What Happens at a Refinance Signing?
Updated 2026-09-19
At a refinance signing, a notary signing agent meets you at a time and place you choose, verifies identification for every borrower, walks through the loan package, notarizes the documents that require it, and returns the package for funding. Most appointments take under 90 minutes.
Who needs to attend
Every borrower on the loan, and in many states a non-borrowing spouse who must sign certain documents. Everyone signing needs their own current photo identification, and names must match the documents. Tell your escrow officer in advance if a name is misspelled or has changed.
The documents you will see
- The note, setting out what you owe and the payment terms
- The mortgage or deed of trust, which is recorded and notarized
- The closing disclosure with final figures
- Affidavits, occupancy statements and compliance forms
- Right of rescission notices, where they apply
After you sign
The agent returns the package by courier. On a refinance of a primary residence there is often a rescission period before funding, during which you may cancel. Your lender's paperwork states the exact deadline.
Making it go smoothly
Ask your escrow officer to send the package for review beforehand, clear a quiet space, and keep your loan officer's number to hand in case a question comes up mid-signing.
Frequently asked questions
- Can we sign in the evening or on a weekend?
- Yes. Signing agents commonly work evenings and weekends to fit borrowers' schedules.
- Can both borrowers sign separately?
- Sometimes, with the title company's approval. Ask them, not the notary.
- What if I need to reschedule?
- Contact the escrow or signing service as early as possible; loan documents can expire.
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Related guides
What Is a Loan Signing Agent?
How a loan signing agent differs from a regular notary, what happens at a signing, and who pays the fee.
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Why deeds need notarization before recording, the formatting the recorder expects, and mistakes to avoid.
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What Do I Need to Bring to a Notary?
A checklist of what to bring to a notary appointment: the document, identification, signers, witnesses and payment.
Read guideHow Long Does It Take to Get Something Notarized?
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Read guideNotarization requirements vary by state and document type. A notary public generally cannot give legal advice, choose a document for you, draft a document unless separately authorized, tell you how to complete a form, or explain the legal effect of signing. If you are unsure whether your document needs notarization or which notarial act is required, ask the agency or person receiving the document, or consult a qualified legal professional.