What is required to be affixed near your signature each time you notarize a document?

The requirement to affix a notary official seal near your signature each time you notarize a document is crucial because it serves as a form of authenticating the notarization process. The notary seal provides a visual confirmation that the notary is officially authorized to perform the duty of witnessing signatures and administering oaths. This seal typically includes the notary's name, title, and often the state where the notary is commissioned, thereby validating the authenticity of the document.

Without the notary official seal, the notarization may lack credibility, which could lead to challenges regarding the document's validity. This seal is a legal requirement in many states, including Illinois, and is foundational to the role of a notary public. The seal, alongside the notary's signature, creates a reliable and trustworthy document that is essential in various legal processes.

The other options provided do not hold the same significance as the notary official seal in the context of notarization. A notary public signature, while essential, only serves as an acknowledgment of the act; it does not confer the official authority that the seal does. Similarly, a state identification number or a government-issued ID does not function in the same capacity during the notarization process, as they are not required