Free MA Notary Legal Requirements Questions and Answers
What is required for a notary public to perform a notarial act in Massachusetts?
To perform notarial acts, a notary public must hold a valid commission issued by the Massachusetts Secretary of State. This commission is essential for legally performing notarial duties.
What is the maximum fee a Massachusetts notary public can charge for an acknowledgment?
Massachusetts law allows notaries public to charge a maximum fee of $5 per notarial act, including acknowledgments. This fee is set by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 262, Section 41.
Which of the following is NOT a valid form of identification for a Massachusetts notary to use when verifying a signer's identity?
An employee ID from a local company is not a valid form of identification for notarization purposes. Acceptable forms of ID include a U.S. Passport, state-issued driver’s license, and military ID, as these are generally recognized as reliable proofs of identity.
What must a Massachusetts notary do if they change their address or name?
If a Massachusetts notary changes their address or name, they must notify the Secretary of State in writing. This ensures that their records remain current and accurate.
What is the required action if a notary public’s seal becomes damaged or lost?
If a notary’s seal is damaged or lost, the notary must notify the Secretary of State and obtain a replacement seal. Continuing to perform notarial acts with a damaged or lost seal could compromise the validity of the notarizations.