How do I correct a notary stamp?
Asked by: Margie O'Hara | Last update: February 12, 2026Score: 4.7/5 (10 votes)
To correct a notary stamp error, you generally cross out the flawed impression with a single line, initial and date the correction, then apply a new, clear stamp nearby, or attach a separate, properly stamped certificate if space is limited; never use correction fluid/tape or write over the stamp, as this invalidates the notarization and appears as tampering. Always check your specific state laws for precise procedures.
How to correct a notary stamp?
If you have made an error in one of your notarial certificates, follow your state's requirements for making corrections. In most cases, you just need to strike through the mistake, write in the correction, and initial/date.
How to correct a mistake on a notarized document?
Yes, you may make the correction if you have the document with the error. Draw a single line through the error, write in the name of the correct county and initial and date the correction. Never use correction fluid or tape when making a correction.
What happens if a notary makes a mistake?
A mistake can trigger an immediate rejection and result in penalties and additional fees. In most severe cases, the notary public becomes highly vulnerable to civil litigation. Mostly, notaries are aware that there are many moving pieces in a notarization process.
Can a notary stamp twice?
Notaries who have very active notary careers and whose stamps are constantly in use will always have an extra stamp when the ink on the first one runs dry. Legal Disclaimer: The American Association of Notaries is committed to providing accurate and up-to-date information.
How To Fix A Bad Notary Seal Impression
What is the most common mistake made by a notary?
The most common and serious mistake a notary makes is failing to ensure the signer personally appears before them, which is a legal violation and can lead to fraud and major penalties, but other frequent errors involve incomplete or incorrect notarial certificates, such as missing dates, improper seal placement, illegible stamps, mismatched names, or attaching the wrong certificate type, all of which can invalidate the document.
Can you edit a document after it has been notarized?
The signer must make the correction and possibly re-sign. The notarization must be re-done. The document may be invalid, and a new notarization is required. Always refer to your state's notary laws before making any corrections.
Is an upside down notary stamp valid?
Documents containing upside down, blurred, or partial Notary seal or stamp impressions are likely to get rejected.
What is the proper method for correcting a mistake on an official document?
If you find errors in a legal document or transcript, you should compile a clear list of these errors and follow the correct procedure for submitting an errata list. It may be beneficial to utilize templates available from US Legal Forms to ensure compliance with legal standards.
How to properly destroy a notary stamp?
Steps to Safely Destroy Notary Materials
- Remove the rubber from the bottom or base of your stamp, being careful to not get ink on your hands.
- Cut the rubber polymer into pieces with scissors to ensure it is properly destroyed.
- Throw the pieces of rubber into the trash.
How to make a correction on a legal document?
If you have made an error on an official court or government document, you can use an Affidavit of Correction to address it. Typically, this Affidavit will outline what the document is, how the error appears on the document, and what the correct information is.
Can you backdate a notary stamp?
If you are asked to correct a document, be sure to apply corrections only to existing documents. Please note that some states do not authorize you to correct a notarized document - California specifically states “There are no provisions in the law that allow for the correction of a completed notarial act.
Are notary stamps verified?
A legitimate notarized document must include a notary's official seal and signature. The seal can be an embossed or inked stamp containing the notary's name, commission number, and expiration date. If the seal appears smudged, unclear, or missing, it may indicate a fraudulent document.
What is the proper way to fix a notary stamp when notarizing a document?
Affixing a second Notary seal
If your Notary seal should be smudged, is affixed too lightly, or comes out unevenly inked, affix a second seal near, but not over, the first one. Make sure it is readable and able to be photocopied. In doing so, do not cover or obscure any other text or images on the document.
How to correct a notary mistake?
At best and depending on a notary's state law and rules, they can cross-through the certificate containing the error or omission, perform a new notarization, and complete a new, correct notarial certificate.
How do I edit an already signed document?
Methods to edit a signed PDF either digitally “print” the PDF as an image and then re-convert it back to a PDF (creating an identical, unsigned PDF in the process). Alternatively, if you are the signer, you can usually “unsign” or clear the signature before making the necessary edits.
Can you change a document after it is notarized?
A notary public can use their judgement to correct information contained within a notarial certificate. However, the specifics of the document cannot be altered after the notarization occurs.
Do notaries get sued a lot?
It's not unusual for a Notary to be named in a lawsuit simply because plaintiffs are obligated to cast a wide net. In other words, the civil process is “Sue first, ask questions later.” And even with the best outcome, being sued is incredibly disruptive.
What invalidates a notarized document?
A notarized document can be invalidated by fundamental flaws like improper identification, lack of signer presence, blank spaces, missing signatures, or an expired notary commission, as well as fraudulent acts, unauthorized alterations, backdating, or the notary acting with a conflict of interest, all undermining the document's authenticity and the integrity of the notarization process.
Can they tell if you reuse a stamp?
Mute cancellation (killer)
After use, many stamps are marked with a cancellation by the postal system, which defaces the stamp and prevents its reuse. The cancellation usually includes a killer placed on the stamp that has black bars, cork impressions or other obstructive shapes to deface the stamp.
How long is a notary stamp valid?
Here are the standard commission lengths in some states: California – 4 years.