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How do I handle documents with a future date printed on them?

Sometimes the date above the seller's name on a loan document will be in the future. The realtor always tells me I do not need to change any dates except my notary venue dates. Is that correct?D.M., Texas

It is difficult to directly answer your question because all documents are different, and dates can appear in different places. In general, if the post-date appears in the text of the notarial certificate, you may not execute that notarial certificate because it does not reflect the true date the document was notarized. If, however, the post-date appears in the main text of the document, it could be an “effective date” — that is a future date when the document takes effect — and it may be possible for you to notarize the document as the notarial certificate contains the actual date that you performed the notarization.

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

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