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FLORIDA FINGERPRINT & NOTARY
Notary Public, Loan Signing, Apostille, Estate Planning, Wedding/Divorce, Fingerprinting and Surplus Funds Recovery
Welcome to Florida Fingerprint & Notary, LLC
Since 1988, Florida Fingerprint & Notary, LLC has proudly served the residents of Palm Beach County and beyond. Over the decades, we have built a reputation for excellence, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to our community. What started as a notary public service has grown into a multifaceted business, offering a wide range of services designed to meet the evolving needs of the people we serve.
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Apostille
An apostille is a certification that verifies the authenticity of a document for use in another country under the terms of the Hague Apostille Convention of 1961. It is issued by a designated authority in the country where the document originated and confirms that the document is genuine and recognized by other member countries of the Convention.
DNA & Paternity Testing
Are scientific processes used to determine the biological relationship between a child and an alleged father. These tests analyze an individual’s DNA, which carries genetic information inherited from both parents. DNA testing involves analyzing specific markers in the DNA to establish relationships, identify individuals, or provide evidence in legal or medical contexts.
weddings & divorce
Notaries in Florida are authorized to officiate weddings. Under Florida law, notaries public can solemnize marriages as long as the couple obtains a valid marriage license from a Florida Clerk of Court.
RON
A Remote Online Notary (RON) is a notarial service conducted entirely online using audio-visual technology, allowing the notary public and signer to complete the notarization process without being in the same physical location. It is a legally recognized process in many states in the U.S., governed by specific state laws.
Loan Signing Service
A Notary Loan Signing Agent (LSA) is a specially trained notary public who facilitates and notarizes loan documents for real estate transactions. They play a critical role in ensuring that mortgage loan closings are executed properly, accurately, and in compliance with state and federal laws. Loan Signing Agents are commonly hired by title companies, escrow offices, mortgage lenders, or signing services.
quit claim deed
A Quit Claim Deed is a legal document used to transfer a person's interest in a property to another person without guaranteeing that the property title is free of liens or encumbrances. A Lady Bird Deed is a type of deed that allows the grantor to retain ownership and control of the property during their lifetime while naming one or more beneficiaries who will automatically inherit the property upon the grantor’s death.
Surplus funds recovery
Surplus funds recovery refers to the process of reclaiming excess money that remains after a property has been sold at a foreclosure or tax sale. When a property is sold for more than the amount owed to the lender, lienholders, or taxing authority, the leftover funds, known as surplus funds, belong to the original property owner or other entitled parties.
Fingerprinting
In Florida a Notary Public can take rolled ink fingerprints, but it depends on their training, tools, and whether it is a service they choose to offer. Florida law does not prohibit notaries from taking fingerprints, but it does not specifically designate this as an official notarial act either.
Mobile Notary Services Area
West Palm Beach
Palm Beach Gardens
Boynton Beach
Lake Park
Riviera Beach
Greenacres
Lake Worth
Palm Springs
Lantana
Royal Palm Beach
Wellington
Jupiter
Boca Raton
Dade County
Broward County
Martin County
St. Lucie County
Okeechobee County
Glades County
Payment Methods, No checks
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frequently asked question
Here are our most asked questions. If you have a concern and the question is not listed, please contact me via phone, text or email and I will be be sure to get back to you.
A Notary Public is an official appointed by a state government to serve as an impartial witness in the signing of important documents. The primary role of a notary is to prevent fraud by verifying the identity of the individuals involved in a transaction, ensuring they are signing willingly and aware of the document's content.
In Florida, I recommend https://www.floridanotaryservice.com/ and in all other states you can become a notary by visiting www.nationalnotary.org
Documents often need to be notarized to ensure their authenticity, deter fraud, and confirm that they were signed willingly by the parties involved. Notarization serves as a safeguard for important legal and financial transactions by adding an additional layer of verification and trustworthiness. Below are the key reasons why documents are notarized.
A Jurat is a notarial act in which a signer swears or affirms that the contents of a document are true. The purpose of a jurat is to ensure that the document is truthful and that the signer is taking an oath or making an affirmation under penalty of perjury. Unlike an acknowledgment, the signer must always sign the document in the notary’s presence during a jurat.
