FAQs

FAQs

At Merl Notary Services in Northern Virginia, we understand that navigating the notary process can raise questions, especially when it comes to your important document signing needs. Our goal is to answer all your questions about in-person and online notary signing agents and how they can help get all your ducks in a row. You’ll find everything you need right here —from what to expect to why you need a notary!

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What Is a Notary?

A notary public (or also known as just a notary) is a person authorized by the state of Virginia to witness signatures, administer oaths, and perform other duties related to the authenticity of documents. Whether you work with an in-person or online notary, these agents from Merl Notary Services help certify the authenticity of documents to ensure they’re valid.

Why Do You Need an In-Person or Online Notary?

A notary’s job is to verify the identities of a document’s signers as a neutral witness and ensure they are signing willingly and without coercion, which helps prevent fraud.

What Should You Bring to a Notary Appointment?

You should bring valid government-issued identification (like a driver's license or passport) and any documents you need notarized.

What Documents Need to Be Notarized?

Merl Notary Services and our notary signing agents can help authenticate several different document types. A few common types of documents we work with include:

  • Real estate contracts and property deeds

  • Legal affidavits

  • Loan documents

  • Powers of attorney

  • Estate planning documents

  • Motor vehicle transfers of title

Are There Different Types of Notaries?

Yes. Traditional notary publics offer in-person singing assistance in a certain location, whereas mobile notaries can travel to a specific location to perform the same duties. An online notary can ensure the same authentication results but through a trusted, verified, and safe online platform. When it come to specific areas of practice, Merl Notary Services clients may work with an:

  • Escrow Notary: A person who specializes in the notarization of documents related to real estate transactions held in escrow.

  • Mortgage Notary: A person who is responsible for notarizing mortgage-related documents, such as loan agreements, disclosures, and other paperwork needed to secure financing for purchasing real estate.

  • Loan Signing Notary: Also known as a notary signing agent, this is a specialized notary public who conducts loan signings, ensuring that all necessary documents are signed correctly by borrowers.

Get Verified Online Notary Services Now

Contact Merl Notary Services now to get all your notary signing agent questions answered and to get any documents authenticated. Learn more about how you can get in-person and online results now!

Book Now