Available 24/7 by Appointment | In-office and Mobile
FAQ
Available 7 Days a Week
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are a list of frequently asked questions, but if you have a question that is not listed, please feel free to contact us so that we may help you move forward.
Apostille – FAQs:
How do I know if I need an apostille or authentication?
This depends on the destination country. Hague member countries require an apostille. Non-member countries require authentication and legalization. We confirm this during intake before processing begins.
Can you process documents issued outside Illinois?
In many cases, yes. Apostilles must be issued by the authority where the document originated. We confirm eligibility and coordinate the correct process for out-of-state documents.
Is my information kept confidential?
Yes. We handle sensitive legal and personal documents daily and operate with strict confidentiality and discretion.
What is included in your Illinois apostille service?
Our Illinois apostille service includes document review, confirmation of destination requirements, submission preparation, coordination with the Illinois Secretary of State, the state filing fee, first notarization when needed, and communication throughout the process.
Do my documents need to be notarized first?
Some documents must be notarized, while others must be issued as certified originals. We review each document and advise you before submission.
How long does the apostille process take?
Straightforward Illinois apostilles are typically completed the same or next business day when possible. Timing may vary based on document eligibility, Illinois Secretary of State office hours, government processing, holidays, or additional certification requirements. Federal, out-of-state, embassy, consular, and multi-step legalization requests require additional processing time.
How much does an Illinois apostille cost?
Illinois apostille service is $95 for the first document and $45 for each additional Illinois document submitted in the same order. The Illinois Secretary of State fee and first notarization are included. Additional notarizations, shipping, translations, document procurement, and any additional legalization requirements are quoted separately when applicable.
Estate Planning Services – FAQs:
Do you offer estate planning signing appointments?
Yes. We offer estate planning signing support for attorney-prepared and online estate planning documents, including will-based and trust-based document sets. If you are unsure which signing package fits your documents, please contact us before booking.
Do my documents require witnesses?
Some estate planning and legal documents require witnesses. Requirements vary depending on the document and the instructions provided by the attorney or issuing authority.
Can you provide witnesses for my documents?
Yes. Witness coordination may be available for qualifying appointments when arranged in advance.
Can family members serve as witnesses?
Sometimes, but many attorneys or institutions require witnesses who are not related to the signer and who do not have an interest in the document. If needed, witness coordination may be available.
Do you prepare or provide estate planning documents?
No. We do not draft or provide legal documents. Our role is limited to the professional execution and notarization of documents prepared by an attorney or an online legal document service.
Do you provide legal advice or explain my documents?
No. We do not provide legal advice, interpret legal documents, or advise you on what you should sign. We help ensure documents are executed correctly and in the proper order based on the instructions provided and applicable notarial requirements.
What is the difference between an Individual Estate Document Signing and a Complete Estate Plan Signing?
Individual Estate Document Signing is for 1–2 prepared estate planning documents, such as a Will, Power of Attorney, or Living Will. Complete Estate Plan Signing is for multi-document Will or Trust estate plans and related supporting documents. If you’re unsure which service fits your documents, contact us before booking.
Do you work with law firms or businesses that require ongoing notary services?
Yes. We regularly work with law firms, businesses, and organizations that require reliable notary, document authentication, and courier services. If your organization requires recurring or large-volume services, please contact us to discuss scheduling and service options.
Are estate plan signing prices fixed?
Published pricing reflects the standard scope of the selected signing service. Additional charges may apply for witness coordination, additional signers, extended travel, deed recording, after-hours scheduling, or other special circumstances. Any additional charges will be confirmed before the appointment.
Do you offer in-office, mobile, and Remote Online estate plan signings?
Yes. In-office and mobile estate plan signing appointments are available. Remote Online Notarization may also be available for eligible documents. Contact us if you are unsure which appointment type is appropriate.
Do you provide witnesses if my documents require them?
Witness coordination may be available as an add-on service, subject to scheduling, availability, and document requirements.
Can you record deeds with the county?
Yes. Courier service for deed recording may be available in DuPage County and other greater Chicagoland counties. County recording fees are separate.
What should I bring to my appointment?
All signers must bring valid, unexpired, government-issued photo identification that includes your signature. If witnesses are being provided by the client, witnesses must also bring valid ID.
What if my attorney has special signing instructions?
That is not a problem. We are accustomed to working from attorney-provided signing instructions when available.
Do you work with attorney-prepared and online estate plans?
Yes. We regularly assist with estate planning documents prepared by attorneys as well as documents generated through online legal platforms. It is always a good idea to have your documents reviewed by an attorney prior to notarization and signing, as a notary cannot provide legal advice on your documents.
Need Guidance?
If you’re unsure which service best fits your situation, we’re happy to assist. We’ll review your needs and confirm the most appropriate path forward before booking.