book now:  or call 310-919-0135.