Frequently Asked Questions
At Palm & Seal, we believe notarization should be simple, secure, and stress-free. Whether you’re preparing personal documents, managing business paperwork, or scheduling a mobile or online appointment, we’re here to help guide you every step of the way.
Below you’ll find answers to our most common questions about notary services, apostilles, document preparation, and appointments across Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Broward County.
If you don’t see your question here, reach out to us anytime at hello@palmandseal.com — we’re happy to help.
General Notary Questions
What is a notary public?
A notary public is a state-appointed professional who verifies identities, witnesses signatures, and administers oaths to prevent fraud and ensure that documents are legally valid.
What is a notarial act?
A notarial act is an official action performed by a notary, such as witnessing a signature, taking an acknowledgment, or certifying a copy. These acts confirm authenticity and protect against fraud.
Is Palm & Seal insured?
Yes. Palm & Seal carries $1,000,000 in Errors & Omissions insurance and a $25,000 surety bond to protect our clients and maintain the highest professional standards.
Can Palm & Seal notarize documents remotely?
Yes. We offer Remote Online Notarization (RON) so you can securely notarize documents from your computer or mobile device anywhere in the world.
Can a notary notarize an already signed document?
No. The signer must appear before the notary at the time of notarization, either in person or virtually through RON.
What if my ID is expired?
Florida law requires a valid, government-issued photo ID. Expired IDs cannot be accepted.
If you do not have valid identification, two credible witnesses may verify your identity. Each witness must:
Be personally known to the notary or present valid photo ID
Sign an affidavit confirming they witnessed you sign the document
Palm & Seal can help facilitate this process to ensure your notarization meets state requirements.
What if I need witnesses? Do you provide witnesses?
Yes. Palm & Seal can provide witnesses for a fee of $35 per witness. This ensures all signing requirements are met and makes your appointment stress-free.
What types of documents require notarization?
Common examples include powers of attorney, contracts, affidavits, deeds, estate planning documents, and immigration forms. Any document that requires verification of identity and signature may need notarization.
Can a document be notarized for someone who is not present?
No. For in-person notarizations, all signers must be physically present.
If the signer cannot attend in person, they can appear virtually through a Remote Online Notarization session.
Can you make a certified copy of my birth certificate?
No. Certified copies of birth certificates must come from the vital records office of the state where the birth occurred. However, we can notarize certified copies of other official records when permitted by law.
Can you provide legal advice?
No. Notaries are not attorneys and cannot give legal advice or interpret documents. Palm & Seal can explain notarial procedures but cannot provide legal guidance or recommendations.
How long is a typical notary appointment?
Most appointments take between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on the number of documents and whether the appointment is in person or online.
Apostille and Document Legalization
What is an apostille?
An apostille is a certificate issued by a state or federal government that confirms a document’s authenticity so it can be used in another country.
Can any document be apostilled?
Not all documents qualify for apostilles. Generally, public or notarized documents such as birth certificates, powers of attorney, marriage certificates, and business records are eligible. Some private documents may require additional steps before an apostille can be issued.
What is the difference between a notarization and an apostille?
A notarization confirms that a signature or document is genuine. An apostille verifies that the notarization itself is valid and that the document can be accepted internationally.
Why would I need an apostille?
An apostille is required when a document notarized in the United States must be recognized in another country. This is common for international business, education, marriage, adoption, or immigration purposes.
Document Preparation
What is document preparation?
Document preparation helps you complete and organize important paperwork correctly before it is notarized or submitted to a government agency. This service ensures your documents are formatted accurately, signed correctly, and ready for official use.
What types of documents can Palm & Seal help prepare?
We assist with powers of attorney, affidavits, business forms, real estate documents, travel consent letters, and other personal or legal forms that need to be completed and notarized properly.
Is Palm & Seal a law firm?
No. Palm & Seal is not a law firm and cannot provide legal advice. We prepare documents at your direction and ensure they are properly formatted and ready for notarization or processing.
Services and Appointments
What types of documents can you notarize?
We notarize powers of attorney, affidavits, real estate documents, estate planning paperwork, business contracts, travel consent forms, and immigration documents.
Do you offer 24/7 service?
Yes. Remote Online Notarization is available 24/7 for clients who need after-hours service. Mobile in-person appointments are available by scheduling in advance.
Where do you provide service?
Palm & Seal provides mobile notary services throughout South Florida, including Fort Lauderdale, Miami-Dade, and Broward County. We also serve clients at airports, ports, marinas, offices, and homes.
Can you meet me at the airport, port, or hotel?
Absolutely. We specialize in curbside airport appointments, dockside port services, and hotel visits for travelers and busy professionals.
How do I book an appointment?
You can schedule online, email us at hello@palmandseal.com, or call/text us to confirm your booking.
What should I bring to my appointment?
Bring a valid government-issued photo ID for each signer, the documents that need notarization, and any additional paperwork required by the receiving agency. If witnesses are needed, please bring them or request witness service when booking.
Do you offer I-9 verification services?
Yes. Palm & Seal provides I-9 employment verification for employers and remote workers, including group and on-site appointments.
Do you provide apostille services?
Yes. We facilitate apostilles for notarized or certified documents that need to be used abroad. This includes personal, business, and legal paperwork.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept cash, credit and debit cards, and Zelle. A deposit may be required to reserve certain appointments. Payment is collected at the time of service.
Rates
Mobile Notary: Starting at $50 per notarization, depending on service type and location
Additional Notarizations: $10 per document
Remote Online Notarization: $40 for the initial notarization and $25 for each additional notarization
Apostille and Document Legalization: Starting at $175+
Document Preparation: Starting at $75, depending on complexity
I-9 Employment Verification: $65 per employee
Mobile Fees: $50 to $100, depending on distance and urgency
Witnesses: $35 per witness
Printing: $0.25 per page
Information on this page is provided for educational purposes only and does not replace legal advice. Palm & Seal performs all services in compliance with Florida Statutes Chapter 117.