Posted by PA/CA on 3/7/05 12:25am
Msg #24036

notary question

I'm a newbie and I understand that I should learn all the other duties of a notary before I venture off trying to take the task of NSA. I agree. I have took a class and recieved certification of a loan signing agent. However class was very vague. I was hoping to go over a copy of a loan or sample documentation. Just discussion, very disappointed in the class.
My question, actually two questions. One, is there a forum such as this one that discusses general duties of notary. Does anyone have any samples of any regular duties I can see. Second, Can someone give me advice of buying a separate fax machine, copier machine, versus a machine that does handles all in one.
I have been told that unless you spend over $300 for a machine that handles all or don't bother buying one.
TIA

Reply by Lee/AR on 3/7/05 8:33am
Msg #24056

There are less expensive alternatives: Yes, you need a Laser Printer IF you intend to do edocs. Check out Efax or CallWave on the net for FREE incoming faxes. For outgoing faxes, pick up the least expensive (mine is an antique thermal paper used one) you can lay hands on. The 'speed' of outgoing depends upon the receiving machine...not the sending one. As you are in CA, I would be very cautious about spending money 'til you find out this is a viable source of income. Good luck!

Reply by ColleenCA on 3/7/05 8:56am
Msg #24065

Very good advice Lee/AR as to being cautious being that the poster is from CA. We are so saturated in my area that work is just not available. I wish it wasn't so, but it is.

Reply by John_NorCal on 3/7/05 9:19am
Msg #24075

PA and Colleen - Where are you located please? n/m

Reply by ColleenCA on 3/7/05 9:26am
Msg #24077

Re: PA and Colleen - Where are you located please? n/m

Ventura County. Where are you?

Reply by John_NorCal on 3/7/05 3:29pm
Msg #24144

Re: PA and Colleen - Where are you located please? n/m

San Francisco Bay Area, San Mateo county lto be exact

Reply by Jon on 3/7/05 12:04pm
Msg #24114

PA,

If you look in the CA notary handbook, Government Code 8205 has a list of duties for the CA notary public. Keep in mind that as a notary, the document is irrelevant to what you do(possible exception being a will). Once you understand the concept of acknowledgements and jurat(oaths or affirmations) you will probably be prepared for 90 to 95 % of what you do as a notary. We are not responsible for the content of any document we notarize, only the identification of the signer and the notarization block.

Now, as a NSA, your knowledge base needs to swell considerably. Please don't confuse being a notary with being a NSA. While most NSA's are notaries, not all notaries are NSA's(although there are certain organizations trying to change this). If you are looking for NSA training, I understand that the Signing Registry has a very good program. There are several companies that also offer one on one training depending on where you are located. My suggestions are to avoid the NNA and Victoria Ring, and check on the board before buying or paying for any other course.

I suggest that in addition to reading GC 8205 as metioned above, continually re-read and learn the CA notary handbook inside out. The majority of questions regarding a notarization can be answered by simply knowing your notary laws and complying with them.

Reply by pa/ca on 3/7/05 6:55pm
Msg #24193

thanks to all of you for the info.