When might you ask a signer to remove a mask or hat?

Requesting a signer to remove a mask or hat is primarily relevant for identification purposes during Visual Verification. When conducting this verification, it is crucial to clearly see the signer's facial features to match their appearance with the identification documents provided. This ensures that the person signing is indeed who they claim to be, enhancing the integrity and security of the process. Visual Verification relies on establishing a clear visual connection between the individual and their identification to prevent fraud or misrepresentation.

In the context of the other options, while there may be scenarios where a signer might have difficulty speaking or appear uncertain, these situations do not inherently justify the request to remove a mask or hat aimed at ensuring proper identification. Similarly, once the ID verification process is complete, the need for facial recognition diminishes, making it unnecessary to request the removal of a mask or hat at that point. Thus, the focus on identification within the context of Visual Verification underscores the significance of the correct response.