This is so true. Estate planning signings require careful attention to instructions, especially when it comes to originals, scanbacks, witnesses, and notarized pages. A quick review before the appointment can save everyone time and avoid confusion later.

This question actually came up today. I explained that I cannot interpret or advise on the contents of the documents, so the best next step is to get on a call with your escrow officer, lender, or the drafting party directly. I’ve come close to answering at times because I genuinely want to help, but I also know the importance of staying within my role as a notary. If there’s ever uncertainty about the document itself, I immediately recommend involving the escrow officer or lender so they can properly explain it to you before signing.

Thank you for sharing this real-life scenario. Great reminder that attention to detail makes such a difference in this work. I always appreciate learning from situations like this because it shows the value of not just signing documents blindly, but paying attention, communicating, and helping create solutions when challenges come up. 👏

Great point, Melina. I do something similar as part of my process, and I’d love your thoughts on this extra step. In addition to confirming the signer’s full address and where they’ll be located for the signing, I also remind them that they should be receiving their Closing Disclosure, Seller’s Closing Disclosure, and/or Settlement Statement before the appointment. I ask whether they’ve had a chance to review the figures, and if anything looks incorrect, I recommend that they contact the title company directly for any revisions before the notary appointment. This has helped me with previous signers because there have been times when revisions were needed, and it saved time by avoiding reprints or arriving at the appointment with incorrect documents. Of course, I’m careful not to explain the figures or give advice, I just want to make sure they’ve had a chance to review everything in advance so the signing can go smoothly. Would you say this is a good extra step to include in the confirmation call, or would you keep the call focused only on confirming the full signing address?

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