I have been getting quite a few offers for Deed Signings requiring a witness (as in, I need to bring one). I am curious, who does everyone use for a witness? Your mom, spouse, a sibling? Needless to say, I have been turning them all down. Thanks!
There were times I brought my husband, but those were very few. For the most part, no, it is NOT up to me to bring a witness…the signers can line that up.
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I have a friend who is willing to do ‘come along for the ride’. I pay her immediately from my pocket ($20 to $60 – depends on how much TIME is involved)–AND include her fee in my quote.
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@Dianna Of course, this will vary from business owner-to-business owner . . .
For a while (many years ago) I endeavored to have witnesses on standby to serve in that role => but, the opportunities were too few & far in-between.
Now when there are documents for notarization that need witnesses, I advise them during their initial call, provide the parameters of the individuals who can fill that type of role, and ask them to ensure that the witnesses are cognizant of and available for the identified time of the signing appointment.
In my direct experience, it’s truly been the best option overall.
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I am in Louisianan - a two witnesses state. If I provide witnesses, the lender pays each one $25.00 for local signings. UPS stores in my area will let you use their staff for witnesses for $5.00 a signing. Some libraries will let you use their staff for witnesses but you need to call ahead. Also, the borrowers’ insurance agents will let me use their conference rooms and staff for witnessing.
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Since we are both semi retired, my wife is happy to come along for the witness fee. Works great for us.
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Ultimately it is the signer’s responsibility to have a witness present especially if the closing is a mobile closing at their home etc.
- The signing service can send out a request for a " Witness Only" assignment and pay them directly which has been done for a few of my closings or
- Reach out to Notaries in your area. I have three wonderful signing agents who work in the area that I can call if I need to provide a witness. Trust me they understand.
I have also helped them by being a witness for them.
However, I still respond to the assignment as unavailable because I can not provide a witness.
This helps keep a good relationship with the service and maybe they are willing to hire " just a witness" to come and help me.
I do think there are a few signing services that advertise they will provide a witness for the title company and charge them extra then force us to provide one. They still keep a profit from that transaction even though we only received 25.00. But in general, Most signing services are great for helping us Notaries.
Just make sure that you pay your witness and keep track of your expenses because you can write it
off at the end of the year.
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