Do you have what it takes to be a Kentucky Notary? If you're interested in becoming a notary or simply want to learn more about the requirements, read on. Once you've met the requirements, you'll need to purchase a surety bond and obtain the proper notary supplies.
The supplies include Kentucky notary seals, notary journals, and record books. You'll also need to take an oath of office before you can begin your duties as a notary. If you're up for the challenge, becoming a Kentucky notary can be a rewarding experience.
What Is A Notary Public And What Do They Do?
A notary is an individual commissioned by the Secretary of State to take acknowledgments, administer oaths, or affirmations, attest to photocopies of certain documents, and perform other duties specified by law.
What do You Need to be a Notary in Kentucky?
A Kentucky Notary Public is a person who has been appointed by the Kentucky Secretary of State to act as an official witness to the signing of important documents. The most common document that Kentucky notary witnesses are a Power of Attorney. This document appoints another person (called an “agent” or “attorney-in-fact”) to make financial or legal decisions on your behalf.
Other documents that a Kentucky notary may witness include, but are not limited to:
- Acknowledgments
- Oaths or affirmations
- Affidavits
- Depositions
- Protests of negotiable instruments
A notary does not certify the truthfulness of statements made in a document but merely attests that the person signing the document appeared before the Kentucky notary and acknowledged that he or she signed the document.
Requirements For Becoming A Notary Public In Kentucky
To become a notary in the state of Kentucky, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a resident of Kentucky or have a place of employment or practice in the state
- Be able to read and write English
- Not have been convicted of a felony
To become a notary public, you must first apply to the Kentucky Secretary of State’s office. The application must be notarized and accompanied by a filing fee. You will also need to provide proof of your identity and residency in the state. The Secretary of State’s office will then conduct a background check. If you pass the background check and other necessary tests, you will be notified by mail and will need to take an oath of office. You will then be given a notary commission certificate, which you must always keep in your possession while performing notarial acts. As a notary public, it is recommended that you maintain a notary record book (also called a Journal) of all notarial acts performed. The journal must be kept in a secure place and must be available for inspection upon request. You can also purchase a seal, which must be used on all documents you notarize. The seal must contain the words “Notary Public,” Your Name, and Commonwealth of Kentucky. You must use your notary seal on all official documents that you notarize. Documents that are not properly notarized may not be accepted by the person or institution to whom they are presented.
How To Take The Oath Of Office And Become A Kentucky Notary Public?
To become a notary in the state of Kentucky, you must first take an oath of office. This can be done by going to your local county clerk's office and filling out the necessary paperwork.
Once you have taken the oath of office, you will be required to purchase a notary public stamp and seal. You can purchase these items from a variety of sources, such as your local office supply store or online. Once you have your Kentucky notary stamps and seal, you will need to keep them in a safe place. You will also need to keep a notary journal in which you will record all the notarizations that you perform. To renew your notary public commission, you will need to complete a certain number of notarizations each year.
What Are The Benefits Of Becoming A Notary Public In Kentucky?
There are many benefits to becoming a Kentucky notary. As a notary, you will be able to:
- Notarize documents for use in Kentucky
- Verify the identity of signers of documents
- Administer oaths and affirmations
- Take acknowledgments of deeds, powers of attorney, and other documents
- Witness or attest signatures on documents
- Perform other duties as authorized by law
As a Kentucky notary, you will be able to provide an important service to the citizens of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. You will be able to help them with the paperwork associated with many different legal transactions. In addition, you will be able to help prevent fraud by verifying the identity of those who sign documents. If you are interested in becoming a notary, then you should contact your local county clerk's office for more information. They will be able to help you take the oath of office and provide you with the necessary paperwork. Once you have taken the oath of office and purchased your self-inking stamp and seal, you will be ready to start notarizing documents.
How To Order Your Kentucky Notary Supplies
You can order your Kentucky notary supplies from a variety of sources, such as your local office supply store or online. When ordering your supplies, you will need to provide your name, the county where you are commissioned, and the dates of your commission.
You should also purchase a notary journal in which you will record all the notarizations that you perform. To renew your notary public commission, you will need to complete a certain number of notarizations each year.
Ordering Sources
Notary seals and stamps can be ordered from many different sources. However, we recommend that you purchase your supplies from a reputable source such as ESS. We offer a wide variety of Kentucky notary supplies, including self-inking stamps and seals, at competitive prices. So, if you're looking for the best selection and value on Kentucky notary supplies, look no further than ESS!
Does Kentucky Notary Require a Stamp?
A notary is not required to have a stamp. If you choose to use a notary stamp both a pre-inked stamp or a self-inking stamp is the most popular, both allow for re-inking and are good for thousands of impressions.
Do Notaries in Kentucky Have Notary Stamps?
If they get a stamp, it should include the notary public’s name, title, jurisdiction, id number, and commission expiration date. The commission expires language is part of the state requirements so a new stamp is needed every four years. Notaries can choose from pre-inked stamp type, re-inking die plate ink stamp, or wooden handle stamp.
Does Kentucky have a Notary Seal?
The round embosser is permitted but not a required piece of equipment. Notaries who choose to purchase a notary seal often choose the pocket embosser. These require minimal effort to get a good impression and are easily carried in a purse. You may choose to get one with your commission expiration date or without.
Does Kentucky Require a Notary Journal?
A notary journal or notary record book is not required in the Commonwealth of Kentucky but is highly recommended.
Best Practice
It is the best practice to keep all the required information for notarizations in a documented form.
If you are a notary in the state of Kentucky, you will need to purchase notary supplies to perform your duties. You can find all the necessary supplies on our website. We offer a wide selection of notary stamps and seals, as well as other tools notary information, and resources that you may need. Ordering is easy and convenient, so be sure to check us out today!
About ESS
Order your seal in one easy step when you visit ESS online. Most orders ship in one business day. All seals are made in compliance with state requirements. Visit us online to see all of the notary supplies offered for the Kentucky notary.