What type of note must be included in your notary journal regarding what happens after your death or incompetency?

Including a specific note in your notary journal about what should happen to it after your death or incompetency is crucial for ensuring compliance with Illinois law and protecting the integrity of the records. The correct choice indicates that the journal should be delivered to the secretary of state. This is the appropriate action because the secretary of state’s office is responsible for maintaining public records, including notarial acts.

Transferring the journal to the secretary of state ensures that the records are preserved and made accessible in accordance with state regulations. This system helps maintain public trust and accountability in the notarial process. It also allows for the proper management of the records, which is essential in the event that questions or disputes arise regarding previously notarized documents.

Other suggested actions, such as destroying the journal, delivering it to a notary supply vendor, or transferring it to a family member, do not align with the legal requirements and could potentially lead to the loss of important public records or compromise the integrity of the notarization process. Therefore, having a plan for transferring the journal to the secretary of state is the best practice.