When must a Notary keep a record of a notarization performed?

A notary must maintain a record of every notarization performed because it is a fundamental aspect of their duties and responsibilities. Keeping a comprehensive log helps ensure transparency and accountability within the notarial process. This record serves as an official account that can be referenced if there is ever a dispute or legal inquiry regarding the notarized documents.

Since notaries have an obligation to uphold the integrity of their work, documenting each notarization protects not only the notary but also the parties involved in the transaction. It allows for greater clarity and may be beneficial during audits, legal proceedings, or when verifying the authenticity of signed documents.

While specific documents may have inherent legal requirements for notarization, the notary's duty to record every action taken reinforces the importance of maintaining accurate and complete records in all situations. Therefore, the requirement to document every notarization is most comprehensive and ensures compliance with best practices within the field.