Terms of Service

Last updated: April 2026

1. General Terms

By engaging Monterey Bay Notary Services ("MBNS," "we," "us," or "our") for notary, loan signing, or apostille services, you ("client," "you," or "your") agree to the following terms and conditions. Please read these terms carefully before scheduling any services.

These Terms of Service constitute a legally binding agreement between you and MBNS. If you do not agree to these terms, please do not use our services.

Professional Standards

MBNS operates as a mobile notary public and apostille service provider in the Monterey Bay area. All notaries are commissioned by the State of California and bound by California notary public laws and regulations.

Service Area

Services are provided in Pacific Grove, Monterey, Carmel, and surrounding areas of Monterey Bay. Travel fees may apply for locations outside our standard service area.

2. Notary Services Terms

2.1 Scope of Notary Services

MBNS provides mobile notary services including, but not limited to:

  • Document notarization (acknowledgments, jurats, oaths, affirmations)
  • Witness attestations
  • Signature witnessing
  • Copy certification

2.2 Identification Requirements

All signers must present valid government-issued photo identification at the time of notarization. Acceptable forms of ID include:

  • California Driver's License or ID card
  • U.S. Passport or Passport Card
  • Military ID
  • Tribal ID

If a signer cannot provide acceptable identification, they may use a credible identifying witness who is personally known to the notary.

2.3 Signer Responsibilities

You are responsible for:

  • Reading and understanding all documents before signing
  • Ensuring all information is complete and accurate
  • Providing valid identification
  • Being of sound mind and not under duress when signing
  • Bringing all required parties and witnesses

2.4 Notary Limitations

California notaries are prohibited from:

  • Giving legal advice
  • Preparing legal documents
  • Advising on document consequences
  • Notarizing documents with blank spaces
  • Notarizing if signer appears coerced or incapacitated

3. Loan Signing Services Terms

3.1 Service Description

MBNS provides loan signing services for real estate transactions, including:

  • Purchase agreements and deeds
  • Refinancing documents
  • Home equity lines of credit (HELOCs)
  • Reverse mortgages
  • All loan-related notarizations

3.2 Appointment Scheduling

Loan signings require advance scheduling. When booking:

  • Provide complete loan package details
  • Confirm all signers will be present
  • Ensure adequate time is allocated for signing
  • Provide accurate contact information

3.3 Cancellations and Rescheduling

We require at least 2 hours notice for cancellations or rescheduling. A cancellation fee may apply for:

  • Cancellations with less than 2 hours notice
  • No-show appointments
  • Signers who arrive under the influence or unable to sign
  • Incomplete loan packages

3.4 Loan Signing Fees

Loan signing fees cover:

  • Travel to signing location
  • Notary services during signing
  • Witness services if required
  • Document handling and organization

Additional fees may apply for:

  • After-hours or weekend appointments
  • Rush requests
  • Extended signing sessions
  • Travel beyond standard service area

3.5 Important Disclosures

The loan signing agent is a notary public, NOT an attorney. We cannot:

  • Explain legal terms or document implications
  • Provide legal advice
  • Recommend or discourage any loan product
  • Interpret lender instructions

Note: If you have questions about your loan documents, please consult with your lender or an attorney before signing.

4. Apostille Services Terms

4.1 What is an Apostille?

An apostille is a form of authentication issued to documents for use in countries that are parties to the Hague Apostille Convention. It certifies the authenticity of the signature, seal, or stamp on the document.

4.2 Apostille Requirements

For MBNS to process an apostille, you must provide:

  • Original documents (no copies unless certified)
  • Documents notarized by a California notary (if applicable)
  • Completed apostille request form
  • Valid government-issued ID
  • Payment for service and state fees

4.3 Document Processing

MBNS assists with:

  • Notarization of documents requiring notarization
  • Authentication of notarized documents
  • Submission to the California Secretary of State
  • Obtaining apostille certification

4.4 Processing Time

Processing times vary based on:

  • Document type and completeness
  • Secretary of State processing times
  • Shipping method selected
  • Rush processing requests

Standard processing is typically 3-5 business days. Rush processing may be available for an additional fee.

4.5 Apostille Limitations

MBNS cannot:

  • Guarantee acceptance by foreign authorities
  • Translate documents
  • Advise on specific country requirements
  • Expedite Secretary of State processing

Important: Requirements vary by country. Please verify specific destination country requirements before requesting apostille services.

5. Payment Terms

5.1 Payment Methods

We accept the following payment methods:

  • Visa
  • Mastercard
  • American Express
  • Discover
  • Apple Pay
  • Google Pay
  • Cash App
  • Venmo

5.2 Payment Timing

Payment is due at time of service unless other arrangements have been made in advance. For apostille services, a deposit may be required before processing begins.

5.3 Returned Checks

A fee will be assessed for any returned checks or failed payments.

5.4 Refunds

Refunds are not provided for:

  • Completed notary services
  • Documents already submitted to government agencies
  • Services cancelled after work has begun

State fees are non-refundable once submitted.

6. Limitation of Liability

6.1 Disclaimer

I am not an attorney and cannot give legal advice about immigration or any other legal matters.

MBNS acts solely as a notary public and service provider. We do not:

  • Provide legal advice
  • Prepare legal documents
  • Guarantee transaction outcomes
  • Accept liability for document errors or omissions

6.2 Liability Cap

MBNS's liability for any claim arising from our services is limited to the total fees paid for those specific services. We are not liable for indirect, incidental, or consequential damages.

6.3 Indemnification

You agree to indemnify and hold harmless MBNS from any claims, damages, or expenses arising from your use of our services or your failure to comply with these terms.

7. Contact Information

If you have questions about these Terms of Service, please contact us:

Monterey Bay Notary Services

Phone: (831) 264-7707

Email: [email protected]

Service Area: Pacific Grove, Monterey, Carmel & Surrounding Areas