Notary FAQ

Q: Who can post a surety bond?
A: A Fayette County property owner may sign for a notary's bond. The notary's name cannot be on the deed. Another option is for an insurance company to sign for the notary's bond.

Q: Can my spouse sign as surety for me?
A: Only if he or she owns Fayette County property separately from you. The deed cannot have the notary's name as owner. This is not advised.

Q: Do the notary and surety need to come together?
A: No. However, if the surety comes in after the notary, the notary cannot start notarizing documents until after the surety has posted the bond.

Q: Can I sign for my own notary bond?
A: No. The notary cannot post his or her own bond.

Q: What are the liabilities to being the surety?
A: If the notary does something illegal in regards to notarizing a document, the surety could be held responsible for up to $500 per occurence.

Q: Is the use of a seal necessary?
A: Only if the document being notarized is going out of state.

Q: Do I have to use my identification number when I notarize a document?
A: At this time it is not required but it is preferred.

Q: Is there a notary handbook available?
A: For further notary information and/or handbook, please go to the Secretary of State's website www.sos.ky.gov.

Q: Will I be notified when my commission is ready to expire?
A: No. The Secretary of State does not send any reminders when your four-year commission will expire.

Q: How do I renew my notary?
A: You need to follow the same procedure as a first-time notary.