Frequently asked questions

A notary public is a professional authorized by the state to perform legal duties related to document verification. That includes witnessing signatures and verifying identity, administering oaths and affirmations, certifying copies, providing acknowledgments, performing loan signings, and assisting with apostille services for international document validation.

Valid ID: an original, current government-issued photo ID. Documents: complete but unsigned — we need to witness your signature. Payment: ready at time of service. Witnesses: present if your documents require them. For financial or legal matters, bring any supporting documents for context.

No. Documents must be complete before notarization — we cannot notarize documents with blank spaces or missing information.

A valid government-issued photo ID, a computer, tablet, or smartphone with stable internet and a webcam, access to the notarization platform, your prepared documents, and a quiet, distraction-free space. Being responsive during the session keeps everything smooth.

Oregon statutory fees are $10 per notarization, with each additional signature on the same document $10. Travel fees vary by location. For a complete quote tailored to your needs, contact us directly. We accept Venmo, PayPal, Zelle, cash, and credit/debit cards.

A $25 non-refundable deposit is required at booking and is applied toward your final service fee. The deposit is non-refundable in the case of no-shows or same-day cancellations. If you are not present within 15 minutes of your scheduled time, the deposit is forfeited.

Yes — please provide 24+ hours notice to apply your deposit to a new appointment time. Changes with less than 24 hours' notice require a new deposit. Emergency situations are considered case by case.

Yes! A notary public can serve as your authorized representative to complete Section 2 of Form I-9. The notary is not notarizing the form — they act on your behalf to review documents and complete the employer section. See full I-9 details →

Unexpired original documents from the USCIS Lists of Acceptable Documents: one List A document (like a U.S. Passport) OR one List B document (like a driver's license) plus one List C document (like a Social Security card).

An apostille is an official certificate that authenticates the origin of a public document for use in foreign countries. Issued under the Hague Convention of 1961, it verifies the signature, seal, or stamp on your document so it's recognized internationally — an international "stamp of approval" that proves your U.S. document is legitimate.

Regular notarization verifies your identity and that you signed willingly. An apostille goes further — it certifies that the notary's signature and seal are authentic for international use. You typically need both: first the document is notarized, then it receives an apostille.

Oregon State (standard): 10–15 business days. Oregon State (expedited): 24–48 hours. Electronic apostille: 3–5 business days. FBI apostille: federal processing timeline. Embassy legalization: 6–12 weeks for non-Hague countries. We handle all submissions, tracking, and coordination.

No — that's why you hire us. We pick up your documents (or you mail them), prepare and submit to the appropriate agency, track processing, and return your completed documents securely. You never have to drive to Salem or deal with government offices. See apostille packages →

Never laminate apostilled documents. Many countries reject laminated documents because they can't verify the apostille seal is authentic. Use protective sleeves or folders instead.