IN Notary Notary Seal and Certificate Requirements

Question 1

What information must appear on an Indiana notary's official seal?

Accepted Answer

The notary's name, the words 'Notary Public', 'State of Indiana', and the commission expiration date

Answer

Only the notary's name and commission number

Answer

The notary's name, address, and county of commissioning

Answer

The notary's name and the Indiana state seal

Question 2

An Indiana notary uses an embossing seal (raised impression) on a document. Is this acceptable under Indiana law?

Accepted Answer

Yes, an embossing seal may be used, but if used alone it should be accompanied by ink to ensure legibility on copies

Answer

No, Indiana requires only ink-based stamps — embossing seals are not permitted

Answer

Yes, embossing seals are the only type permitted in Indiana

Answer

No, only electronic seals are now required by Indiana law

Question 3

What must an Indiana notary do with their seal if their commission is revoked or expires without renewal?

Accepted Answer

Destroy or disable the seal to prevent unauthorized use

Answer

Keep the seal as a personal keepsake

Answer

Surrender the seal to the Indiana Secretary of State

Answer

Transfer the seal to another commissioned notary

Question 4

If an Indiana notary's seal is lost or stolen, what must they do?

Accepted Answer

Immediately obtain a replacement seal and notify the Secretary of State about the loss

Answer

Continue using a temporary handwritten signature until a replacement is obtained

Answer

Stop performing all notarial acts until a new commission is issued

Answer

File a report with the county recorder's office only

Question 5

May an Indiana notary use their seal for personal or decorative purposes unrelated to their official duties?

Accepted Answer

No, the official seal must only be used for legitimate notarial acts

Answer

Yes, since the notary owns the seal, they may use it however they wish

Answer

Yes, but only for professional promotional materials

Answer

No, unless they obtain written permission from the Secretary of State

Question 6

What should appear on an Indiana notary's certificate in addition to the seal?

Accepted Answer

The notary's signature, printed name, the words 'Notary Public', state and county, the date, and commission expiration date

Answer

Only the notary's signature — the seal contains all other required information

Answer

Only the notary's printed name and the commission number

Answer

The notary's full legal name, address, phone number, and email address