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Victoria Scales

v.scales@scalesnotary.com

(707)726-1080

What to Bring:

  1. The Document: The original, non-expired document you need notarized (photocopies are not accepted for ID).

  2. Your Signature: You must sign the document in the notary's presence.

  3. Valid Identification:

    • Primary: California Driver's License/ID, U.S. Passport/Card, U.S. Military ID, Mexican/Canadian Driver's License, or State-issued ID from another state.

    • Requirements for ID: Must be current (or issued within the last 5 years), have your photo, signature, physical description, and an identifying number. 

Key Things to Remember:

  • No Blank Spaces: The document must be fully completed before the notary sees it.

  • Sign in Front: You must sign the document in the notary's presence.

  • No Legal Advice: The notary cannot explain the document or give legal advice.

  • Thumbprints: A thumbprint might be required for documents affecting real property. 

Service Fees:

A travel fee of $45 is charged in advance for travel time beyond 30 minutes from Fortuna, CA.

The IRS mileage rate for 2026 for Business use is 72.5 cents per mile. This will be calculated and agreed upon beforehand.

In California, notaries can charge a maximum of $15 per signature for most standard acts like acknowledgments and jurats, but can add extra fees for travel or other services, provided the signer is informed beforehand. Fees can also vary for specific services, such as depositions or certifying a Power of Attorney, with the $15 cap applying per signature for these as well.  

Maximum Fees Per Act (Per Signature/Event) 

  • Acknowledgment: $15 per signature 

  • Jurat: $15 per signature (includes administering oath/affirmation) 

  • Administering Oath or Affirmation: $15 (if not part of a jurat) 

  • Certifying a Copy of a Power of Attorney: $15 per copy  

Other Notarial Acts 

  • Deposition Witness Oath: Up to $7 for administering the oath. 

  • Deposition (General Services): Up to $30 for all other related services, excluding witness oath and certificate.  

Important Considerations 

  • Travel Fees: Mobile notaries can charge extra for travel but must disclose these additional costs upfront. 

  • Disclosure is Key: Any extra fees for travel or other support must be clearly communicated to the signer before the service is performed. 

  • Lower Fees Allowed: A notary can charge less than the maximum fee or offer free services, but must record the actual fee charged in their journal.