Why Preparation Matters
Walking into a notary appointment unprepared is one of the most common reasons notarizations get delayed or rescheduled. Whether you are signing a real estate closing, a power of attorney, or a simple affidavit, having the right items ready saves you time, money, and frustration.
As a mobile notary serving Basehor, Leavenworth, and the greater Kansas City area, I see this happen more often than you might expect. A signer arrives without valid identification, or they have already signed the document before I get there. Both situations mean we cannot complete the notarization that day.
This guide covers exactly what you need to bring so your appointment goes smoothly the first time.
1. A Valid, Unexpired Government-Issued Photo ID
This is the most important item on the list. Under Kansas law, every signer must present a valid form of identification that includes both a photograph and a signature. The ID must not be expired.
Acceptable Forms of ID in Kansas
| ID Type | Accepted? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Kansas driver's license | Yes | Most common form of ID |
| State-issued ID card (any U.S. state) | Yes | Must include photo and signature |
| U.S. passport or passport card | Yes | Issued by the U.S. Department of State |
| U.S. military ID | Yes | Must be current and include photo |
| Expired ID of any kind | No | Even if recently expired |
| Student ID | No | Not government-issued |
| Employee badge | No | Not government-issued |
| Foreign passport (without additional verification) | Varies | May require additional credible witness identification |
Important: The name printed on your ID must match the name printed on the document you are having notarized. If your driver's license says "Robert Smith" but the document says "Bob Smith," this can cause problems. Let your notary know in advance if there is any name discrepancy so we can work through it before the appointment.
2. Your Unsigned Documents
This is the second most common mistake I see: signers who have already signed the document before the appointment. Do not sign anything until you are in the presence of the notary. Kansas law requires the notary to witness your signature. If you have already signed, the document may need to be reprinted.
What to check before your appointment:
- Print all documents that need to be notarized (unless your notary is providing them, as in a loan signing)
- Review the documents beforehand so you understand what you are signing
- Leave all signature and date lines blank — you will complete these in front of the notary
- Bring the correct number of copies if multiple originals are needed
3. Any Additional Signers or Witnesses
Some documents require multiple signers or witnesses. If your document requires a co-signer, spouse, or witness, they must also:
- Be physically present at the appointment
- Bring their own valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID
- Be prepared to sign in front of the notary
For real estate closings: Both buyers and sellers (if applicable) should be present with their IDs. If one party cannot attend, a power of attorney may need to be arranged in advance.
4. Knowledge of the Document Contents
A notary public in Kansas cannot provide legal advice or explain what a document means. That is the role of your attorney, title company, or lender. However, the notary will ask you to confirm that you:
- Understand what you are signing
- Are signing willingly and without coercion
- Acknowledge the document as your own act
If you have questions about the content of your documents, consult with your attorney or the party who prepared them before your notary appointment.
5. Payment
Be prepared to pay for notary services at the time of your appointment. Kansas state law caps the notary fee at $5 per signature for acknowledgments and jurats. However, mobile notary services include additional travel fees that are separate from the state-regulated notary fee.
What to expect for pricing:
- Notary fee: $5 per signature (state maximum)
- Mobile travel fee: Varies by distance — typically $75 to $200+ depending on location
- Loan signing packages: Flat fee that includes all signatures in the package
Accepted payment methods vary by notary. I accept cash, credit card, Zelle, and Venmo. Always confirm accepted payment methods when you book your appointment.
Special Situations
Hospital or Nursing Home Notarizations
If the notarization is taking place at a hospital or care facility in Kansas City or the surrounding area, keep these additional considerations in mind:
- The signer must be alert and aware of what they are signing
- A nurse or staff member may need to confirm the signer's mental competency
- Have the signer's ID accessible — a family member can bring it if needed
- Ensure the facility allows visitors at the scheduled time
Power of Attorney Documents
Power of attorney documents have specific requirements:
- The principal (person granting power) must be present and competent
- The agent (person receiving power) does not need to be present for the notarization
- Some POA documents require witnesses in addition to notarization
Real Estate Loan Signings
For mortgage closings and real estate transactions:
- Bring two forms of ID if possible (primary + backup)
- The title company or lender will provide the documents — you do not need to print anything
- Allow 45 to 90 minutes for the signing appointment
- Both spouses may need to sign even if only one is on the loan
Quick Checklist: What to Bring
Here is your at-a-glance checklist to save or screenshot before your appointment:
- Valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, military ID, or state ID)
- Your unsigned documents — do not sign before the notary arrives
- Any co-signers or witnesses with their own valid IDs
- Payment — cash, card, Zelle, or Venmo (confirm with your notary)
- A pen — your notary will have one, but it never hurts to have a backup
- Questions answered — consult your attorney or lender about document contents beforehand
Book Your Notary Appointment Today
Need a mobile notary in Basehor, Leavenworth, or the Kansas City area? I bring professional, certified notary services directly to your home, office, hospital, or any convenient location. Same-day and evening appointments are available.
Bonita Payton is an NNA certified notary public and loan signing agent serving Leavenworth County, Wyandotte County, Johnson County, and the greater Kansas City metro area.
