Notary stamps are essential for notarizing documents, used by notaries authorized to verify them. These stamps can be physical or digital, and with the shift to online processes, the demand for digital notary stamps has increased.
There are many types of stamps, each serving different functions. Physical stamps for various purposes can be costly. With digital notary stamps, you can create multiple stamps without concerns about loss. Digital notary stamps hold the same validity as physical ones with added convenience.
Notary stamps are official seals and stamps that give documents an official status. Every notary public requires a notary seal and stamp as evidence of their official capacity. These stamps are exclusive to notaries, carrying legal value and issued solely by an authorized notary.
A notary stamp typically appears as a small rectangle or circle with multiple lines of text. The notary stamp contains:
A notary stamp must include the official full name of the notary public. Without it, the seal is invalid.
Each notary public receives a unique commission number upon appointment, distinguishing them, though not all states issue it.
The expiration date shows the commission's validity. After this date, the notary cannot authenticate documents.
This specifies the state or jurisdiction of the notary, as they cannot notarize documents outside their assigned area.
These elements are crucial for creating a valid notary seal, ensuring it is usable for official, legal documents.
There are three primary types: notary stamp, seal, or embosser. Depending on the document and requirements, you can select the appropriate notary stamp type.
A notary stamp is essential, containing critical details. It's suitable for online documents and public notices.
Not all states require an embosser or seal, but it provides a professional look, ideal for certificates needing unique authenticity.
| Notary Stamp | Notary Seal/Embosser |
| Leaves an inked impression, includes the notary's details, easily visible and photocopiable. | Creates a raised seal, often includes minimal details, less suited for copying. |
With online stamp-making, creating a custom notary stamp online is simple. Digital stamps save time, reduce costs, and are reusable. They also support digital documents, ensuring security and authenticity without physical paperwork.
Digital stamps eliminate the need for multiple physical stamps, making notarization efficient and affordable.
Notarizing digital documents ensures authenticity, protecting them against tampering for secure transactions.
Digital notary stamps streamline the process, quickly verifying documents with a few clicks.
When creating custom notary stamps, ensure accuracy and adherence to regulations. For more details, visit StampJam’s stamp templates for customizable options, including popular templates like:
By now, you should have a clear understanding of notary stamps and seals and their importance. Whether you are a public notary or work with one, creating a custom notary stamp with Stamp Jam is quick and easy, with plenty of options to choose from. Knowing the essential components of a notary stamp will help you avoid mistakes, and understanding which documents require notarization ensures compliance with legal standards. Armed with this knowledge, you’re ready to create your own custom notary stamp in just minutes.
Happy Stamping!
Q: What is the difference between a notary stamp and a notary seal?
The terms “notary stamp” and “notary seal” are often used interchangeably. However, technically, a notary stamp refers to an inked stamping device, while a seal could refer to either a stamp, a wax seal, or an embossed seal.
Q: What if the information on my notary stamp changes?
If any essential information changes, such as your name or commission details, you will need to obtain a new notary stamp from Stamp Jam with the updated information.
Q: What do I do with my notary stamp if I am no longer a notary?
If you are no longer a notary, you should destroy your notary stamp to prevent misuse. Cutting up the rubber part of the stamp is a common method to ensure it cannot be used again.
Q: Which documents require a notary stamp?
Notary stamps and seals are mandatory for legal and public documents, such as contracts, agreements, wills, trusts, property deeds, powers of attorney, affidavits, and medical documents.
For a quick, hassle-free way to sign & stamp documents, use our free stamper application (available with the purchase of a stamp).
