What questions can a notary ask to gauge a signer's competency?

The ability to determine a signer's competency is essential for a notary public, as it ensures that the signer understands the document they are signing and is doing so willingly and voluntarily. Asking questions related to the current date or identifying a recognizable public figure, such as the current president, is an effective way to assess the signer's awareness and cognitive function.

These types of questions can give a notary insight into whether the signer is oriented to time and place, which is critical in assessing their competency. This understanding helps the notary verify that the signer can comprehend the significance of the document they are signing and is not under any undue influence or misunderstanding.

In contrast, questions about occupation or financial status do not effectively gauge a signer's cognitive ability or understanding of the transaction at hand. Similarly, asking about legal jargon may not be relevant, as not all signers need to understand legal terminology to be competent; instead, they need to comprehend the implications of their signature on the document.