What to Do When the Notary Public Doesn't Stamp Your Document?
If you have gone through the process of getting your documents notarized, you probably know how important it is to have the stamp or seal of the notary public on your paperwork. It serves as proof that the document has been verified under oath and is legally binding. Unfortunately, there may be instances when the notary public forgets or fails to stamp your document. Below are some steps you can take to remedy the situation.
Step 1: Contact the Notary Public
The first step you should take when you notice that the notary public didn't stamp your document is to contact them. Sometimes, it is just an honest mistake that can easily be corrected. Politely explain the situation and ask them to stamp the document. The notary may ask you to come back to their office or they may be willing to stamp it at a later time. If they refuse or are unresponsive, you may have to take other measures.
Step 2: Contact the Notary's Supervisor
If the notary public is unresponsive or if they refuse to stamp your document, you should contact their supervisor. All notaries public have a supervisor or an agency that oversees their work. You can find out who the notary's supervisor is by checking the state's notary public registry. Explain the situation and ask for assistance in getting the document stamped. The supervisor may offer you a solution or may contact the notary directly to resolve the issue.
Step 3: Get an Affidavit of Correction
If you have exhausted all other options and still can't get the notary public to stamp your document, you may have to get an affidavit of correction. An affidavit of correction is a legal document that explains the mistake and how it was corrected. You can get an affidavit of correction from a lawyer or a notary public, but it depends on the state where you reside. The affidavit of correction will be attached to your original document, and it will serve as proof that the mistake has been corrected.
In conclusion, getting your documents notarized is an essential part of many legal processes, and having the stamp or seal of the notary public is crucial. However, if you find yourself in a situation where the notary public didn't stamp your document, don't panic. Contact the notary, their supervisor, or get an affidavit of correction to fix the mistake and ensure that your document is legally binding.
