When I perform an acknowledgment, jurat (verification on oath/affirmation), or other notarial act, I will verify the signer’s identity, witness the signature or oath, and complete the notarial certificate with our stamp and signature. The $15 per signature fee covers the notarial act itself. If you have multiple documents or signers, I will explain how many notarial acts are needed and confirm the total before proceeding. I do not charge for services like offering an oath or affirmation unless it’s part of a notarization that requires it (the notarization fee already covers it). Washington law also allows us to charge actual copying fees if I make copies of documents for you, but typically for a standard notarization this isn’t needed.

Pricing Table – Standard Notarial Acts:

As a mobile notary I travel to your location to provide convenient service. In Washington, travel fees are separate from the notarization fee. I set a fair travel charge that you agree to it in advance. I always disclose and agree upon the travel fee up front before I come to you. The travel fee compensates for my time, mileage, and transportation costs, and it is in addition to the state-capped notarization fees. Below is my typical travel fee structure and policies:

• Base Service Area & Flat Fees:
  For appointments within a 15 mile radius of me, Lake Stevens, I have a base travel fee that covers travel within a certain radius of my home office. This base fee ensures I can cover time and fuel for even the shortest trips. I also set a minimum service fee for any mobile visit (for instance, a minimum charge of around $50–$75 total, which would include the travel fee and at least one notarization) so that very small jobs still justify the trip. This minimum will be quoted to you if applicable, so you’ll know the cost even if you only have one document to notarize.

• Distance-Based Mileage Fees:
  If your location is farther away than 15 miles, I typically add a per-mile charge beyond the per-mile rate, usually around $0.65 to $1.00 per mile (round-trip) for travel outside the local area. This rate is based on the IRS mileage standards and local fuel costs. I strive to keep my mileage fees reasonable and will quote the exact amount once I know the appointment address. Example: If you are 20 miles away (round-trip 40 miles), and beyond the flat-fee zone, the travel surcharge might be the base fee plus, say, $0.75 × 30 extra miles = $22.50, for a total travel fee of about $X (base) + $22.50.

• After-Hours or Urgent Appointments:
  I accommodate evenings, weekends, and rush requests whenever possible. However, appointments outside normal business hours may incur a modest surcharge due to the inconvenience and urgency. This after-hours surcharge is generally in the range of $25–$50 (depending on how late or short-notice the request is). For example, a notarization request at 10:00 PM or a same-day urgent request might include an added fee in this range. This practice is in line with industry norms – many notaries charge an additional fee for late-night service or holidays, reflecting the premium service level. I will always inform you beforehand if an after-hours or rush surcharge applies, and you can choose to proceed or schedule at a regular time.

Rural Area or Difficult Trip Surcharge:
If your location is particularly remote, hard to reach, or requires special travel (for example, a ferry ride to an island, or a trip to a mountainous area), I may quote a higher travel fee to cover the extra time and expense. This could be a flat surcharge (e.g. an additional $20) or a higher per-mile rate beyond a certain distance. I will base this on the specifics (ferry fares, etc.) and discuss it with you. My goal is to still serve all areas of Snohomish, Skagit, Whatcom, and Island counties, but I have to account for travel that significantly exceeds typical drive times. I always make it clear that any travel fee is negotiable and agreed in advance, and not required by law – it’s a convenience fee for bringing the service to you.

All travel fees will be clearly listed on your receipt separate from the notarization charges. I follow Washington’s guidelines to keep travel fees distinct and reasonable. If an appointment falls through or cannot be completed (e.g., the signer isn’t available at the agreed time), our policy on travel fee refunds or reduced charges will be communicated (generally, if I’ve already traveled, a portion of the fee may still be due to cover the trip, but I handle these on a case-by-case basis). Rest assured, you’ll never be surprised by travel charges – everything is agreed upon beforehand.