Key Elements of a Jurat
Personal Appearance: The signer must personally appear before the notary public.
Oath or Affirmation: The notary administers an oath (a solemn promise to God or a higher power) or an affirmation (a solemn promise without religious connotation) to the signer.
Signature in Notary’s Presence: The signer must sign the document in front of the notary at the time of the notarization.
Verification of Identity: The notary verifies the signer’s identity using valid identification or credible witnesses.
Yes, a Notary Public can refuse to notarize a document under certain circumstances. In fact, notaries are obligated to decline notarization if specific legal or ethical requirements are not met. Here are the common reasons a notary might refuse to sign a document:
1. Lack of Proper Identification
The notary must verify the signer’s identity using acceptable identification (e.g., a government-issued ID). If the signer:
Cannot provide valid ID.
Provides ID that is expired beyond the allowable time frame (e.g., over five years in Florida).
The ID appears altered or fake.
The notary must refuse to notarize.
2. Document Issues
Incomplete Document: The document is missing pages or has blank sections that could be completed later.
Altered Document: The document appears to have been tampered with or modified improperly.
Unsupported Notarial Act: The document does not require or allow the type of notarization being requested (e.g., acknowledgment or jurat).
3. Signer Issues
Lack of Willingness: The signer appears coerced or unwilling to sign the document.
Lack of Competence: The signer does not appear to understand the nature of the document or the notarization due to age, illness, intoxication, or language barriers.
Signer's Absence: If the signer does not personally appear before the notary, notarization cannot proceed.
4. Legal or Ethical Conflicts
Conflict of Interest: The notary has a personal or financial interest in the transaction or document.
Unauthorized Acts: The requested act violates the law, such as notarizing for a family member in states where it is prohibited, or performing a notarization that is outside the notary’s commission (e.g., certifying a vital record or performing legal advice).
Improper Oath or Affirmation: For jurats, if the signer refuses to take an oath or affirmation, the notary cannot complete the act.
5. Refusal to Pay Fees
If the signer refuses to pay the notary's legal fees (if applicable and pre-discussed), the notary may decline to proceed.
6. Unethical or Illegal Requests
The signer requests the notary to backdate the document or engage in fraudulent activity.
The document contains false information or is intended for unlawful purposes.
Yes, a notary can notarize foreign language documents, but there are important considerations and limitations to ensure compliance with notarial laws and the integrity of the process. Below are key points regarding notarizing foreign language documents:
When a Notary Can Notarize Foreign Language Documents
Understanding of the Notarial Certificate:
The notary must fully understand the notarial certificate (the section where they affix their seal and signature).
The certificate must be in a language the notary can read and write, as they are responsible for ensuring it is accurate and complies with state laws.
No Need to Understand the Document’s Content:
A notary’s role is to verify the identity of the signer and witness their acknowledgment or oath, not to review or verify the content of the document.
The notary does not need to understand the language of the main document, as long as they understand the notarial certificate.
Signer’s Awareness:
The signer must be able to communicate with the notary to confirm their identity, willingness to sign, and understanding of the document’s purpose.
If there is a language barrier, an interpreter may be used, but the notary should proceed with caution to avoid miscommunication.
Proper Identification:
The notary must verify the signer’s identity according to state laws, regardless of the language used in the document.
A Notary Loan Signing Agent (LSA) is a specially trained notary public who facilitates and notarizes loan documents for real estate transactions. They play a critical role in ensuring that mortgage loan closings are executed properly, accurately, and in compliance with state and federal laws. Loan Signing Agents are commonly hired by title companies, escrow offices, mortgage lenders, or signing services.
Role and Responsibilities of a Loan Signing Agent
Present Loan Documents:
The LSA explains the purpose and general content of each document in the loan package (e.g., mortgage, note, closing disclosure) but does not provide legal advice or opinions.
Verify Signer Identity:
The LSA ensures the signer(s) are properly identified by verifying government-issued identification.
Witness Signatures:
The LSA oversees the signing of loan documents, ensuring they are signed correctly and completely.
Notarize Documents:
The LSA performs notarizations (e.g., acknowledgments, jurats) as required for specific documents within the loan package.
