For how many years must you retain your tangible notary journal after the final notarial act?

Retaining the notary journal for seven years after the final notarial act is crucial because it aligns with Illinois law, which mandates this retention period. This requirement ensures that a notary has accessible records if questions arise regarding their notarial acts, and it supports legal transparency and accountability. The seven-year timeframe allows ample opportunity for any disputes, legal inquiries, or audits following the conclusion of notarial activities. Journals serve as essential evidence of the acts performed and can protect the notary in potential legal challenges. Retaining records beyond this period can create unnecessary storage concerns, while shorter periods might not fulfill legal obligations.