My notary services often involve handling documents beyond the act of notarization, especially for real estate transactions or other paperwork-intensive assignments. I aim to be transparent about any printing, copying, or document handling fees that could apply. Here is how I approach these charges:

• Document Printing (Black & White):
  If you need me to print documents for you (for example, e-docs for a loan signing or forms emailed to us), I charge a per-page printing fee. My standard rate is $0.15 per page for black and white printing on standard letter or legal size paper. I have both letter (8.5”x11”) and legal (8.5”x14”) paper and will print in the correct size as the documents require (most loan packages contain a mix of both sizes). I use high-speed laser printers to ensure clear, professional print quality. Industry standard: Black-and-white printing fees typically range from about $0.10 to $0.25 per page. My rate is on the lower end of that range to keep your costs reasonable. I do not charge extra for legal-size pages – they are counted the same as letter pages in our fee calculation.

• Loan Package Print Bundles:
  For large sets of documents (such as mortgage loan packages, which often run 100–200 pages or more), I usually cap the print fee with a flat rate. For example, if I print two sets of a 150-page refinance package (one set for signing, one borrower copy, totaling ~300 pages), my printing charge might be a flat $25 (instead of charging per page, which could be higher). This bundle pricing saves you money on big jobs. I’ll quote a print fee upfront once I know the size of the file. This fee covers the toner, paper, wear on equipment, and time to organize the documents. If your package is unusually large (e.g., 300+ pages per set) or requires multiple copies, I may adjust the fee accordingly, but I will discuss it with you.

• Copies and Miscellaneous Printing:
  If you need additional copies of already signed/notarized documents (for personal records, etc.), I can provide those as well. Copying is charged similarly at $0.15 per page. My goal is it to cover printing tasks. I also can receive and print email attachments or digital documents for you if you are unable to print them yourself.

• Scanning or Faxing Documents:
  In some cases (especially for loan signings), clients or lenders request that the completed documents be scanned and sent back immediately after signing (so they can begin processing while the originals are in transit). I do offer scanning services after the signing. If I need to scan a large set of documents, I charge approximately $0.20–$0.25 per page for scanning and secure electronic delivery. For example, if a 100-page package needs to be scanned to PDF and emailed/uploaded, the fee might be around $20–$25. This covers the time to scan and review that all pages are legible. I will clarify any such fee in advance based on the request from the document issuer.

No Hidden “Admin” Fees:
Aside from printing and travel, I generally do not tack on any other fees for things like envelopes, postage (unless I am specifically mailing something for you), or office supplies used during the signing. If, for instance, a return shipping label is not provided and I need to purchase postage or courier service to deliver your documents, I will charge the actual cost of the shipping (and give you the receipt) plus possibly a small handling fee if the mailing requires a special trip. Typically, for overnight envelopes I expect a pre-paid label from whoever is receiving the documents. When provided, I will drop off your package at no extra charge aside from the agreed travel fee. I aim to keep my pricing straightforward: Notary act fees, travel fees, and any printing/scanning fees if applicable – all disclosed ahead of time.

I specialize in a variety of loan signing services, acting as a Notary Signing Agent for real estate and loan transactions. These services involve facilitating the signing of comprehensive mortgage document packages for home purchases, sales, refinances, and other loan types. Unlike a simple one-page notarization, loan signings are lengthy appointments (often 45-90 minutes) and require expertise in guiding the signer through a stack of documents. I ensure all signatures, initials, and notarizations are done correctly and that documents are promptly returned to the lender or title company. Below is a breakdown of different types of loan signings I handle, with typical pricing and explanations:

• Home Purchase (Buyer’s Loan Package):
  When you’re buying a home with a mortgage, there is a large set of documents for the buyer/borrower to sign at closing. This can include the loan agreement, deed of trust, closing disclosures, and many affidavits and disclosures. Buyer packages are often around 100–150 pages and may involve one or two borrowers signing. My fee for a standard purchase closing is typically in the range of $150 to $175. This fee is a flat rate that includes all notarizations required (often 4–10 notarized documents in the package), and returning the documents via courier. I do not charge $15 for each notarization separately in a loan package context (that would add up to much more; instead, I bundle it). The fee reflects the time and expertise involved.
  Rationale: Purchase signings sometimes involve coordinating with multiple parties (realtors, attorneys, etc.) and careful review of documents.