Ensure Compliance:
The LSA ensures all documents are executed in accordance with state notary laws and lender requirements.
Return Documents:
After the signing, the LSA ensures the loan documents are returned to the hiring company (e.g., title or escrow office) promptly and securely, often using overnight delivery.
To obtain a Florida death certificate, follow these steps:
1. Eligibility
You must be an eligible individual to request a death certificate. Eligible parties include:
The spouse or parent of the deceased.
Children, siblings, or grandparents of the deceased.
A legal representative or authorized person with documentation.
2. Gather Required Information
You will need specific details about the deceased, such as:
Full name (at the time of death)
Date of death
County of death (if known)
Social Security number (optional, but helpful)
Name of spouse or parents (if known)
3. Choose Your Method of Request
You can request a Florida death certificate through various methods:
Online:
Visit the Florida Department of Health website https://www.floridahealth.gov/certificates/certificates/death/index.html or third-party services like VitalChek to request a death certificate online.
You’ll need to fill out the application form and provide necessary identification and payment.
By Mail:
Complete the Death Certificate Application form (available from the Florida Department of Health website).
Include a copy of your valid photo ID (e.g., driver’s license or passport).
Include payment (check or money order) for the certificate fee.
Mail the completed form and documents to the Florida Department of Health’s Bureau of Vital Statistics or the county health department where the death occurred.
In Person:
Visit the local county health department where the death occurred.
Present valid identification and payment for the certificate fee.
Some counties may require appointments or have specific office hours, so check in advance.
4. Pay the Fee
The standard fee for a Florida death certificate is usually around $25 for the first copy, with additional copies costing about $5 each. Fees can vary slightly depending on the method of request or processing services.
5. Receive the Certificate
Online: If you order online, the processing time is generally 3–5 business days, plus delivery time.
By Mail: Processing time for mail requests is typically around 3–5 weeks, with expedited options available.
In Person: You may be able to receive the certificate the same day, depending on the office and the volume of requests.
Important Notes:
Only authorized individuals can request a death certificate.
Be cautious of third-party services charging additional fees—use official sources like VitalChek or Florida Department of Health to avoid overpaying.
Ensure the information you provide is accurate to avoid delays in processing.
For more information, visit the Florida Department of Health's Bureau of Vital Statistics website.
Usually, just a brief 20-minute interview is needed to confirm family connections and estate details, along with a copy of your driver’s license and a few signatures. For your convenience, we can arrange a mobile notary to visit you for any necessary document signatures. Florida Fingerprint & Notary handles the entire process from start to finish, minimizing any time or effort required from you.
A Florida notary public must verify a signer’s identity before performing a notarial act. The state specifies acceptable forms of identification in Chapter 117.05(5)(b) of the Florida Statutes. Below is a summary of what is generally accepted:
1. Primary Acceptable Forms of Identification
The identification must be issued by a governmental agency, current or expired within the past five years, and include a photo, signature, and physical description. Examples include:
U.S. Passport or a passport issued by a foreign government.
Driver's License or State ID Card issued by any U.S. state or territory.
Military ID Card (must contain all required elements).
Permanent Resident Card or other government-issued identification that meets the requirements.
2. Other Acceptable Forms of Identification
Florida also permits other forms of government-issued IDs if they meet the criteria, such as:
Inmate ID Card issued by the Florida Department of Corrections (for inmates).
Government Employee ID Cards with all required features.
No, I a not an attorney licensed to practice law in The State of Florida, and I may not give legal advice or accept fees for legal advice.
An Acknowledgment is a notarial act where a signer declares, in the presence of a notary public, that they voluntarily signed a document. The purpose of an acknowledgment is to confirm the authenticity of the signature and the signer’s intent, but not the truthfulness of the content in the document itself.
Key Elements of an Acknowledgment
Personal Appearance: The signer must physically appear before the notary public at the time of notarization.
Voluntary Declaration: The signer must declare that they signed the document willingly and not under duress or coercion.
Identity Verification: The notary verifies the signer’s identity using acceptable identification (e.g., government-issued ID) or credible witnesses.
Signature Verification: The document may already be signed before appearing before the notary, but the signer must confirm that the signature is theirs.
