What is the best way to ensure that a loose certificate won’t be fraudulently removed and attached to another document?
Because there is no absolute protection against fraudulent removal, it’s always preferable to fill out Notary certificate language that is preprinted or typed right on a document rather than to staple a separate or “loose” certificate to it.
However, there are precautions Notary can take to make removal of a loose certificate more difficult.
1) Emboss the certificate and document together and label “Attached documents bears embossment” on the certificate
2) Write a brief description of the document on the certificate, perhaps in the margin, so it is easily identifiable
Notaries should consult state laws regarding loose certificates before using them.
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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