Notary Bulletin

Hotline Tip: What Should I Do If My Seal Isn't Completely Visible?

When I applied my rubber stamp seal, I didn’t apply enough pressure and some of the wording was omitted. My name, commission expiration date, and commission number are clearly visible. Do I need to stamp the document again or not? - L.K., Lake Worth, Florida

An illegible or improperly placed seal may result in rejection of the document by a recorder, so you want to make sure all the information is clearly visible, with no omissions. The seal impression should be placed near the signature on the notarial certificate. It must be easily readable and should not cover signatures or words on the document. If there is no room for a new seal impression, simply void out the notarial certificate and attach a loose certificate instead.

For more information on Notary seals and proper seal application, please review the NNA’s Notary Seal Stamp video.

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 (888) 876-0827, Monday through Friday, 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. PST; Saturday, 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST

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Confronted with a tricky notarization? Unsure how to proceed? NNA members have unlimited access to our expertly trained Hotline counselors to help you with all of your notarial questions.

(888) 876-0827

Monday through Friday:
5 a.m. to 7 p.m. PST

Saturdays: 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST

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