What is one of the critical responsibilities of an Illinois notary?

Accurately documenting every notarization performed is a fundamental responsibility of an Illinois notary. This requirement ensures that the notary maintains a clear, verifiable record of the notarial acts they perform. Proper documentation includes noting details such as the date of the notarization, the type of document being notarized, and the identities of the signers. This record serves as a crucial reference in instances where the notarial act may be questioned or when proof of the act is required in legal or administrative proceedings.

In contrast, options that suggest charging higher fees or memorizing clients' identities misrepresent professional expectations, as notary fees are typically regulated to prevent overcharging, and memorization is not a recognized practice for verifying identity. Maintaining confidentiality is vital for a notary, but it does not equate to a lack of record-keeping. Rather, a notary’s duty involves keeping thorough and accurate records while also safeguarding the privacy of the individuals involved.