What action should you take with your notary stamp upon receiving a new commission?

Upon receiving a new commission as a notary, the appropriate action to take with your old notary stamp is to destroy it. This is essential for several reasons. A notary stamp is a legal instrument that validates the notarization process, and once you are commissioned with a new term, the old stamp is no longer valid. Keeping it could lead to unauthorized use, which could result in legal issues or liability for acts committed with that outdated stamp.

Destroying the old stamp ensures that it cannot be used or misappropriated, maintaining the integrity of your notarial work and protecting the public. In many jurisdictions, notaries are specifically instructed to dispose of their old stamps properly to prevent any misuse. This practice reinforces the importance of secure notarial operations and compliance with state laws.