What should notaries remember about the use of their stamps?

Notaries must remember that when affixing their stamps, they should not place it over any text on documents. This is important because the stamp serves as a formal certification of the notary's actions and ensures that the details of the document, including signatures and any other necessary information, remain clearly visible and readable. If a notary were to place the stamp over text, it could obscure essential information, leading to confusion or legal disputes regarding the document’s validity. Maintaining clarity in official documentation is a fundamental responsibility of a notary, reinforcing the integrity of the notarization process.

Using the stamp for personal matters, lending it to others, or applying it to any official document without due diligence could compromise both the notary's ethical obligations and the legal standing of the documents being notarized.