Free MA Notary Prohibited Actions Questions and Answers

Question 1

Which of the following actions is prohibited for a Massachusetts notary public?

Accepted Answer

Notarizing a document where the notary has a financial interest

Answer

Notarizing a document where the notary is a witness to the signature

Answer

Notarizing documents for family members

Answer

Notarizing documents if the notary has prior knowledge of the signer

Question 2

Can a Massachusetts notary public notarize a document for someone who is not present at the time of notarization?

Accepted Answer

No, the signer must be present at the time of notarization

Answer

Yes, if the notary knows the signer personally

Answer

Yes, if the signer sends the document through mail

Answer

Yes, if the signer provides a written confirmation of their identity

Question 3

What should a Massachusetts notary do if they suspect a document is fraudulent or that the signer is being coerced?

Accepted Answer

Refuse to notarize the document and report the situation to authorities

Answer

Proceed with the notarization to avoid conflict

Answer

Request additional identification to confirm the signer's identity

Answer

Complete the notarization but note the concern in the notary journal

Question 4

Is it permissible for a Massachusetts notary public to use a pre-signed blank notarial certificate?

Accepted Answer

No, pre-signed blank notarial certificates are prohibited

Answer

Yes, if the document is a common form and the signer is known

Answer

Yes, as long as the notary completes the details before the document is executed

Answer

Yes, if the notary’s seal is affixed before the document is executed

Question 5

Can a Massachusetts notary public notarize a document for someone who does not understand the language in which the document is written?

Accepted Answer

No, the signer must understand the language of the document

Answer

Yes, if the notary provides a translation

Answer

Yes, if the notary has a clear understanding of the document's content

Answer

Yes, if a translator is present during the notarization