Updated 12-20-19. Kentucky’s new Notary law taking effect January 1, 2020 requires additional information to be added to a Notary’s official stamp. Read more about the new stamp requirements below:
Are all Kentucky Notaries required to use an official stamp?
No, use of an official stamp is optional for Kentucky Notaries.
What if I want to use an official stamp?
You may do so. However, if you use an official stamp, it must contain all the following information starting January 1:
1. The Notary’s name and title
2. The Notary’s jurisdiction
3. The Notary’s commission number
4. The Notary’s commission expiration date
I currently have a stamp, but it doesn’t include my commission number or expiration date. Can I still use this stamp after Dec. 31?
No. If your current stamp does not include all information required under the new law, you will need to replace it by January 1 with a new stamp that includes all mandatory information.
What do I need to know if I do not use an official stamp?
KRS 423.360(2) says that a notarial certificate completed by a Notary must include the Notary’s commission number and expiration date. So if a Kentucky Notary does not use an official stamp, you will need to write your commission number and commission expiration date on any certificate wording you complete for a notarization.
While use of an official stamp is optional, Kentucky Notaries may find using a stamp more convenient since the stamp must already include the commission number and expiration date.
Where can I purchase a new stamp?
You can purchase Kentucky Notary Stamps compliant with the new law from the NNA.
- If you ordered a Kentucky Notary Seal from the NNA after December 4, 2019, you will receive a new-law compliant seal.
- If you ordered a Kentucky Notary Seal from the NNA between October 1 and December 4, 2019, the NNA will send you a replacement compliant seal, free of charge, automatically.
- If you ordered a Kentucky Notary Seal from the NNA prior to October 1, 2019 you will need to place an order for a new seal.