How long must an electronic notary retain their electronic journal after the last notarial act?

The requirement for an electronic notary to retain their electronic journal after the last notarial act is typically set at a specific duration to ensure accountability and accessibility for any legal inquiries or audits. In Illinois, notaries are mandated to maintain their electronic journals for a period of seven years following the completion of the last notarial act. This time frame provides ample opportunity for any necessary review of the notarial acts performed and secures the integrity of the documentation.

Maintaining the electronic journal for this duration serves as an essential practice in safeguarding the notary's work, as well as protecting the interests of the parties involved in the notarization. After this period, the notary can securely dispose of the journal, but not before the seven-year mark has passed, ensuring compliance with state regulations.