First Step Financial Services – Terms and Conditions

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Welcome to First Step Financial Services. By accessing our website and using our notary, financial, loan signing, business credit consulting, and Apostille services, you agree to the following Terms and Conditions. These terms govern your use of our services and ensure a clear, professional, and legally compliant experience for all clients.

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All notary services must comply with Ohio state laws, including requirements for valid identification, signer presence, and document completeness. It is the responsibility of the signer to ensure that documents are properly prepared before the notarization appointment. Notaries at First Step Financial Services serve as impartial witnesses and do not provide legal advice or draft documents. For loan signing services, we facilitate the signing process but do not offer explanations of loan terms—borrowers should direct such questions to their lender or title company.

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Remote Online Notarization (RON) services are conducted through Ohio-approved digital platforms that require identity verification and knowledge-based authentication. Not all documents are eligible for RON, and it is the signer’s responsibility to confirm the validity of remote notarization for their specific transaction. For mobile notary services, travel fees apply based on distance and appointment time, and we require at least 24 hours’ notice for cancellations or rescheduling.

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Clients utilizing our business credit consulting services acknowledge that results vary based on individual financial circumstances, business structure, and adherence to credit-building strategies. We do not guarantee specific credit outcomes, funding approvals, or credit score increases. Similarly, Apostille services involve working with the Ohio Secretary of State, and processing times are subject to state timelines. While we assist with Apostille requests, we are not responsible for delays caused by government agencies.

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All payments for services are due at the time of the appointment, and refunds are issued only in cases of overpayment or service non-completion due to our error. Completed notarizations cannot be refunded as they are legally executed services. We reserve the right to refuse service if a signer does not meet Ohio notary requirements, lacks valid identification, appears coerced, or presents a document that is incomplete, fraudulent, or outside our notarial authority.

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By using our services, you acknowledge and agree that First Step Financial Services is not liable for any legal disputes, rejections, or document-related consequences resulting from improper completion or use of notarized documents. You also agree that any legal disputes related to our services shall be resolved under the laws of the State of Ohio.

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We may update these Terms and Conditions periodically, and continued use of our services constitutes acceptance of any changes. If you have any questions, please contact us at tamika.williamsfsfs@gmail.com or 216.220.9991.

 

These terms and conditions outline the rules and regulations for the use of First Step Financial Services' website, located at firststepfinancialservices.com.

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By accessing this website, we assume you accept these terms and conditions. Do not continue to use First Step Financial Services if you do not agree to all the terms and conditions stated on this page.

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Terminology

The following terminology applies to these Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Disclaimer Notice:

• "Client," "You," and "Your" refer to you, the person accessing this website and using our services.

• "Company," "Ourselves," "We," "Our," and "Us" refer to First Step Financial Services.

• "Party," "Parties," or "Us" refer to both the Client and ourselves.

• All terms refer to the offer, acceptance, and consideration of payment necessary to undertake the process of our assistance to the Client in the most appropriate manner for the express purpose of meeting the Client’s needs in respect to the provision of the Company’s stated services, in accordance with and subject to prevailing Ohio state laws.

 

Use of Cookies

We employ the use of cookies. By accessing First Step Financial Services, you agree to the use of cookies in agreement with our Privacy Policy. Cookies help us enhance website functionality and improve user experience. You may disable cookies through your browser settings, but doing so may affect website functionality.

 

Intellectual Property Rights

Unless otherwise stated, First Step Financial Services and/or its licensors own the intellectual property rights for all material on this website. All rights are reserved. You may access and use our website for personal use only, subject to restrictions set in these terms and conditions.

You must not:

• Republish material from First Step Financial Services

• Sell, rent, or sub-license material from First Step Financial Services

• Reproduce, duplicate, or copy material from First Step Financial Services

• Redistribute content from First Step Financial Services

This Agreement shall begin on the date you access the website.

 

Comments & User-Generated Content

Certain sections of our website may allow users to post comments or share information. First Step Financial Services does not filter, edit, publish, or review comments before they appear on the website. Comments do not reflect the views or opinions of First Step Financial Services, its agents, or affiliates. Comments reflect the views of the person posting them.

We reserve the right to monitor all comments and remove any that:

• Are inappropriate, offensive, or unlawful

• Infringe on intellectual property rights

• Promote spam, solicitation, or fraudulent activities

 

By posting comments, you grant First Step Financial Services a non-exclusive license to use, reproduce, edit, and authorize others to use your comments in all forms, formats, or media.

