Posted by cmd_NH on 9/24/05 12:24pm
Msg #67126

Loose Certificates

When using a loose certificates, how can I be sure that it is not detached and clipped to another document when the signer leaves.

Reply by SarahBeth_CA on 9/24/05 12:36pm
Msg #67128

You can't be sure of what anyone will do once you have completed your job using proper proceedure. That is why we have journals. If a certificate is ever questioned you have your journal showing what notorial act you did on which date for which document. Some certicates have optional information outside of the notary block, you can write what document it is attached to.

Reply by Rebecca_TN on 9/24/05 12:41pm
Msg #67129

There are no guarantees, but at the bottom of my loose certificates, I have the following wording: "This certificate is attached to a document titled_____________, consisting of ___pages (not including this page), dated ___________.

Reply by MelissaM_FL on 9/24/05 1:28pm
Msg #67139

I always note on a loose certificate exactly to which document that certificate is being attached. I make certain that the name of the attached document is as close as possible to either the top or bottom of the actual writing as possible. One particular lender now has a Borrower's Compliance Certificate which has the entire wording of the notarization on the second page of the document. On that certificate, I always write in "Attached to Borrower's Compliance Certificate dated ___________ _____, 2005".

Reply by cmd_NH on 9/24/05 1:31pm
Msg #67141

Thanks, you've been a great help!

Reply by TitleGalCA on 9/24/05 7:34pm
Msg #67183

Here's my take on loose certs...I seriously doubt if there's any ulterior/fraudulant motive. Think about it...there's one transaction, a loan or a purchase, with defined signers. Where is the threat?

Too many notaries act as if a loose certificate puts them in jeopardy. Just how many documents can a TC or escrow attach the loose certificate to??

Most TC's are very busy. They simply don't have time to plot a coup, all they want to do is close the sale.

I don't advocate filling out EXTRA loose certs in a package, simply because it's not necessary. But to wig out in fear is equally not necessary in providing a loose certificate. Many times, loose certs are simply required as the lender didn't provide the correct wording for your state, and that's the notary's call - it's their certificate. And, as one poster said, you are not responsible for what happens to your documents once they get to the TC. Our role is limited in the total transaction - we are not the Alpha and Omega in real estate.

The "Chicken Little" syndrome is rampant, and so unnecessary. Use loose certificates wisely, according to your state's requirements and need, but don't lose sleep over it. You're just the notary, relax.

Reply by Barry Silver on 9/24/05 7:47pm
Msg #67187

A loose certificate should reference the document to which it is supposed to be attached.