Notary Seal Stamps and Seal Embossers: What You Need to Know

The official notary seal stamp (also called a seal embosser) is the most regularly-used for a notary. The notary seal refers to the embossed impression of the notary public stamp. It authenticates the signature of the notary and it makes the action of the notary to be official. The term “notary seal” can also mean the embosser or the stamp. The imprint of the seal bears information that identifies the notary in the records of the notary public commission.

Distinguishing a Stamp From an Embosser

The term ‘notary seal’ can be used to denote either an embosser or a stamp. In some states, the word ‘seal’ refers to a stamp while in other states it means an embosser.

 notary seal stamp is an inked rubber stamp that is used to imprint information that is required by the state. This information is usually comprised of the name of the notary public, the state he or she was commissioned in and the date of expiry of the commission. Notary stamps normally have a rectangular shape, though some states use a round-shaped stamp. Many states require that inked rubber stamps be on the notaries’ mail since they can be reproduced photographically. Every state has its own particular requirement regarding the stamps used by the notaries in its boundaries.

A notary embosser is a metallic clamping appliance that creates a raised imprint of information relating to the notary public commission. This information is normally the state and name of the commission. The embosser has a round shape. Before the inked rubber stamp was adopted by most states, a notary embosser was commonly used to document a notarization. In some states, it is still a requirement to use a raised embossed seal. But, generally, embossers are used together with the ink rubber stamps.

How to Obtain a Notary Seal

Every state has set out its own distinct requirements that must be met before one can get a notary seal. Mostly, you have to be a commissioned notary public before you can obtain your seal.

Points to Note When Using and Maintaining a Notary Seal

-Every state has its own particular set of regulations and rules that must be adhered to during a notarization process. You are permitted to use your notary seal until the date when your commission expires. On expiration, you have to dispose of your notary seal in the proper manner.

-Ensure you place your document on a solid flat surface before stamping. If you stamp documents that are placed incorrectly on, say, files, magazines or heaps of paper, this may result in an image that is unacceptable. This may mean that your document is rejected later. The printing area of your stamp should be placed flatly on the document.

-You should hold your stamp using your thumb and fingers. Avoid pressing it downwards with your palm, and make sure you do not bring it down at an angle.

-The image produced should clearly portray all the numbers and letters, the border of the stamp and the state seal (if it is included).

-The stamp is not recommended for documents written on mylar or onion skin.

-Owing to its heat sensitive nature, your stamp must be stored at room temperature.

-To get rid of dirt and dust on your stamp, put a strip of clear tape on the lettered surface of your stamp and then remove it.

-When you have to re-ink your notary stamp, use oil-based ink. Other types of ink can damage your stamp and cause bleeding when you make your impression.

Using Notary Seal Embossers

-Embossers are made in such a way as to ensure quick and smooth operation, using one hand. When not in use, the seals must be kept in a locked area. This guarantees a sharp and tidy impression. Each state has specific guidelines relating to how the embosser is designed.

-Embossers are highly sensitive to heat. They should be kept away from extreme or direct heat to prevent the seal from malfunctioning.

Coast2Coast Signings is a global signing service dedicated to providing the most convenient, efficient and professional signing services. Our goal is to provide our clients’ with excellent customer service, a knowledgeable staff, and the ability to find experienced notaries wherever and whenever they are needed. Our team is on staff 24/7 to fulfill any of your signing needs. With a combined 50 years of experience, our mission is to help fulfill our clients’ needs with the utmost respect and adaptability. Coast 2 Coast is the only signing company proficient in completing signings on a global scale, on any coast and in any country.