A notary seal is a special stamp or embosser used by a notary public to imprint on a document, indicating that they have verified the signer’s identity. There are two types of notary seals: embossed seals and rubber-stamp seals. An embossed seal is raised above the document’s surface and is difficult to replicate, while a rubber-stamp seal is inked onto the document and can be easily copied. The seal typically includes the notary’s name, the state seal, the words “Notary Public,” the county where the notary’s bond is filed, and the expiration date of the notary’s commission.
A notary seal is a tool utilised by a notary public to create an impression on a notarized document. It can take the form of either an embossed seal or a rubber-stamp seal. An embossed seal is pressed onto a document, creating a raised impression above the surface. This type of seal is mandatory in certain states and for certain federally notarized documents. It serves as a clear identifier of the original document because the seal is difficult to reproduce. In contrast, a rubber-stamp seal is an official seal of a notary public that is ink-stamped onto documents and can be easily reproduced through photography. It typically includes the notary’s name, the state seal, the words “Notary Public,” the county where the notary’s bond is filed, and the expiration date of the notary’s commission. If a document bears a rubber-stamp seal, it indicates that the notary public used a stamp to imprint the seal onto the paper, leaving an inked impression that can be easily copied.
A notary seal is a stamp or embossing tool used by a notary public to authenticate and certify documents.
In most states, notaries are required to use a seal to authenticate their notarizations. However, the specific requirements for notary seals can vary by state.
A notary seal typically includes the notary’s name, commission expiration date, and the state in which they are commissioned.
Notary seals should only be used on documents that the notary has properly notarized. Using a notary seal on an unauthorized document can result in legal consequences.
You can verify the validity of a notary seal by checking the notary’s commission information with the state’s notary public division.
Notary seals are only valid within the state in which the notary is commissioned. If a document needs to be notarized in a different state, it must be notarized by a notary in that state.
If you suspect that a notary seal has been used fraudulently, you should report the incident to the appropriate state notary public division.
Many states allow notaries to use electronic seals on electronic documents, as long as they comply with the state’s electronic notarization laws.
Notary seals should only be used on original documents, not photocopies. However, some states allow notaries to certify copies of certain documents using a separate certification stamp.
The duration of a notary seal’s validity depends on the notary’s commission expiration date, which is typically 4-7 years from the date of commission. After the commission expires, the notary must obtain a new seal.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 16th April 2024.
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