What should be used to affix the notary's official seal?

The correct answer is permanent black ink. In Illinois, it is a requirement that the notary's official seal be affixed using a permanent medium that ensures the seal is clear and legible. Black ink is specifically mandated because it maintains a standard that is easily readable and presents a professional appearance.

The use of other colors like blue or any non-permanent ink can lead to issues with legibility or acceptance of documents, as they may not meet legal standards or could be considered less formal. A digital stamp is not appropriate for all situations, as many legal documents still require a physical seal to validate the notary's actions. Therefore, using permanent black ink allows notaries to comply with Illinois law and ensures the integrity of notarized documents.