Notary vs. loan signing agent: what is the difference?

A notary public

A notary public holds a state commission and can notarize signatures. Many notaries handle everyday documents such as affidavits, powers of attorney, vehicle paperwork and school forms.

A loan signing agent

A loan signing agent is a commissioned notary who specializes in mortgage and real estate closing packages. There is no separate state license in New Jersey for the title; it describes experience and training in closing documents, usually along with E&O insurance, a background check and printing equipment for the package.

What the agent does at a closing

The agent receives the documents from the title company or lender, prints them, meets the borrower, verifies identity, guides the borrower to each signature, completes the notarizations, and returns the package by the deadline. The agent does not explain loan terms, answer questions about rates or give legal advice.

Which do you need?

For a mortgage, refinance, HELOC or deed, use a loan signing agent, and the title company will often assign one. For a single affidavit or a form, a regular notary is enough.

Questions to ask before you book

Is the agent a commissioned New Jersey notary? Do they carry errors and omissions insurance? Can they print the package, double-sided if required? When can they return it? What do they charge for travel and printing, and does that fee match what your lender allows?

Common questions

More notary guides

• Signing Agent E&O Insurance: What It Covers and Why
• Loan Modification Signing: What the Notary Does
• What to bring to your loan signing (and what to expect)

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Fees and procedures change; check with the office involved or an attorney for your situation.