The Military Family's Guide to Getting Documents Notarized at Fort Greely

If you're stationed at Fort Greely or you're a military family member living in the Delta Junction area, you've probably already discovered that life moves fast. Between deployments, PCS moves, and the everyday demands of military life, paperwork has a way of piling up. And a surprising amount of that paperwork needs one crucial thing: a notary stamp.

Whether you're signing a power of attorney before deployment, finalizing real estate documents back home, or handling family legal matters, getting documents notarized is one of those tasks that seems simple until you actually need to do it. Especially when you're living in one of the more remote duty stations in Alaska.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about getting documents notarized at and around Fort Greely: from on-base resources to mobile notary options that come to you.

Why Military Families Need Notary Services More Than Most

Let's be real: military families deal with more official paperwork than the average household. The nature of military life means you're constantly updating legal documents, authorizing others to act on your behalf, and handling transactions across state lines.

Here are just some of the situations where you'll need a notary:

• Powers of Attorney (POA) – Essential before deployments or extended training exercises

• Real estate transactions – Buying, selling, or refinancing property (often in another state)

• Vehicle titles and registrations – Especially when transferring ownership across state lines

• Family legal documents – Custody agreements, guardianship papers, adoption documents

• Financial documents – Loan applications, retirement paperwork, investment accounts

• Wills and estate planning – Protecting your family's future

The challenge? Many of these documents are time-sensitive. When you're facing a deployment date or a closing deadline, the last thing you need is to struggle finding a notary.

On-Base Notary Resources for Fort Greely Families

Fort Greely doesn’t have a formal Legal Office on post. However, there is typically a Soldier on site who can perform notary services: you’ll need to contact your unit directly to find out who that is and how to schedule it.

For anything that requires a full legal office, the closest military option is the Fort Wainwright Legal Assistance Office in Fairbanks: which is about a 100-mile trip from Fort Greely.

And that’s exactly why a mobile notary can be such a relief out here. If you can’t track down the unit notary (or you just don’t have time for a long drive to Wainwright), a mobile notary is often the most reliable and convenient choice: you pick the time and place, and the notary comes to you.

One more thing that matters a lot at Fort Greely: Arctic Trekking, LLC has official post/base access. Not all mobile notaries are allowed on base, which can leave you stuck meeting someone at the gate or trying to coordinate a handoff. With us, we can meet you directly at your home or office on Fort Greely so you don’t have to add extra steps to an already busy day.

Fort Wainwright Legal Assistance Office

For more comprehensive legal assistance services, many Fort Greely families also utilize the Fort Wainwright Legal Assistance Office. Located at 1562 Gaffney Road, Building 1562, they offer notary services on a walk-in basis during open hours.

You can contact them at (907) 353-6518 to verify current hours and services.

Keep in mind: Legal Assistance Office services are available to Soldiers, retirees, and their family members with valid military ID cards.

The Reality of On-Base Notary Services

While on-base resources are valuable, they do come with some limitations that military families should be aware of:

• Limited hours – Most legal offices operate during standard business hours, which can conflict with work schedules or training

• Wait times – Walk-in services can mean waiting, especially during busy periods

• Distance – Fort Wainwright is about 100 miles from Fort Greely, making it a significant trip

• Availability – Staff changes, leave schedules, and mission requirements can affect service availability

None of this is a knock on the hardworking folks at these offices: they do great work. But sometimes military life doesn't fit neatly into office hours.

When a Mobile Notary Makes Sense

This is where mobile notary services become a game-changer for military families at Fort Greely.

A mobile notary travels to you. That means you can get documents notarized at your home, on post, at your workplace, or wherever is most convenient. For families in the Delta Junction and Fort Greely area, this flexibility can be invaluable.

Here's when a mobile notary might be your best option:

Before Deployment

When you're in the final days before deploying, your schedule is packed. Between briefs, equipment checks, and spending time with family, carving out time to visit a legal office isn't always possible. A mobile notary can meet you at home in the evening or on a weekend.

Real Estate Closings

If you're buying or selling property: especially in another state: you'll likely have a stack of documents that need notarization. Real estate transactions often have tight deadlines, and mobile notaries are experienced in handling loan signing appointments efficiently.

Family Emergencies

Sometimes documents need to be signed urgently. Medical authorizations, emergency powers of attorney, or other time-sensitive paperwork can't always wait for the next available office appointment.

Busy Family Schedules

With kids, jobs, and the general chaos of military family life, sometimes the easiest solution is having someone come to you. No need to load everyone in the car, find parking, and wait in line.

Documents You'll Want to Have Ready

To make your notarization appointment as smooth as possible: whether on-base or with a mobile notary: come prepared.

Bring valid identification. A current, government-issued photo ID is required. Your military ID, driver's license, or passport will work.

Don't sign yet! This is important. You must sign the document in front of the notary. If you've already signed, the notary cannot notarize it.

Know what type of notarization you need. Different documents require different notarial acts:

• Acknowledgments – You're acknowledging that you signed the document voluntarily

• Jurats – You're swearing or affirming that the contents of the document are true

• Copy certifications – Certifying that a copy matches an original document

If you're unsure which type you need, the notary can help you figure it out.

Have all signers present. If a document requires multiple signatures, everyone needs to be there with their own valid ID.

Tips for a Smooth Notarization Experience

Whether you're heading to the legal office or scheduling a mobile notary, these tips will help things go smoothly:

1. Call ahead – Confirm hours, availability, and any specific requirements

2. Check your documents – Make sure all pages are present and none are missing

3. Verify ID requirements – Confirm what identification you'll need to bring

4. Leave documents unsigned – Remember, sign only in front of the notary

5. Allow extra time – Build in buffer time in case things take longer than expected

6. Keep copies – After notarization, make copies of everything for your records

Your Paperwork Shouldn't Add to Your Stress

Military life comes with enough challenges. Getting a document notarized shouldn't be one of them.

Whether you use on-base resources, schedule a mobile notary, or explore remote online notarization, the key is knowing your options. Fort Greely families have choices: and the right choice depends on your schedule, your documents, and what works best for your situation.

If you're in the Delta Junction or Fort Greely area and need notary services that work around your schedule, Arctic Trekking, LLC is here to help. We understand military life, and we're happy to come to you: because your mission is busy enough without hunting down a notary.

Disclaimer: Arctic Trekking, LLC provides notary services and is not a law firm. We are not attorneys licensed to practice law and do not provide legal advice or accept fees for legal advice.