• Refinance Loan Signing:
  A refinance involves signing a new loan to replace an existing mortgage. The document package for a refinance is similar in size to a purchase – roughly 100–150 pages – and usually includes a new note, deed of trust, closing disclosure, and other lender forms. My typical fee for a refinance signing is about $150 (range $125–$150 for most cases). This fee covers multiple notarizations, and dropping off the documents. Refinances are very common assignments for notaries. I’ll guide you through each document (the note, mortgage, escrow papers, etc.) to ensure you’re comfortable signing.
  Rationale: I price refinance signings on par with purchase signings because the work and package size are comparable.

• Seller’s Package (Home Sale):
  In a home sale, the seller also has documents to sign, though typically fewer than a buyer with a loan. A seller’s documents might include the deed, affidavit of title, settlement statement, and a few authorizations – often 20–50 pages of paperwork. I charge less for a seller-only signing due to the smaller scope. My fee for a standard seller’s package is usually around $100 to $125. This covers meeting with the seller, executing all documents, notarizing deed and any affidavits, and returning the documents. If the sale is taking place at the same time as a purchase closing (for example, a couple selling one house and buying another on the same day), and I handle both sides, I can offer a combined pricing arrangement.
  Rationale: Seller packages generally take less time (maybe 30 minutes) since there is no loan to go through, and fewer notarized docs. I reflect that in a lower fee.

• Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) or Second Mortgage:
  HELOC or second mortgage signings are usually smaller packages. A HELOC might be around 50–100 pages and often only a few notarizations (the mortgage/deed and perhaps a rider or two). These appointments are often quicker, sometimes 30 minutes or less. My fee for a standalone HELOC signing is typically around $75 to $100. I set a lower fee for these because they’re simpler than a full purchase/refi. However, if a HELOC is done in conjunction with another signing (e.g., a piggyback second loan along with a primary mortgage), I will quote a combined fee.

• Reverse Mortgage:
  Reverse mortgage signings are larger and more complex, often 150–200 pages, and the borrowers are typically seniors who may need a bit more time and explanation. I take great care and patience with reverse mortgage clients. Due to the additional time (sometimes 1.5 to 2 hours) and extra documents involved, my fee for a reverse mortgage signing is higher – generally in the range of $175 to $200. This fee includes careful execution of all forms (including any required witness signatures, etc.).
  Rationale: Reverse mortgages require a thorough, unhurried approach. Industry fees for reverse mortgage signings are commonly higher to compensate for the added complexity. I allocate extra time in our schedule for these appointments so that the signer never feels rushed.

• Commercial Loan or Other Specialty Signings:
  I can facilitate signings for commercial loans, business loans, or construction loans, which often involve corporate entities, multiple guarantors, or very large document sets. These assignments are quoted on a case-by-case basis, but generally expect a higher fee due to the complexity and size. A commercial loan signing might be $200 and up, depending on the number of notarizations and the coordination required. Often, commercial deals might have me working with attorneys or multiple parties, and I’ll ensure all requirements (like corporate seals or resolutions) are handled.
  Rationale: Commercial deals vary widely. Some might be straightforward property loans similar to residential refinances (just bigger), while others are multifaceted. I base my fee on an estimate of time and effort. I will always discuss the scope with you or the title company and provide a quote.

Included Services:
All my loan signing fees include the following: receiving documents from the lender or escrow (usually via email), conducting the signing with meticulous attention to detail, answering general questions (notary agents are not attorneys, but I’m trained to answer common process questions and know when to direct a question to a loan officer or attorney if it’s outside my scope), making required notarizations (several documents in the package will require notarization, all of which I perform within the fee), and handling shipping of the documents back. I either drop the package at a FedEx/UPS location with a prepaid label or deliver directly to the title office, as instructed, at no extra charge. If scanbacks are required by the lender, I will do those promptly (scan fees, if any, will be discussed as mentioned in the printing section).

