Notary Frequently Asked Questions

These questions and answers are for your general information only. They are not intended to cover all the material available in a Notarial Handbook.

Q. Is my notary commission, issued in Franklin County, good only in Franklin County?
A. As of 1977 your commission became statewide; however, you are required to apply for and renew your commission in your resident county.

Q. When notarizing a document, must an individual personally appear before me in order for me to notarize it?
A. Yes, they must personally appear and show proper identification. A court has held that the failure of a notary public to obtain some evidence of identification independent of a stranger's representation is negligence as a matter of law.

Q. What is the most money I can charge as a notary for a single signature I notarize?
A. A notary may charge for notarization of a signature a fee equal to that allowed by law to clerks of the courts of common pleas for like service, currently $1 for administering each oath. For affidavits, a notary may charge $1.50, effective October 12, 1994, and $2.00 for each acknowledgement. These fees, however, are not cumulative.

Q. If someone brings me a document to be notarized and it has already been signed, can I notarize it?
A. It depends upon what type of document it is. Please consult a Notarial Handbook under "Affidavits" and "Acknowledgements" for further information.

Q. Can I notarize a document when the person refuses to take the oath or "swear to God" because of religious reasons?
A. Yes, you may still notarize the document but you must ask the person to "affirm" that the facts stated are true to the best of his or her knowledge.

Q. Is it necessary that a notary always administer the oath or affirmation before notarizing a document?
A. It depends upon what type of document it is. Please consult a Notarial Handbook under "Affidavits and "Acknowledgements" for further information.

Q. How do I go about changing the name on my commission if I have married since I received my commission?
A. Please visit the Secretary of State's website for complete information.

Q: What kind of insurance do I need to protect myself from liability?
A: Errors & Ommissions insurance is a good idea. Click here for more information.