Becoming a Notary Loan Signing Agent (NSA) is a great way to expand your notarial duties and specialize in notarizing mortgage and real estate documents. The role of a Notary Loan Signing Agent is different from a traditional notary, as it involves more specialized knowledge of loan documents, real estate transactions, and the signing process. Here are the key steps and requirements to become a Notary Loan Signing Agent:
1. Be a Commissioned Notary Public
Prerequisite: Before you can become a Notary Loan Signing Agent, you must first be a commissioned Notary Public in your state. This means you must meet the requirements set by your state to become a notary, which generally include being at least 18 years old, a legal resident of the state, and passing a background check (depending on your state).
Required Equipment: You will also need the basic tools of a notary, such as a notary stamp or seal and a notary journal (in states where required).
2. Complete Loan Signing Agent Training (Recommended)
Training: While not all states require formal training to become a Notary Loan Signing Agent, it is highly recommended to take a specialized Loan Signing Agent course. These courses teach you the specifics of mortgage documents, the closing process, and how to handle loan signings. They cover important documents like:
Promissory notes
Deeds of trust
Closing disclosures
Escrow instructions
Acknowledgments
The training helps you understand the various documents involved in real estate transactions and ensures you're prepared for the role.
For detailed in depth training I highly recommend taking a course through Loan Signing System using my Affiliate link at: http://loansigningsystem.com/?afmc=32f
3. Pass a Background Check
Many states require that Notary Loan Signing Agents undergo a national background check. The background check is particularly important because you will be handling sensitive personal information related to real estate transactions, and lenders want to ensure that only trustworthy individuals are involved in the process.
Background checks are often handled through professional organizations like the National Notary Association (NNA), which is one of the most widely recognized certifying bodies for NSAs.
4. Obtain Loan Signing Certification (Optional but Recommended)
Certification: Although not required in every state, obtaining certification through a reputable organization, such as the National Notary Association (NNA) or Signing Agents (NSA), can enhance your credibility and make you more marketable. Certification typically involves:
Successfully completing an exam that tests your knowledge of loan documents and the signing process.
Passing a background check through the NNA or another certification body.
A certificate of completion or certification indicating you're qualified to handle loan signings.
Certification gives you an edge over non-certified individuals and can make you more attractive to signing services, title companies, and mortgage lenders.
The certification that is highly recognized is the one from National Notary Association (www.nationalnotary.org)
R.O.N. (Remote Online Notary) refers to a notary process that allows a notary public to perform notarizations online, using audio-video technology, rather than in person. This method was introduced to adapt to digital and remote needs, especially in situations where parties are in different locations or can't meet in person.
Here’s how it typically works:
Video Conference: The signer and the notary connect through a secure video conferencing platform.
Verification: The signer’s identity is verified through various methods, such as using knowledge-based authentication (KBA), credential analysis, or other forms of identity proof.
Notarization: The notary completes the notarization remotely, and the signer electronically signs the document.
Recording: The entire session is recorded, and the notary logs it as required by law.
Digital Seal: The notary applies a digital notary seal to the document and sends it back to the signer.
Remote Online Notarization offers convenience, especially for people in different locations, and is legally accepted in several states in the U.S., though each state may have its own rules and regulations governing RON.
This method has gained popularity due to the ease and safety it provides, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing legal and financial transactions to continue without face-to-face interactions.
Mortgage Surplus Funds refer to excess funds that remain after a property has been foreclosed, sold, and the outstanding mortgage balance has been fully paid off. These funds are typically the result of a foreclosure sale where the property was sold for more than what was owed on the mortgage.
Here’s how surplus funds occur:
Foreclosure Sale: When a borrower defaults on their mortgage, the lender may foreclose on the property and sell it at an auction to recover the owed amount.
Sale Proceeds: The property is sold, and the money received from the sale is first used to pay off the remaining mortgage balance, any back taxes, and foreclosure-related fees.
Excess Funds: If the sale proceeds exceed the mortgage balance and fees, the remaining surplus funds are considered "mortgage surplus funds." These are typically returned to the former homeowner or any other interested parties.
The surplus funds could be claimed by:
The former homeowner: The borrower who lost the home to foreclosure is typically entitled to the surplus funds, provided there are no other claims against the funds.
