Tag Archives: notary

Notary Stamps – The Legal Requirements

If you have a Notary Stamp, you must follow certain legal requirements when obtaining, using, and disposing of the stamp. These requirements may include the shape of the stamp, the color of the ink pad used to ink it, and the border of the stamp. In addition, if you use a serrated or milled edge stamp, you may be held liable for misdemeanors.

Photo by Stephen Goldberg on Unsplash

Ordering a notary stamp

When you order notary stamps Illinois, you must keep a few things in mind. You need to ensure that the stamp is accurate and meets your state’s requirements. For example, the round stamp must contain the proper ink color.

The notary stamp is important because it authenticates notarial services. This type of rubber stamp is available in various shapes and sizes. A good quality one will come with a built-in ink pad to re-stamp quickly and easily. It is also important to ensure the stamp has a good impression.

If you are not satisfied with your notary stamp, you can contact the notary association in your state to inquire about replacements. In addition to replacements, you can get a free e-notary guide to help you navigate the intricacies of online notarization.

Circular or Rectangular Shape

Notary stamps are available in circular or rectangular forms depending on the state’s laws. These stamps are used to notarize documents and ensure that the notary’s signature is authentic. In addition, they help prevent identity theft.

The notary stamp consists of the notary’s name and the name of the state in which they reside. It may also include the commission expiration date.

A notary public seal must contain the notary’s name and the word “notary public.” It may also include the county in which the notary resides.

In addition, a notary stamp must have a serrated or milled edge border. The notary seal is only considered official if it includes the required information.

Serrated or Milled Edge Border

If you are a notary public, you should know the notary stamp requirements in your state. Notary public certificates must have a notary seal that includes the name of the notary, their commission expiration date, and the names of the state and county where the notary’s oath and bond were filed.

Notary stamps should be round or rectangular. Each state’s law may regulate the type and shape of the notary seal. The minimum size for the stamp is one inch by two and a half inches.

The notary seal must be in a format that allows photographic reproduction. It must be legible. In addition, the notary must use indelible ink.

Indelible Ink Pad

The notary seal must be stamped with indelible ink. There are several types of ink pads to choose from. Some of them are designed to be permanent, and others are not. Generally, you’ll find that you need a pad that’s made for semi-porous surfaces.

You can get an ink pad with a raised surface if you’re inking a stamp larger than the standard stamp pad. For example, you may use a pad with a raised surface if you’re using a large wooden stamp.

Depending on the surface you’re inking, go with an oil-based ink. However, solvent ink is best if you’re not working with semi-porous material. It’s quick-drying and can be used with water-based coloring mediums.

Liability for Misdemeanors

When it comes to Notary Stamps and Liability, there are two main types of offenses a Notary can face, and these are categorized as misdemeanors and felonies. A Notary can be charged with misdemeanors for different reasons, including mishandling a document, failing to comply with a sworn order, executing a document without a certificate, or failing to follow a procedure. However, these same penalties are not always imposed. Sometimes, a Notary may face vicarious liability, and a Notary can be sued in civil court.

Numerous laws and regulations on the books govern the performance of notarial duties, but it’s still important to keep your wits about you. 

Disposing of a Notary Stamp

Disposing a notary stamp is a process that must be carried out according to local laws. A notary stamp is a device that notaries use to legalize the recording of instruments in the courtroom. Whenever a notary acts on behalf of a person, the notary public is legally required to use an official notary stamp. However, a notary may imprint a notary stamp on an electronic record.

A notary stamp should be a rectangular seal, at least 1-1/2 inches by 2-1/2 inches, with a serrated or milled edge border. The seal must be affixed with a rubber stamp or embosser.

Notary Renewal Process in Florida

If you have been serving the state of Florida with notary services, then you know that getting an annual renewal is a part of the process to keep your notary services valid. If you are getting ready to get your renewal, here are the steps you will need to take.

Complete an Application with Bond Package

The first step you will need to take is to apply for your renewal with the state of Florida. This is a simple application process with an order for your surety bond package. Once you application it completed, it will then be reviewed by the state’s governing body for notaries, and approved or denied. Often these applications are only denied when you have not completed the required education course. For renewals that have lapsed for less than a year, no education course is required. If you let it lapse longer than that, you must take the education course again.

Receive Your Stamp

Upon approval of your Florida notary renewal application, you will receive your stamp in the mail. This is one of the most important parts of serving as a notary, so you need to make sure that it is correct and will work for all of your clients.

Start Performing Notarial Duties

Once the application is approved and you have received your stamp in the mail, you can begin performing your notarial duties once again. After your year is up, you will be able to start this process over again and get another renewal for your notary services. Whether you are working in Florida or another state, the steps are similar to getting your renewal. However, if you move to a different state after having one notary, you may need to start the initial process over to receive the notary stamp in a new state.