Introduction: Errors can happen to even the most experienced notary public, and it’s crucial to know how to correct them promptly and in compliance with state laws. In this blog post, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to address notary errors, along with some insights and best practices to handle these situations with confidence.
- Error at the Signing Table:
If you discover an error during the signing process, such as a mistake on a notarial certificate, follow your state’s guidelines for making corrections. In many cases, you can simply strike through the error, write in the correction, and initial and date the change.
For errors made by the signer outside the notarial certificate, like an incorrect date or a misplaced signature, you can often resolve it by using a fresh document. Have the signer correctly sign and date the new copy. Always ensure that you have extra copies on hand for such situations.
- Error Noticed Before Document Shipment:
If you realize the error before shipping the document package but have left the signing, act swiftly:
- Contact the signers immediately to see if they are available to meet again on the same day for correction.
- If signers are unavailable, get in touch with the signing service or title company that hired you. They will guide you on how to proceed. Some may request you to send the rest of the package back, make the correction promptly, and then ship or scan the corrected document(s). Others may ask you to hold onto the package until the correction is made.
- Error Discovered After Document Shipment:
If you’ve already shipped the document package and realize an error, you’ll likely be contacted by the signing service or title company. Follow these steps:
- Confirm the error by requesting a photocopy of the document in question.
- Review your state’s notarial laws to determine if corrections to notarial certificates are allowed after the fact. Some states permit it, while others do not.
- If correction is necessary, meet with the signer(s) again, ensuring compliance with state laws.
It’s important to note that some signing service and title company employees may not be notaries and may not fully understand notarial laws. If they request corrections that don’t align with your state’s laws, it’s crucial to explain that you can only make corrections in accordance with your state’s notarial laws. Do not compromise on this point; your duty as a notary public is to always adhere to your state’s notarial laws.
Conclusion: Mistakes are a part of any profession, including notary services. Being prepared to address errors in a professional and lawful manner is essential. Follow these steps and be proactive in communicating with all parties involved to ensure a smooth and compliant resolution to notary errors. Remember, your commitment to upholding notarial laws is your highest priority.