 

Hyperlinking to Our Website

Certain organizations may link to our website without prior approval, including:

• Government agencies

• Search engines

• News organizations

• Online directories linking to businesses in the same category

 

Other organizations may request approval to link to our website, including consumer/business directories, community websites, and professional associations. We reserve the right to deny or remove links at our discretion if they misrepresent our services or negatively impact our reputation.

If you wish to link to our website, please email [Your Email] with details, including the URL and context in which the link will be used.

 

Content Liability

We shall not be responsible for any content that appears on external websites linking to us. You agree to defend and protect us from any claims arising from content on your website that links to First Step Financial Services.

No links should appear on any website that could be interpreted as libelous, obscene, criminal, or that infringes on third-party rights.

 

Reservation of Rights

We reserve the right to request the removal of any link to our website at any time. By continuing to link to our website, you agree to comply with these terms.

We also reserve the right to modify these Terms and Conditions at any time. It is your responsibility to review and comply with any updates.

 

iFrames

Without prior written approval, you may not create frames around our web pages that alter the visual presentation or branding of our website.

 

Privacy Policy

Please review our Privacy Policy for details on how we collect, use, and protect your personal information.

 

Disclaimers & Limitation of Liability

We are not attorneys and cannot provide legal advice. We cannot assist clients in completing legal forms, interpreting legal documents, or making decisions regarding legal matters. Clients are advised to seek the advice of a qualified attorney for any legal questions or concerns.

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To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, we exclude all representations, warranties, and conditions related to our website and the use of our services. Nothing in this disclaimer will:

• Limit or exclude our or your liability for fraud or fraudulent misrepresentation.

• Limit any of our or your liabilities in ways not permitted under applicable law.

• Exclude any liabilities that may not be excluded under applicable law.

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All Sales are Final:

• No refunds or returns will be issued for any completed service, including notarizations, apostilles, translations, or any other service provided by First Step Financial Services, unless an error was made by the notary public.

• In the event of a notary error, the notary will correct the error free of charge. The client must notify the notary of the error within 72 hours of the service.

 

Fees and Charges:

• All fees for notary services, apostilles, translations, and other services are clearly outlined on our website and will be communicated to the client prior to the service.

• The notary has the right to charge additional fees as permitted by Ohio law, including travel fees for mobile notary services and administrative fees for complex or time-consuming requests.

• Payment for all services is due at the time of service unless other arrangements have been made in advance. We accept cash, check, and major credit cards.  

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Translations:

• All translations are performed by our trusted partner, Idiomatic Translations. We guarantee the accuracy and completeness of all translations.

• A notarized Certificate of Accuracy is included with all translations.

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Electronic Notarization:

• All notarizations and certificates are performed electronically unless a wet ink signature is specifically requested by the client at the time of the appointment.

• Electronic notarizations are conducted in compliance with Ohio law and are recognized by most states and countries. However, it is the client's responsibility to verify whether the receiving agency or country will accept an electronic notarization and signature.

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Client Responsibility:

• The client is responsible for ensuring the accuracy, completeness, and legality of all documents submitted for notarization, apostille, or translation services.

• Any errors or omissions in the documents may result in delays, additional fees, or rejection by government agencies.

• The client is responsible for understanding the requirements and regulations of the receiving agency or country regarding apostilles, translations, and other document authentication services.

 

International Shipping:

• We offer international shipping services through reputable carriers. However, we are not responsible for any delays, damages, or losses that may occur during shipping.

• The client is responsible for all shipping costs, which will be calculated based on the weight and destination of the package.

• The client is responsible for ensuring that the shipping address is accurate and complete. Any errors or omissions may result in delays or additional shipping charges.

 

Specific Service Terms:

• Remote Online Notarization (RON) Appointments

  Please be aware of the following policy regarding no-shows for scheduled RON appointments:

  By scheduling an RON appointment, you acknowledge and agree to the terms of this disclaimer.

  • Appointments are required and can be scheduled online, by phone, or via email.

  • The notary reserves the right to cancel or reschedule appointments due to unforeseen circumstances, including inclement weather, illness, or emergencies. The client will be notified as soon as possible in the event of a cancellation or rescheduling.

  • A 15-minute grace period is allowed for appointments. If the client arrives more than 15 minutes late, the notary may cancel the appointment or charge a late fee.

