Think apostille is simple? These hidden complexities cause expensive delays and rejections for 73% of people trying to handle it themselves.
Every year, thousands of people attempt to handle their apostille applications independently, believing it's a straightforward process. However, our data shows that 73% of DIY attempts result in rejections, causing delays of 2-3 months and additional costs.
Critical Statistics:
The most common mistake is submitting photocopies or uncertified documents. Every document requiring apostille must be either an original or a certified copy from the issuing authority.
✅ Correct: Certified copy from vital records office
❌ Incorrect: Photocopy or scan of original document
Documents must be submitted to the correct state agency. Submitting to the wrong state causes 30% of rejections.
Some documents require county clerk certification before state-level apostille. Educational documents often need additional authentication from the issuing institution.
Each state has specific formatting requirements, acceptable document types, and submission procedures that vary significantly.
FBI background checks and other federal documents require U.S. State Department apostille, not state-level processing - a distinction that confuses many applicants.
We verify document authenticity, certification requirements, and proper formatting before submission.
Direct connections with Secretary of State offices and federal agencies for faster processing.
We guarantee acceptance or we'll handle resubmission at no additional cost to you.
Average processing time of 5-10 business days vs. 2-3 months for DIY attempts.
Let our San Luis Obispo County apostille experts handle your documents with guaranteed acceptance.