Because your time, stamp, and gas aren’t free.

You printed the docs. You drove 45 minutes. You triple-checked everything. You dropped it before cutoff. And now… crickets.

No payment. No updates. Just tumbleweeds where your paycheck should be.

Don’t panic — and don’t just vent on Facebook either. Here’s a step-by-step game plan for what to do when a signing service ghosts you on payment.

Step 1: Check Your Contract or Confirmation

Most signing confirmations include a payment timeline (net 30, net 45, net 60).
Before raising any flags, confirm that you’re actually overdue.

✅ Double-check:

Was your invoice submitted?
Was the job completed without errors?
Was the payment window clearly stated?

Step 2: Send a Friendly Follow-Up

Keep it professional.
Subject: Follow-up on Outstanding Invoice – [Order #1234]
Body:

“Hi [Name], I hope you’re well. I’m following up on the signing I completed on [date] for [borrower name or order number]. Per the payment terms, I expected payment by [date]. Can you confirm the status of this invoice? Thank you!”
You’d be surprised how often this polite nudge gets things moving.

Step 3: Re-Send Your Invoice

No response? Re-send the invoice. Include:

Order number
Borrower name
Signing date
Property address (if applicable)
Total fee
W-9 if they require it
Use email and their portal, if they have one.

Step 4: Make a Phone Call

Sometimes, emails just aren’t enough.
Call the accounting department directly.
Be calm, factual, and persistent — not emotional.

Say:

“Hi, I completed a signing on [date] for your company and have not received payment. I’ve sent a couple of emails but haven’t heard back. I’d like to resolve this today — who can I speak to about this invoice?”
Document who you speak with and what they say.

Step 5: Send a Final Demand Letter

Still nothing? Time to escalate (professionally).

Subject: Final Payment Request Before Formal Complaint
Body:

“As of today, this invoice is [#] days past due. I have made several good faith efforts to resolve this. If payment is not received within 7 business days, I will be forced to file a complaint with the title company, relevant forums, and state agencies. I would prefer to resolve this amicably.”
This shows you mean business without burning bridges — yet.

Step 6: Report It (If Necessary)

If they still don’t pay? Hit back where it matters:

Report to the title company listed on the order
File a complaint with the BBB
Leave a detailed review on NotaryRotary, 123Notary, or Notary Cafe
Share on vetted notary Facebook groups (with proof)
File with small claims court if the amount justifies it
Let your experience be a warning to others — and potentially the push that gets you paid.

Pro Tips to Avoid This in the Future

Research signing services before accepting jobs
Stick to reputable companies with positive reviews
Avoid working with services that have a history of slow or non-payment
Use invoice tracking software or spreadsheets
Consider collecting upfront for non-escrow work (like general notary work)
At Notary Academy, We Train You for the Real World
Not just how to fill out a certificate — but how to run your business, collect your fees, and protect your time.
Getting stiffed isn’t just frustrating — it’s a hit to your bottom line. You deserve to be paid. Period.