North Carolina Notary Practice Exam

Which statement is true regarding the notification requirements for lost notary seals?

1. Notification is only required for stolen seals

2. Notification must be written and must be made to the sheriff's office and Register of Deeds

3. Only the sheriff's office needs to be notified verbally

4. No notification is required

The correct answer is: Notification must be written and must be made to the sheriff's office and Register of Deeds

The correct statement regarding the notification requirements for lost notary seals is that notification must be written and must be made to the sheriff's office and Register of Deeds. This requirement ensures that appropriate authorities are informed about the loss of a notary seal, which is crucial for protecting against potential fraudulent activities that could arise from the unauthorized use of the seal. By notifying both the sheriff's office and the Register of Deeds, a notary can take necessary precautions, thus contributing to the integrity of public records and maintaining the trust placed in notarial acts. The requirement for written notification highlights the importance of having a formal record of the loss, allowing for greater transparency and accountability. The sheriff's office can take measures to monitor any misuse while the Register of Deeds can update public records as needed. This process reinforces the ethical responsibility notaries have regarding their seals and the importance of safeguarding them against misuse.