Q: Does a Certification of Trust need to be notarized?

A Certification of Trust may contain signatures requiring notarization depending on how the document has been prepared and the instructions provided. If you are unsure whether your document requires notarization, please confirm with your attorney, document preparer, or receiving organization before the appointment.

Question 1

Does a Certification of Trust need to be notarized?

Accepted Answer

A Certification of Trust may contain signatures from more than one trustee that require notarization. Before scheduling, it is helpful to determine which individuals will be signing and how many signatures require notarization.

If multiple trustees need their signatures notarized, they may be able to complete their notarizations during the same appointment when everyone is available at the same location.

Question 2

Can you notarize a Certification of Trust at my home?

Accepted Answer

Yes. TRC Mobile Notary provides mobile Certification of Trust notarization at homes throughout Brentwood and East Contra Costa County. Appointments can also be arranged at law offices and other mutually agreed-upon locations.

Question 3

Can you notarize a Certification of Trust at a hospital or care facility?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Mobile appointments are available at hospitals, assisted living communities, skilled nursing facilities, rehabilitation centers, hospice facilities, and other care settings, subject to facility access requirements. Each signer must be able to personally participate in the notarization and meet the requirements for the notarial act.

Question 4

Can multiple trustees have their signatures notarized at the same appointment?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If multiple trustees need their signatures notarized and are available at the same location, their notarizations may be completed during the same appointment. When scheduling, please provide the number of signers and an estimate of how many signatures will require notarization so enough time can be reserved.

Question 5

Does the notary need to see the entire trust?

Accepted Answer

Generally, the notary's role is to perform the notarial act requested for the Certification of Trust rather than review or verify the underlying trust. However, additional documents may be required by an attorney, financial institution, title company, or other receiving organization. Please confirm their requirements before the appointment.

Question 6

Can a family member, caregiver, attorney, or trustee schedule the appointment?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Another person may coordinate the appointment. However, each person whose signature is being notarized must personally appear before the notary, provide acceptable identification, be able to communicate with the notary in English, and sign willingly without coercion.

Question 7

Can you print my Certification of Trust for the appointment?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Printing services are available when the document is provided in advance. Please mention that you need printing when scheduling so the document can be prepared for your appointment.

Question 8

Can you prepare or explain a Certification of Trust?

Accepted Answer

No. TRC Mobile Notary does not prepare Certifications of Trust, provide legal advice, interpret trust provisions, or advise you how to complete the document. Questions about the contents of the document or how it should be completed should be directed to your attorney or document preparer.