What should you do if the original notary stamp is found after obtaining a replacement?

When a notary finds the original notary stamp after obtaining a replacement, the correct action is to destroy the original notary stamp. This is vital to ensure that there is no possibility of confusion or misuse of the old stamp alongside the new one. Once a replacement stamp has been issued, the old stamp is rendered invalid, and keeping it poses a risk of unauthorized use, which could compromise the integrity of notarizations performed.

Destroying the original stamp allows the notary to maintain the integrity of their records and ensures compliance with notary laws. Notaries are responsible for safeguarding their tools of the trade, and part of this responsibility involves taking proper steps once the original stamp is no longer in service.

Maintaining both stamps or reporting to authorities could create confusion or lead to potential issues with authority oversight. Likewise, sending it to the Secretary of State is generally not a standard procedure for stamps that are no longer in use. Thus, destroying the original is the best course of action for maintaining security and compliance in notarial practice.