Posted by Help in NH on 2/4/05 8:41pm
Msg #19461

applications

Why is it that some of these signing companies send these page after page applications. They want my drivers license, SS card, notary stamp, references, copy of my commission, a signed contract, etc. I'm sure you get it. This is even if I do not agree to do a signing for them......but to have me on file. Should I do all this?? It seems to me all they really need is a W9. Not my life story.
Any input is appreciated.
P.S. If you have anything negative to post about my question..........don't bother. It's rude and uncalled for. I've read most of the posts and have found a few in reference to my question but would appreciate an answer anyway.

Thanks in advance!!

Reply by fiKS on 2/4/05 9:11pm
Msg #19465

I'm not sure I understand. If you don't want to take signing jobs from a particular SS, why would you want your name listed in their database? You make the decision to sign up with them and they cannot insist that you do.

In regards to all the IDs and certificates, they need to be sure that you are a legit notary and that you are who you say you are. If they hire a bogus notary, all the documents signed and stamped by him/her will not be legally effective. If that happens, they have to answer to the title company with financial implications. If you sit down and think about it, it will make sense.

Reply by Tom on 2/4/05 9:35pm
Msg #19469

If you were applying for a job would you not expect the company to want to know something about you? About the only thing some of the companies ask for that I will not provide is an imprint of my Notary stamp. I also have blacked out the .jpg copy of my driver's license that I keep on my computer. I often go another step and send a copy of my resume just as if I was applying for a "real job" (ok everyone don't get your bowels in an uproar over that one--it's humor--laugh).

Reply by Lee/AR on 2/4/05 9:45pm
Msg #19473

Tom

OK... so there's at least 2 of us, Tom. I send a sorta Signing Agent-relevant resume, too.

Reply by Lee/AR on 2/4/05 9:42pm
Msg #19471

"references, copy of my commission, a signed contract" & a W9 (+ Bond/E&O) is a reasonable request. Everything else--they don't need. You can 'comply' by blacking out # on DL; the W9 takes care of SS Card, reason they want to see the stamp is to make sure it's not some crazy thing--depending on your state's laws--you might be alowed to void the copy of this. This is pretty much standard drill--but--be careful/mindful of identity theft; hence NO complete DL, SS Card. Some even ask for a copy of your Auto Insurance. As a Private Contractor that's your responsibility and none of their business. Refusing to supply the SS card, DL, Auto Ins., copy of stamp has never come back to haunt me.

Reply by CarolynCO on 2/4/05 10:00pm
Msg #19474

Although my New Year's Resolution was to ignore anonymous posts, I've decided to make an exception for you. Although I know your name isn't Help, at least you have indicated you live in New Hampshire, so you've earnd 2 cents of my 5 cents speech.

**They want my drivers license, SS card, notary stamp, references, copy of my commission, a signed contract, etc. I'm sure you get it. This is even if I do not agree to do a signing for them......but to have me on file. Should I do all this?? It seems to me all they really need is a W9. **

If requested, I will furnish a copy of my driver's license with the number blacked out. I will not furnish automobile insurance info. I would never furnish anyone a copy of my Social Security card. As for a copy of your notary stamp, in many states, it is illegal to send a copy of your stamp -- if you decide to do so, put a big "X" through it. In lieu of sending a copy of your seal, opt for sending them a copy of your commission. Signing a contract is not all that bad. Just be sure to read it thoroughly. References are not unreasonable, either. Many SSs will not pay you without having a W-9 on file. If you are uncomfortable with disclosing your Social Security number, get an EIN number.

**This is even if I do not agree to do a signing for them......but to have me on file.**

You never know when a SS will call you, and you have no idea which SS will call you. I think it is better to have the info on file ahead of time, which might be the deciding factor of calling you or calling someone they know nothing about. I usually don't actually give them my W-9 info until affer my first signing with them.