Notary Seal and Federal Apostille Services: All-in-One Support from Orange County Apostille
Whether you’re a new notary public or someone needing to authenticate federal documents for international use, the process can be time-consuming and confusing. At Orange County Apostille, we simplify it by offering comprehensive support for obtaining your notary seal and processing your federal apostille—all in one convenient place.
To begin your notary or apostille journey, book your appointment with Orange County Apostille today.
What Is a Notary Seal?
A notary seal is the official stamp or embosser used by a commissioned notary public to authenticate documents. It confirms that a document was signed in the presence of a licensed notary who verified the identity of the signer.
To become a notary and receive your official seal, you’ll need to:
- Complete a notary education course (in some states like California)
- Pass a state-administered notary exam
- Submit a notary application to your Secretary of State
- Undergo a background check and fingerprinting
- Purchase a notary bond and supplies, including your seal
👉 Learn more from the National Notary Association
What Is a Federal Apostille?
An apostille is a form of authentication that allows documents to be legally accepted in Hague Apostille Convention member countries. For federal documents, an apostille is issued by the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C.
Federal documents commonly needing apostilles include:
- FBI background checks
- U.S. naturalization certificates
- Social Security Administration letters
- IRS documents
- Patent and trademark records
- Military service documentation
Orange County Apostille Can Help You With Both
We provide two integrated services:
- Assistance with obtaining your notary commission and seal
- Support in processing your federal apostille through our Washington, D.C. office
1. Notary Commission and Seal Services
- Help registering with the California Secretary of State
- Guidance on fingerprinting and live scan procedures via California Department of Justice
- Access to approved education providers like California Notary Public Education
- Purchasing notary supplies such as journals and official seals
2. Federal Apostille Services
Once we receive your federal documents:
- We send them to our Washington, D.C. office for Department of State apostille processing
- Typical turnaround: 2 weeks from D.C. receipt
👉 Visit the Office of Authentications for more info.
Types of Documents We Help Apostille
FBI Background Checks
Used for visas, work permits, immigration, or adoption abroad. 👉 Submit your request through the FBI Identity History Summary Checks portal.
IRS Tax Transcripts
Required for foreign real estate transactions or international banking. 👉 Get official copies from the IRS Get Transcript Portal.
SSA Benefit Letters
Verifies Social Security income or disability for foreign consulates. 👉 Access your documents via the Social Security Administration.
Naturalization Certificates
Necessary for dual citizenship or foreign residency. 👉 Request replacements through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Federal Court Documents
Used in international legal cases. 👉 Visit United States Courts to locate and request records.
Patent and Trademark Filings
Important for international intellectual property disputes. 👉 File through the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
FDA Certificates
Used for exporting food, medicine, or cosmetics. 👉 Learn about FDA authentication on the Food and Drug Administration website.
Military Service Records
Often needed for foreign benefits, pensions, or verification. 👉 Request a DD-214 form via the National Archives.
Timeline for Federal Apostilles
After receiving your federal document, we:
- Verify its eligibility for apostille
- Submit it to the U.S. Department of State
- Return your authenticated document in approximately 2 weeks
We also provide email updates and tracking numbers with every order.
Benefits of Using Orange County Apostille
- One-stop solution for both notary services and apostille authentication
- Transparent pricing and no hidden fees
- Trusted by professionals and individuals alike
- Fast, trackable, and secure document handling
Avoid These Common Mistakes
- Using photocopies instead of certified originals
- Sending state documents to federal offices (and vice versa)
- Failing to notarize documents that require it
- Not checking whether the destination country is a Hague Convention member 👉 Reference the full list of member countries on the HCCH official website
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does it take to apostille a federal document?
It takes about two weeks once the document is sent to our Washington, D.C. office.
Can I get help with my notary license and apostille services in the same place?
Yes. We assist with both services, making us your one-stop shop for notary and apostille needs.
Do apostilles expire?
Apostilles don’t technically expire, but some receiving countries require that they be issued within a recent timeframe, often within the last 6 months.
Conclusion
At Orange County Apostille, we understand how vital it is to have both notarized and authenticated documents—especially when time and accuracy matter. Whether you’re becoming a notary, sending an FBI background check abroad, or preparing for international legal use, we’re here to support every step.
Book your appointment now and take the stress out of the notary and apostille process.