Other lienholders: If there are additional lienholders (e.g., second mortgages or tax liens), they might have a claim to a portion of the surplus.
In many cases, the former homeowner may not even be aware that they are entitled to surplus funds, and they may need to file a claim or go through a process to recover the excess amount. The rules regarding these funds can vary by state, and the claim process may involve deadlines or require legal assistance to navigate properly.
To obtain a Florida birth certificate, follow these steps:
1. Eligibility
You must be the individual named on the certificate, their parent/legal guardian, or an authorized representative to request the birth certificate.
2. Gather Required Information
Ensure you have the necessary details about the person whose birth certificate you are requesting, such as:
Full name at birth
Date of birth
Place of birth (city or county)
Parent(s) full name(s) (especially the mother’s maiden name)
3. Choose Your Method of Request
You can request a Florida birth certificate through several methods:
Online:
Visit the Florida Department of Health’s official website https://www.floridahealth.gov/certificates/certificates/birth/index.html or third-party services like VitalChek to submit your request online.
You will need to provide identification and payment for the certificate.
By Mail:
Complete a birth certificate application form available on the Florida Department of Health website.
Include a copy of your valid photo ID (e.g., driver’s license or passport).
Enclose a check or money order for the fee, payable to the Florida Department of Health.
Mail the form and documents to the Florida Department of Health or the county health department where the birth occurred.
In Person:
Visit the local county health department where the birth was registered.
Present valid identification and pay the required fee for the certificate.
Some counties may require an appointment, so check ahead.
4. Pay the Fee
The fee for obtaining a Florida birth certificate is typically around $25 for the first copy, with additional copies costing around $5 each. The exact fee may vary depending on the method of request and processing fees.
5. Receive the Certificate
Online: If you order online, the processing time is usually 3–5 business days, with an additional time for delivery.
By Mail: Processing time for mail requests typically takes 3–5 weeks, though expedited services may be available.
In Person: If you request in person, you may receive the certificate on the same day, depending on the office.
Important Notes:
Only the individual or authorized parties can request a birth certificate.
Ensure you are using the official websites or authorized third-party providers like VitalChek to avoid scams.
An apostille is a certification that verifies the authenticity of a document for use in another country under the terms of the Hague Apostille Convention of 1961. It is issued by a designated authority in the country where the document originated and confirms that the document is genuine and recognized by other member countries of the Convention.
Key Features of an Apostille
Purpose:
To simplify the process of legalizing documents for international use.
Replaces the need for additional certification by embassies or consulates.
Applicability:
Valid only between countries that are members of the Hague Apostille Convention.
Appearance:
The apostille is typically a standardized certificate that includes:
The issuing country’s name.
The name of the signer and their capacity.
The seal or stamp of the issuing authority.
A unique reference number.
Date of issuance.
Common Documents Requiring Apostilles:
Birth certificates.
Marriage certificates.
Academic transcripts and diplomas.
Business documents, such as powers of attorney and corporate certifications.
How to Obtain an Apostille
Determine the Issuing Authority:
Each country has designated specific offices to issue apostilles. For example, in the U.S., it is typically the Secretary of State’s office for each state.
Prepare the Document:
Ensure the document is an original or a certified copy, as required.
Some documents may need to be notarized before an apostille can be issued.
Submit an Application:
Complete the application form and pay the required fee.
Provide the document that needs the apostille.
Processing Time:
The time to receive an apostille can vary but typically ranges from a few days to a few weeks.
When Is an Apostille Needed?
International Marriages: To prove marital status abroad.
Employment Abroad: To validate educational or professional credentials.
Business Transactions: For contracts or powers of attorney in international business.
Immigration: To verify identity and civil status for visas or residency applications.
If the document's destination country is not a member of the Hague Convention, a different process called authentication and legalization may be required, involving the country’s consulate or embassy.
This is a valid concern, and we completely understand. Florida Fingerprint & Notary has been in business since 1988, and has numerous 5-star reviews on Google from satisfied clients. Most importantly, all of our estate cases are processed through the Florida Probate Courts, ensuring legitimacy and transparency every step of the way.