# Estate Planning Document Signing Checklist

**Prepared by iNotariz, LLC**

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## Purpose of This Guide

Estate planning documents are among the most important papers a person will ever sign. Proper execution protects your wishes and avoids future legal complications.

This checklist is designed to help attorneys, families, and individuals prepare for a smooth and compliant signing experience — whether in person or via Remote Online Notarization (RON).

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## Before the Signing Appointment

### 1. Confirm Document Requirements
- Verify with your attorney the exact order in which documents must be signed
- Confirm which documents require witnesses in addition to the notary
- Clarify any special notarization language required by your state or the document itself

### 2. Gather Proper Identification
All signers must present valid, government-issued photo identification, such as:
- Driver’s license
- State-issued ID card
- U.S. Passport
- Military ID

**Tip**: Have IDs ready and easily accessible before the notary arrives or the RON session begins.

### 3. Prepare the Physical Space (For Mobile or In-Person)
- Choose a quiet, well-lit area with a stable table
- Have all original documents laid out in the correct signing order
- Minimize distractions (pets, children, background noise)

### 4. Arrange for Required Witnesses
Some estate documents require one or two witnesses in addition to the notary. Witnesses must:
- Be present for the entire signing
- Have valid photo ID
- Be mentally competent and not have a conflict of interest (e.g., they should not be beneficiaries in most cases)

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## During the Signing

### Signing Order
Always follow the exact order specified by your attorney. Signing documents out of sequence can invalidate certain provisions.

### Identification Verification
The notary will:
- Examine your photo ID
- Ask you to confirm your identity verbally
- Conduct knowledge-based authentication questions (for RON sessions)

### Notarization Process
- The notary will review the notarial certificate language on each document
- You will sign in the notary’s presence
- The notary will apply their seal and complete the certificate

**Important**: Do not sign any document until the notary instructs you to do so.

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## After the Signing

- You should receive either physical copies or a secure digital version of all executed documents
- Retain copies in a safe location
- Provide copies to your attorney as requested
- Consider storing original documents in a fireproof safe or with your attorney

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## Special Considerations for Remote Online Notarization (RON)

RON is fully legal in Texas and accepted across the United States for most estate planning documents. When using RON:

- Test your technology in advance
- Have a backup device ready if possible
- Ensure all required witnesses can join the same video session
- Be prepared to show the front and back of your ID clearly on camera

We are happy to walk you or your clients through the RON process in advance of the appointment.

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## Documents We Commonly Notarize

- Last Will and Testament
- Revocable Living Trust
- Durable Power of Attorney (Financial)
- Medical Power of Attorney / Directive to Physicians
- HIPAA Release
- Declaration of Guardian
- Transfer on Death Deed
- Lady Bird Deed

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## How iNotariz Can Help

We specialize in estate planning signings and understand the sensitivity and precision these documents require. Whether you need a mobile appointment at a client’s home, hospital, or senior living facility — or prefer the speed and convenience of RON — we are experienced in handling these matters with care and professionalism.

**Contact us to schedule or discuss your needs:**

Margaret Josey  
Margaret@iNotariz.com  
469.774.3370

Jeremy Josey  
Jeremy@iNotariz.com  
214.235.2483

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*This checklist is provided for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always follow the specific instructions of your estate planning attorney.*