Note: I am an NNA-certified Notary Signing Agent, familiar with all the common loan documents. I carry $1,000,000 Errors & Omissions insurance (for your protection) and have completed background checks. These credentials give confidence to title companies and lenders that I will execute the signing professionally. If you are a title or escrow company looking for a reliable notary in Snohomish, Skagit, Whatcom, or Island County, please contact me about direct business pricing. I offer competitive rates for direct clients.

Pricing Summary – Loan Signings: (Ranges below include all required notarizations.)

I offer Remote Online Notarization (RON) as an alternative to in-person service for clients who prefer to sign documents electronically. RON allows the signer and notary to be in different locations while completing a notarization via a secure audio-video platform. This can be extremely convenient – you can get your document notarized from the comfort of your home or office in Snohomish County or anywhere, as long as you have an internet connection. Below we outline how our RON service works, the legal requirements in Washington, and the pricing for RON appointments:

• Legality and Technology:
  RON is legal in Washington State. In fact, Washington enacted permanent laws authorizing online notarization in 2020 (effective March 2021). We are commissioned as Electronic Records Notaries in WA, which means we’re authorized to perform notarial acts using approved communication technology. In a RON session, you will appear before the notary via a two-way live video call. The experience is similar to a Zoom or Skype call, but through a specialized notary platform that meets state security standards. Washington law requires that the notary verify the identity of the remote signer through reliable methods. Typically, this means you will complete a multi-factor identification process: you’ll submit a photo of your government ID for analysis, and you’ll answer a series of knowledge-based security questions (KBA) drawn from public records (for example, questions about past addresses or vehicles you’ve owned). These steps happen on the RON platform before the notary actually appears on video. Once identity is confirmed, we proceed with the audio-video meeting. The notary and signer can see and hear each other in real time, and the document is signed electronically. The notary then applies an electronic seal and digital signature.

• RON Legal Constraints:
  I follow all Washington State RON requirements, which are quite rigorous to protect you. Washington notaries must keep a recording of the online notarization session for at least 10 years. I securely store the video of your notarization (as required by law) in an encrypted archive. The notary also records the transaction in an electronic journal (including details like date, time, type of act, names of participants, and how identity was verified). It’s important to note that remote notarization is legally equivalent to in-person notarization – Washington law and the U.S. Full Faith and Credit clause ensure that a document notarized online has the same legal effect as one notarized on paper. (I do advise checking that the recipient of your document accepts electronic notarization; most do, especially for common forms and real estate documents in Washington. Certain documents like wills or birth certificate copies might have restrictions on remote notarization, so please inquire if you’re unsure.) During a RON, all standard notary rules apply – the notary will check that the document is complete, confirm your willingness and understanding, administer an oath if it’s a jurat, etc., just as we would in person.

• Requirements for You (Signer):
  To use my RON service, you will need: (1) a reliable internet connection, (2) a device with a webcam and microphone (a computer is preferred, but a tablet or smartphone can work if needed), (3) a government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license or passport) for identity verification, and (4) the ability to answer some personal history questions for identity proofing (these are generated from public/credit records – e.g., “Which of these addresses have you been associated with?”). You do not need any special software – I will send you a link to my secure RON platform. The system will guide you through the ID upload and verification steps. The entire appointment usually takes 15 minutes or less once you’re logged in. If you’re not very tech-savvy, don’t worry – the platform is user-friendly, and I can assist you by phone through the setup if needed. One important legal point: as the notary, we must be physically located in Washington State during the RON, but you (the signer) can be located anywhere – within Washington, out of state, even outside the U.S., as long as the notarization meets WA’s requirements for remote individuals. (If you are outside the U.S., there are a couple of extra steps per Washington law – for example, the document should relate to a U.S. jurisdiction or you are a U.S. resident. I’ll help ensure everything is in order if notarizing for an overseas client.)

