HOSPITAL AND MEDICAL CENTER SIGNINGS

If I am needed to notarize a document for a signer that is in a hospital, nursing home, or long-term care facility I am aware that it may already be a difficult or stressful situation. I want to make the signing experience for the signer as stress-free and easy as possible. To accomplish that, there are a few rules that I have set in place to ensure a smooth and easy signing 

• The signer must be alert and aware of what is going on before the notarization can be completed. 
• All medications that would inhibit cognitive awareness must be withheld for an hour prior to my arrival. 
• If I suspect any version of pressure or coercion of the signer, the room must be cleared of all non-medical personnel. 
• Appointments should not be scheduled during shift changes. Please be mindful of the hospital staff schedule. 
• ID verification of  the signer is important and there are options on how to do that:
  • Government Issued ID
  • Two credible witnesses-
    • Must personally know the signer.
    • Be impartial to the transaction.
    • Take an oath or affirmation vouching for the signer’s identity.
    • Present Government ID. 
    • Sign the Notary Journal.
• If the Signer is unable to sign his, or her name, there are some options available:
  • Signature by mark; this could be an x, or any type of mark the signer is able to make. The mark must have two witnesses observe and sign the document. One witness must write the signer’s name next to his mark, provide ID, and sign the Notary Journal.

The same requirements for hospital signings apply to nursing homes/long-term care facility signings. One additional item, however, is all signings must be witnessed by a patient advocate called an Ombudsman.     

Facility Fee: $60.00 Santa Barbara County Medical Locations

Facility Fee: $90.00 San Luis Obispo County Medical Locations

Per Signature: $15.00

Service/Travel Fee: Based on Zip Code