If I receive a document that is already signed and notarized by another Notary, but the other Notary’s stamp impression is illegible, is it OK for me to write out their commission information next to the stamp impression? — E.M., New York
Absolutely not. No one other than the original Notary who performed the act should correct any part of a notarization. If the seal is illegible, the document may be returned to the original Notary so they may apply a second, legible impression.
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 consultants 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.