  • No-Show Policy: If you fail to appear for your scheduled RON appointment within the 10-minute grace period following the designated start time, and we are unable to complete the notarization due to your absence, the following refund policy will apply:

    • 50% Refund: You may receive a 50% refund of the service fee.

    • 100% Credit: Alternatively, you may choose to apply 100% of the service fee as a credit towards a future (1) RON service of equal value.

  • Communication Efforts: In the event of a no-show, the notary will make reasonable attempts to contact you (the signer[s])

  • Exclusions: This policy applies to no-shows only. If the RON session cannot be completed due to technical issues on the notary's end, or other circumstances beyond your control, a full refund or rescheduling will be offered.

 

Mobile Notary Services:

• Appointments are required and must be scheduled at least 2 hours in advance.

• Travel fees may apply depending on the distance and location of the appointment.

• The notary reserves the right to refuse service at their discretion, particularly if the client or the requested notarial act appears suspicious, fraudulent, or illegal.

 

Apostille Services:

• All documents submitted for apostille must be original or certified copies.

• Processing times for apostilles vary depending on the type of document and the destination country. We will provide an estimated processing time to the client at the time of service.

• We are not responsible for delays or rejections by government agencies. However, we will make every effort to assist the client in resolving any issues that may arise.

• Electronic Apostilles (e-APPs):

  • Both the notary and the signer must be physically present in Ohio at the time of the electronic notarization.

  • The client must have a valid email address and access to a computer or mobile device with internet connectivity.

  • The client is responsible for ensuring that the receiving agency or country will accept an electronic apostille and electronic signatures.

 

FBI Apostilles:

• FBI apostilles are required for documents that will be used in countries that are not members of the Hague Apostille Convention.

• Processing times for FBI apostilles are typically longer than for standard apostilles.

• We will provide the client with tracking information once the documents have been submitted to the U.S. Department of State.

 

Out-of-State & Other Apostilles:

• We can obtain apostilles for documents issued in other states. However, additional fees and processing times may apply.

 

Embassy Legalization:

Embassy legalization is required for documents that will be used in countries that are not members of the Hague Apostille Convention and do not accept FBI apostilles.

• The process for embassy legalization varies depending on the specific embassy or consulate. We will provide the client with detailed instructions and assistance throughout the process.

• Additional fees may apply for document translation, authentication, and legalization services.

 

Apostille Services - Client Responsibility:

• Document Accuracy:

  • The client is solely responsible for ensuring the accuracy, completeness, and legibility of all documents submitted for apostille services. This includes verifying the spelling of names, dates, and other important information.

  • Any errors or inconsistencies in the documents may result in delays, additional fees, or rejection by government agencies.

 

Document Requirements:

• The client is responsible for understanding and meeting all document requirements for the specific type of apostille being requested and the destination country. This includes providing any necessary supporting documents or certifications.

• Failure to provide the required documents or meet the necessary requirements may result in delays or rejection of the apostille application.

 

Notarization:

• If notarization is required for the documents, the client is responsible for ensuring that the documents are properly notarized before submitting them for apostille services.

• If the documents are already notarized, the client must verify that the notarization meets the requirements of the destination country. If re-notarization is necessary, additional fees may apply.

 

Translation:

• If the documents are in a foreign language, we can notarize the document but we must attach an English notarial certificate.

 

Communication and Updates:

• The client is responsible for providing accurate contact information and responding to any communication from First Step Financial Services regarding the apostille process.

• Failure to respond to communication or provide updated information may result in delays or complications in the apostille process.

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Shipping and Delivery:

• The client is responsible for providing a secure and accurate shipping address for the return of the apostilled documents.

• We are not responsible for any delays, damages, or losses that may occur during shipping.

• If the client requests international shipping, they are responsible for any customs duties, taxes, or other fees that may be imposed by the destination country.

 

By submitting documents for apostille services, the client acknowledges that they have read, understood, and agreed to these terms and conditions and accept full responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, and legality of the documents and for meeting all requirements for the apostille process. Any discrepancies not due to the notary will be at the expense of the client.

By using our services, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to these Terms and Conditions.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to ask.

 

We do not guarantee that the website or the information provided will always be available, up-to-date, or error-free. First Step Financial Services shall not be liable for any losses, damages, or interruptions of service resulting from the use of our website.

 

Governing Law & Dispute Resolution

These Terms and Conditions are governed by the laws of the State of Ohio. Any disputes arising out of these terms shall be resolved in the courts of Ohio.

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If any provision of these terms is found to be unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full effect.