National
When a hurricane is approaching, your first priority is the safety of yourself and your loved ones. But if you're a commissioned notary public, it's also important to consider how to protect your notary tools and records. These items are not only essential to your duties, but they could be misused if lost or stolen during a natural disaster.
Read more: Hurricane Preparedness for Notaries: How to Protect Your Notary Supplies
If it’s been a while since you became a notary—or since your last notary training—you’re not alone. Many notaries go years without formal instruction, relying on memory or quick online searches to guide their duties. But laws change and procedures get updated.
Read more: Feeling Out of Practice? Here’s How to Brush Up on Your Notary Skills
While your official stamp or seal might get all the attention, your journal is equally important. A well-maintained journal can protect you in case of disputes and ensure accuracy in your work. Learn why prefilling entries can lead to errors and how to keep your records reliable.
Read more: Prefilling Record Book (Journal) Entries: A Practice to Avoid
Notaries have a legal and professional responsibility to “keep up” with their commission status and notary tools. Changes in personal information, criminal history, or eligibility to hold office are all details that must be reported.
Oklahoma has enacted Senate Bill 1028, a significant update to the state’s notary public laws that introduces background checks, increases the bond amount, and adjusts application and filing fees for notaries. These changes take effect January 1, 2026, and affect anyone applying for or renewing a notary commission in the state.
Read more: Oklahoma Senate Bill 1028: Key Notary Law Changes Effective January 1, 2026