The Witching Hour: Handling Late-Night Notarizations Safely and Effectively

There’s something magical about the stillness of the late-night hours—until your phone rings at 10 PM with a last-minute notarization request. As mobile notaries, we’re often called to serve during odd hours, especially when people are in a pinch. But how do you handle those late-night signings without sacrificing your safety or sanity?

Whether you’re a night owl or just hustling to grow your business, here’s how to keep your late-night appointments safe, smooth, and successful.

1. Know the Red Flags

Not every late-night signing is worth the risk. If something feels off about the request, listen to your gut. Maybe the client is vague about the details, or the location seems a little too remote for comfort. Always trust your instincts. You’re a notary, not a superhero.

Ask for detailed information upfront—full names, exact location, and a description of the documents. If someone hesitates to provide this, it’s a sign to reconsider.

2. Keep Safety First (Always)

Your safety is non-negotiable. Before heading out, let someone you trust know where you’re going and when you expect to be back. Share your location using your phone’s tracking app. I like to call it my “modern-day breadcrumb trail.” Having an extra layer of accountability can give you peace of mind, especially in the late hours.

If you’re uncomfortable with the setting, suggest meeting in a more public, well-lit location, like a 24-hour diner or gas station. Most clients understand this request, especially if it's for their benefit too.

3. Prep Your Gear for the Dark

Late-night notarizations mean navigating in the dark. Make sure your car is ready with everything you need for smooth sailing. A portable lamp or book light is a game-changer when signing documents in low light. Keep your notary bag organized, with pens, seals, and forms easily accessible.

And don’t forget your phone charger! There’s nothing worse than a dead phone in the middle of nowhere when you’re trying to verify addresses or scan IDs.

4. Set Boundaries with Your Time

While we all want to be available for our clients, setting boundaries is crucial. It’s okay to say no to a late-night signing if you’re feeling burnt out or unsafe. Establish your “witching hour” limit—whether it’s 9 PM or midnight—and stick to it. Your well-being comes first. 

For the clients you do decide to serve late at night, make sure you’re compensated for your time. Late-night appointments should come with premium rates that reflect the inconvenience and risk involved.

5. Stay Calm, Stay Professional

Late-night signings can sometimes be chaotic. Maybe the client is stressed, or the paperwork is a mess. Keep your cool and remain professional. When things feel rushed or disorganized, take a breath and walk through the process like you would during the day. Just because it’s late doesn’t mean you cut corners—your reputation for flawless notarizations is on the line.

6. Be Prepared for the Unexpected

When you're out during the witching hour, anything can happen. I once had to notarize documents in the back of a truck because it was the only place with enough light. Be ready to adapt, and remember to keep your sense of humor intact—after all, it makes for a great story later!

Own Your Late-Night Notarizations:  

Handling late-night notarizations isn’t for everyone, but if you approach them with safety, professionalism, and a little bit of preparedness, they can be a profitable and rewarding part of your mobile notary business. Just remember: not every request is worth the risk, and your safety always comes first. 

Ready for more tips and tricks on growing your notary business? Subscribe to the blog and get the latest posts delivered straight to your inbox—because whether it’s day or night, I’ve got your back!  

Until Next Week, Stay Safe,

Jennifer K. Cooper, JKC Mobile Notary