I have recently married and changed my name. I need a new Notary stamp to reflect it but how do I do this? — S.C., Arlington, TX
In order to obtain a Notary stamp in your new name you must change your name on your commission by filing a name change form (Form 2305) that you can download from the Secretary of State’s website. Technically, you aren’t required to change the name on your current commission after you marry as long as you continue to use the name on your current commission and Notary seal for all official acts until your commission expires.
You may change the name on your commission by submitting the following to the Secretary of State:
• A completed Form 2305,
• Your original Notary commission,
• A rider or endorsement to your Notary bond from the bond agency or surety, and
• A $20 filing fee.
All four of these items must be sent at the same time. Instructions are provided on Form 2305.
Hotline answers are based on the laws in the state where the question originated and may not reflect the laws of other states. If in doubt, always refer to your own state statutes. – The Editors
Confronted with a tricky notarization? Unsure how to proceed? NNA members have unlimited access to our expertly trained NNA Hotline counselors to help you with all of your notarial questions. Call 1-888-876-0827, Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. PST; Saturday, 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST. After hours you can send a message to our Notary experts at Hotline@NationalNotary.org, and you will receive a response the next business day.