• Pricing for RON:
  The fee for a remote online notarization in Washington can be up to $25 per notarial act. This is a higher cap than the $15 for in-person, reflecting the added value of the technology and convenience. Our RON pricing is as follows: $25 for the first notarized document (seal) in a remote session, and $10 for each additional notarization in the same session. For example, if you have one document to notarize (one seal), it’s $25 total. If you have three documents (or one document with three separate notarizations), it would be $25 for the first + $10 + $10 for the second and third, totaling $45. This tiered approach is designed to save you money when you have multiple docs at once. No travel fees apply for RON, of course. The fee you pay covers the use of the secure platform, identity verification process, electronic journal and recording storage, and the notary’s time. I will take payment electronically.

• Comparison: RON vs. Mobile Notary:
  You might be wondering whether to choose an online notarization or an in-person visit. Here are some considerations to help you decide:
  • Convenience:
    RON can be done from anywhere, eliminating travel for both you and us. If you have a tight schedule, are outside our travel radius, or simply prefer to avoid meeting in person (for health or logistical reasons), RON is extremely convenient.
  • Document Type:
    Most documents that can be notarized in person can also be notarized via RON. Washington explicitly accepts electronic signatures and notarizations as valid. However, if your document explicitly requires ink signatures or has a stipulation against electronic notarization, you would need an in-person notarization. Examples might include certain real estate deeds if the county recorder isn’t eRecording, or foreign jurisdiction documents – always check the requirements of the receiving party.
  • Cost:
    For a single document or a couple of documents, RON may be more cost-effective – for instance, one notarization via RON is $25, which might be less than our minimum mobile trip fee. If you had two documents, that’s $35 via RON ($25 + $10), still likely cheaper than paying a travel fee for me to come to you. However, if you have many notarizations to do at once (say a stack of 5–10 documents), an in-person appointment might be more economical because I’d charge one travel fee and then $15 per notarization (total might cap out around a certain amount), whereas via RON it would be $25 a pop. I can advise you based on what you need notarized. Often, a single real estate deed or a power of attorney is perfect for RON – quick and easy.
  • Technology Comfort:
    If you are comfortable with a virtual meeting and online forms, RON is very straightforward. If you are not, an in-person meeting might feel easier. I’ve had clients in their 90s successfully complete RON by simply clicking a link and following prompts, but I understand everyone’s preference is different.
  • Legality and Security:
    Both methods are secure and legal. RON provides a video record and detailed audit trail of the notarization, which actually exceeds the record-keeping of a traditional notarization. Each electronic notarization includes a digital certificate and tamper-evident seal. In-person notarizations rely on the paper record and the notary’s journal entry for proof. From a legal standpoint, both are valid in Washington; it largely comes down to convenience and client preference.

In summary, Remote Online Notarization is a modern, efficient option now available in Washington. I have invested in this technology to better serve clients who cannot easily meet in person. Whether you choose RON or a traditional mobile notary visit, you will receive professional, legally sound service. Feel free to ask which option best suits your situation – I’m happy to explain more or guide you through the RON process if it’s new to you.

Pricing Summary – Remote Online Notary:

In addition to notarization, I offer a range of related services that complement our notary business. These services cater to legal, real estate, and business needs that often arise alongside notarizations. Below is a menu of these services, including Process Serving, I-9 employment verifications, and Courier deliveries. For each service, I explain what it entails, whether a notary is authorized to do it in Washington, and how I price the service. All these services are provided in a professional, confidential manner, backed by my experience and understanding of industry standards.

Whether it’s process serving, I-9 verification, or courier work, I approach each task with professionalism and confidentiality. My goal is to be a one-stop solution for many of the services a law firm, title company, or busy individual might need in the realm of document execution and verification. By consolidating these offerings, I build a trusted relationship with our clients – you know you can call me for a variety of needs and expect consistent, quality service. Below is a quick reference pricing table for these ancillary services, but please contact me for an exact quote as many factors can influence the final price.

Pricing Table – Additional Services: