Question 1

What is a notary public?

Accepted Answer

A notary public is an official appointed by the state to serve as an impartial witness to the signing of important documents. Notaries verify the identity of signers, ensure they are signing willingly, and help prevent fraud.

Question 2

What documents can be notarized?

Accepted Answer

We notarize affidavits, powers of attorney, real estate documents, wills, trusts, contracts, loan documents, and many other documents. Vital records such as birth, marriage, and death certificates cannot be notarized and require apostille routing through the state.

Question 3

Do I need to bring anything to my notary appointment?

Accepted Answer

Yes — bring a valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, U.S. passport, military ID, or permanent resident card) and the unsigned document. Do not sign the document before meeting the notary.

Question 4

What is an apostille?

Accepted Answer

An apostille is a certificate that authenticates the origin of a public document for use in a country that is a member of the Hague Convention of 1961. It verifies the signature, seal, or stamp of the document issuer.

Question 5

How long does the apostille process take?

Accepted Answer

Standard Missouri apostille service typically takes 5–10 business days. Expedited service runs 2–3 business days, and rush service is 24–48 hours. FBI background check apostilles through the U.S. Department of State take 4–6 weeks standard or 2–3 weeks expedited.

Question 6

Do you offer mobile notary services?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We come to your home, office, hospital, or other location across the St. Louis metro area. A travel fee based on distance is calculated at checkout before you confirm the booking.

Question 7

Do I pay when I book or at the appointment?

Accepted Answer

Notary services are pay-at-appointment — no upfront charge to book. Apostille orders require a 50% deposit when scheduled, with the remaining balance due once the document is returned from the state.

Question 8

What forms of ID are acceptable for notarization?

Accepted Answer

Valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID: driver's license, state-issued ID card, U.S. passport, military ID, or permanent resident card. The physical original is required — photos, scans, or digital wallet copies are not accepted under Missouri law.

Frequently Asked Questions