WI Notary Notary Journal and Record Keeping 3

Question 1

What is the purpose of a Wisconsin notary keeping a detailed journal?

Accepted Answer

To provide evidence of proper procedures if a notarization is ever challenged

Answer

To report revenue to the IRS

Answer

To satisfy a requirement to file with the county

Answer

To satisfy federal banking regulations

Question 2

Should a Wisconsin notary record the method of identification used in their journal?

Accepted Answer

Yes, noting the type and details of ID presented is best practice

Answer

No, ID information is too sensitive to record

Answer

Only for real estate documents

Answer

Only if the signer is not personally known

Question 3

If a Wisconsin notary's journal is lost or stolen, what should they do?

Accepted Answer

Report the loss to the Department of Financial Institutions and consider notifying law enforcement

Answer

Do nothing and start a new journal

Answer

Immediately resign their commission

Answer

Contact only their employer

Question 4

Can a Wisconsin notary use electronic software to maintain their notary journal?

Accepted Answer

Yes, electronic journals are permissible especially for electronic notarizations

Answer

No, only handwritten paper journals are allowed

Answer

Only if approved by the county clerk

Answer

Only for notaries commissioned after 2020

Question 5

Should a Wisconsin notary record the address of the signer in their journal?

Accepted Answer

Yes, recording the address helps confirm the signer's identity and location

Answer

No, addresses are never recorded

Answer

Only for real estate transactions

Answer

Only if the signer provides a business address

Question 6

How should a Wisconsin notary correct an error in their paper journal?

Accepted Answer

Draw a single line through the error, write the correction, and initial it

Answer

Use correction fluid (white-out) to cover the mistake

Answer

Tear out the page and start a new entry

Answer

Leave the error uncorrected