In order to save time, is it okay to notarize a loan document before meeting directly with the buyer or seller? – L.R., Austin, TX
You cannot notarize a document unless the person whose signature you are notarizing appears in front of you, but you probably are asking if you can “complete” a notarial certificate on a document in advance of the loan signing appointment. Texas law does not speak to this practice, but the NNA recommends that Notaries complete notarial certificates in front of the document signer.
Hotline answers are based on the laws in the state where the question originated and may not reflect the laws of other states. If in doubt, always refer to your own state statutes. –The Editors
Kelle Clarke is a Contributing Editor with the National Notary Association.