Posted by Leon_CO on 9/26/08 5:33am
Msg #265441

Notary Temps

The last place a lot of notaries would think to sign up is at a temporary staffing agency. And, given the nature of our work, I really wouldn't recommend it. After all, we are independent contractors.

But the need for temporary notaries does exist. I discovered that yesterday.

I got a call yesterday from someone in need of a notary. It turned out that it was a big real estate investment deal for a large real estate investment company. They're involved in everything (commercial, etc.). They have their own notary, but she wasn't there (exact reason, I don't know).

Normally I'm in and out rather quickly when I do a notarization. But I hadn't been paid yet. So I sat there patiently and listened and learned while they discussed the deal. After all the parties had left, the owner paid me (travel fee + notarizations) and asked for my card. He said he wanted to use me for future closings because he wasn't sure when his notary would be back. I told him that I do remote closings, so it's possible for the parties to close the deal wherever it's most convenient for everyone. He liked that idea. (Another person who hasn't heard of notary signing agents.)

It's only temporary. But it made me aware that there are companies that regularly use notaries, but have a need for one occasionally on a temporary basis.

Good luck.

P.S. I don't make coffee.

Reply by BrendaTx on 9/26/08 5:53am
Msg #265442

*I don't make coffee.*

I do! I'll serve it if they want me to. We have a Cuisinart coffee pot at work complete with grinder. Talk about tasty! A little Starbucks coffee made from fresh beans is a true pick me up in the afternoons. I take orders and make it. Everyone's mood lifts and smiles appear.

Southern hospitality is always appreciated.

Hint: Along these same linesw temp agencies get sued. It's good for them to know mobile notaries.

Reply by PAW on 9/26/08 6:44am
Msg #265443

Temp agencies provide substantial income

I'm signed up with a few temp agencies for signing agent work. One 'gig' used to provide about ½ my monthly income (during the housing boom), but still provides a substantial amount of income comparatively. You'd be surprised how often title companies need fill-in closers. Especially in today's market, many companies have laid off much of their staff so it sometimes happens that there is an overload on any particular day, or a staff member goes out sick or on vacation. Someone needs to fill in. Temp agencies can fill that need with qualified signing agents, especially if they have title office or mortgage experience and backgrounds.

So, I disagree with Leon's statement, "The last place a lot of notaries would think to sign up is at a temporary staffing agency. And, given the nature of our work, I really wouldn't recommend it. After all, we are independent contractors." I think a prudent signing agent, if they are qualified should certainly consider "professional staffing" agencies. I highly recommend it. You can still maintain your independent contractor status working for these agencies, no matter if you are 1099 or W-2 to the agency.

Reply by Leon_CO on 9/26/08 7:07am
Msg #265447

Re: Temp agencies provide substantial income

I'm speaking from my own experience with staffing agencies, which is limited. And I'm basing my comment based on the type of notary assignment I did yesterday.

When I worked for a temporary staffing agency, they were paid by the hiring company. I was paid a percentage of that. A small percentage. And it was a hassle getting paid. Forms to fill out for each assignment, etc. Comparing that type of arrangement to what I did yesterday, I would not want to work that way.

I want to be able to negotiate my fees for travel and notarizations, and I want it paid directly to me.

Also, I want to have the freedom of having that company call me directly, rather than going through a staffing agency.

P.S. That's just my personal opinion. I prefer to be totally independent.

Reply by PAW on 9/26/08 8:00am
Msg #265448

Re: Temp agencies provide substantial income

Oh, you based your broad stroke statements on the experience from one assignment. My experience with staffing and temp agencies over the past 25 years is that I tell them what I want to be paid. I don't care what they charge their client, I only care what they pay me. If agreeable, we do business. And I always prefer to be paid as a temporary employee (W-2) for tax, unemployment and social security purposes. Every agency knows what my "fee" would be, usually for a full day assignment, but includes piecework (remote closing) assignments. Just like working for a signing service, you have the right to refuse the assignment.

The only paperwork needed, once you're in their system, is completing the time sheet and having it signed by the client. Paycheck arrives the following week. Just like clockwork.

Reply by Leon_CO on 9/26/08 8:08am
Msg #265449

Re: Temp agencies provide substantial income

Paul, I'm not disagreeing with you or anyone. I'm simply writing about an experience I had yesterday. It's an opportunity that could turn into more jobs because this person has a need for a notary.

If people want to work for staffing agencies, go for it.

Good luck.

Reply by EastTxNotary on 9/26/08 7:01am
Msg #265446

I had a similar gig a while back. A resort property company needed a notary as their "in house notary" had moved on to another job. They paid me $30 an hour to sit and wait to see if they had a sale that would need notary work. Wasn't bad, they provided lunch and a computer and desk to sit and play while I waited. I actually had to notarize for about 4 sales on 2 different days, each requiring only a couple notarizations. They cut me a check the same day. It was always on Saturday and since those are typically slow around here, it was a decent "fill in" and I could do other research while I was there using their equipment.

But, alas, one of the girls in their office got her commission and they haven't called me back. Was good while it lasted..only 2 miles from my house.

This company was NRPI and I understand they have properties in AR and NM among others.

Reply by notaryinmo on 9/26/08 10:45am
Msg #265470

Good information, Leon! I just finished signing up with a local agency for temp positions and didn't even think about putting myself down as a Notary Public. I called the agency and they were delighted that I'm a licensed, bonded Notary. Thanks so much - hope it gives me a edge over those who are equally qualified.