NSA NSA - Notary Signing Agent Business Practices and Professional Development Questions and Answers 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What should an NSA do to confirm a signing appointment before traveling to the location?
- Confirm the appointment details, location, and document delivery status with the hiring company in advance (Correct answer)
- Simply arrive at the scheduled time without prior confirmation
- Wait for the borrower to call and confirm directly
- Check the county recorder's office for confirmation
Correct answer: Confirm the appointment details, location, and document delivery status with the hiring company in advance
Pre-appointment confirmation ensures the NSA has accurate information, documents are ready, and reduces wasted trips due to cancellations or changes.
Question 2: An NSA realizes they have double-booked two signing appointments at the same time. What is the best course of action?
- Notify both hiring companies immediately so they can reschedule or find coverage (Correct answer)
- Cancel both and start fresh
- Attend whichever appointment pays more without telling the other
- Ask the borrowers to resolve the scheduling conflict themselves
Correct answer: Notify both hiring companies immediately so they can reschedule or find coverage
Prompt communication with hiring companies when scheduling conflicts arise is a professional obligation and preserves the NSA's business reputation.
Question 3: Why is it advisable for an NSA to carry a supply kit (extra pens, a notary stamp, etc.) to every appointment?
- To be prepared for common needs that arise during signings and avoid delays (Correct answer)
- Federal regulations require NSAs to supply all signing materials
- To charge borrowers for supplies as an additional fee
- To replace the lender's documents if they are incomplete
Correct answer: To be prepared for common needs that arise during signings and avoid delays
Being well-prepared with essential supplies ensures the signing can proceed smoothly without interruptions caused by missing materials.
Question 4: What is the most appropriate way for an NSA to solicit new business from title companies and signing services?
- Professional outreach including emails, phone calls, and referrals highlighting certifications and experience (Correct answer)
- Cold calling borrowers directly from public loan records
- Advertising loan products alongside notary services
- Contacting real estate agents to offer mortgage advice
Correct answer: Professional outreach including emails, phone calls, and referrals highlighting certifications and experience
Professional outreach to signing services and title companies is the standard, ethical method for building an NSA client base without crossing into unauthorized mortgage solicitation.
Question 5: Which of the following is a legitimate business deduction for a self-employed NSA?
- Mileage driven to and from signing appointments (Correct answer)
- Personal grocery expenses
- Mortgage payments on a personal residence not used for business
- Gym membership unrelated to work
Correct answer: Mileage driven to and from signing appointments
Mileage driven for business purposes, including travel to signing appointments, is a deductible business expense for self-employed NSAs reporting to the IRS.
Question 6: What is the recommended practice for setting signing fees as an NSA?
- Research market rates in your area, factor in travel, time, and experience, and set competitive yet fair fees (Correct answer)
- Always charge the lowest possible fee to get the most assignments
- Match the highest fee in the region regardless of experience level
- Let signing services set your fee without negotiation
Correct answer: Research market rates in your area, factor in travel, time, and experience, and set competitive yet fair fees
Understanding local market rates and factoring in all costs allows an NSA to set fees that are competitive, sustainable, and reflective of their experience and value.
NSA NSA - Notary Signing Agent Business Practices and Professional Development Questions and Answers 2
What should an NSA do to confirm a signing appointment before traveling to the location?