What can I do with old notary stamps?

Asked by: Martin Trantow  |  Last update: January 30, 2026
Score: 4.5/5 (64 votes)

You cannot use old notary stamps for new acts; they must be securely destroyed to prevent fraud by removing the rubber die and cutting or defacing it, then disposing of the pieces separately, or by disabling embosser plates, as they contain your official information which could be misused. The primary action is complete, irreversible destruction, not reuse or repurposing.

Can I use an old notary stamp?

You should continue to use the old stamp as long as your current commission term is still in force. Once that commission expires and the new commission is effective, you can use your new stamp. Confronted with a tricky notarization?

What can you do with a notary stamp?

Equip yourself with professional notary stamps and embossers designed to support accurate, compliant notarization. These essential tools clearly mark your official notary authority and are commonly used for legal documents, real estate transactions, powers of attorney, affidavits, and other notarized records.

What happens when a notary stamp expires?

In most states, a notary commission lasts between four and ten years before it expires. Once a commission expires, the notary must renew their certification and obtain a new stamp to continue performing notarial acts. Here are the standard commission lengths in some states: California – 4 years.

How to get rid of an old notary stamp?

In California, Notaries must destroy or deface their seals upon resignation, termination or revocation of their commissions. However, California Notaries who are convicted of certain offenses and felonies are required to surrender their seals to the court.

How To Fix A Bad Notary Seal Impression

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How much does a $50,000 notary bond cost?

$50,000 surety bonds typically cost 0.5–10% of the bond amount, or $250–$5,000. Highly qualified applicants with strong credit might pay just $250 to $500, while an individual with poor credit will receive a higher rate.

Can you cash in old stamps?

Use Royal Mail's Stamp Swap Out Scheme: you can exchange non-barcoded stamps for barcoded ones. Royal Mail opened this scheme on 31 March 2022. The Stamp Swap Out Scheme will remain open after 31 January 2023 so you can continue to swap out any old non-barcoded stamps.

Can old used stamps be worth money?

Some old and used stamps can be very valuable and ordinary-looking items can be expensive if they wear a so-called secret mark.

Where is the best place to sell old stamps?

Sotheby's is your best resource for selling rare stamps at auction. Since our first postage stamps auction was held in 1872, Sotheby's has represented the most significant and famous philatelists, including Sir Maxwell Joseph, Ryohei Ishikawa, Robert Gibbs, Sir Gawaine Baillie and Lady Mairi Bury.

What happens if someone uses your notary stamp?

A notary whose stamp is used without authorization could face legal repercussions. If a fraudulently notarized document leads to financial loss or legal issues for any party involved, the notary could be held liable for negligence in securing their notary stamp or notary seal.

What do I do with my old notary journal?

California requires its Notaries to keep all completed journals as long as they maintain a current Notary commission. California Notaries whose commissions end without being renewed must turn in their journals within 30 days to the county clerk's office where their oath of office is on file.

How do I dismantle a notary stamp?

A notary stamp can be easily destroyed by prying off the rubber face and cutting it up with scissors. Likewise, an embossing seal can also be destroyed by prying off the metal face of the seal and smashing it with a hammer.

What to do with an inherited stamp collection?

Once you have determined an idea of the value, you have several options.

  1. Keep It. First, you could keep the collection for yourself.
  2. Pass it on to a Family Member. ...
  3. Donate It. ...
  4. Sell It.

Do stamp collectors want used stamps?

used – Typically, people will collect either mint or used stamps. Mint stamps have never been used and often cost more. Used stamps may be easier to collect and may also be collected for the cancellations on them.

Can you make money off old stamps?

In truth, the majority of stamps are actually worth very little because they are issued in huge quantities. However, if you are lucky enough to own a collection of rare stamps which are in good condition it might be a very valuable asset.

What charity takes used stamps?

Donate your used stamps and printer cartridges to MS Society | MS Society UK.

How much is a $25,000 notary bond?

Typically a $5,000 notary bond costs $35-100, while a $10,000 notary bond costs around $60-150, depending on the state. Similarly, a $15,000 notary bond usually costs $60-150, and a $25,000 notary bond costs between $80 and $180.