What Does a Maryland State Notary Public Seal Look Like?
In some states, a notary public can operate without having an official seal of office; in states such as those, the notary’s signature on a notarized document often serves the same purpose. However, in most states a notary is either strongly encouraged or flat-out required to have a seal of office in the form of a rubber stamp or an embossed seal; this is the case in the state of Maryland. In fact, there are several rules specific to the state when it comes to Maryland notary public stamps and seals. Here’s what you might not know about them:
As in several states, you can choose from either a round or rectangular rubber stamp or a round embossing seal to serve as your Maryland notary public stamp or seal. While you have a choice in how your seal of office is affixed to a document to be notarized, you must include a fair amount of standardized information in your Maryland notary public stamp and seal.
This includes your name as it appears on your commission, the county in which you were appointed (or the phrase “City of Baltimore” if you were appointed there), and the words “Notary Public.”You do have your choice of devices or symbols to be included in your own notary seal, but Maryland prohibits the use of its Great Seal. Moreover, it’s considered customary to not use any such device or symbol on your Maryland notary public stamp or seal. You may also either include or omit information regarding your commission number and its expiration date at your discretion; many notaries will include this additional information on a rectangular rubber stamp and omit it from a circular stamp or embossed seal.
Where Can I Get My Seal and Find More Information?
If you want more information on the rules regarding Maryland notary public stamps and seals, or if you want to pursue becoming a notary for the state of Maryland itself, it’s recommended that you visit the Notary Division of the Maryland Secretary of State’s official website.
Because of the strict requirements the state of Maryland has for the stamps and seals its notaries can use, you need a company you can trust to make your Maryland notary public stamp or seal to your state’s exacting specifications.
This is why you should rely on Acorn Sales Company Incorporated for your Maryland notary public stamp and seal needs. We have the expertise born from 50 years in the industry to provide you with not just a stamp or seal that complies to Maryland law but one you can be proud to wield as your notary seal of office. Contact us today to find out how we can help you!
Frequently Asked Questions
What information must appear on a Maryland notary public seal?
A Maryland notary public seal must include your name exactly as it appears on your commission, the county where you were appointed, or “City of Baltimore” if applicable, and the words “Notary Public.” Including these required elements helps ensure your seal meets Maryland notary public seal requirements.
What shape can a Maryland notary stamp or seal be?
Maryland allows a notary public seal to be either round or rectangular if it is a rubber stamp, or round if it is an embossing seal. Choosing the right format can help you stay compliant while matching how you prefer to notarize documents.
Can I include my commission number and expiration date on my Maryland notary seal?
Yes, you may include your commission number and expiration date on your Maryland notary stamp or seal, but they are optional. Many notaries add this information to a rectangular stamp and leave it off a round stamp or embossed seal.
Is the Maryland Great Seal allowed on a notary public stamp or seal?
No, Maryland prohibits the use of the State’s Great Seal on a notary public stamp or seal. In general, it is also customary not to add extra symbols or devices to the seal unless you are certain they are permitted.
Do Maryland notaries need a rubber stamp or can they use an embossed seal?
Maryland notaries may use either a rubber stamp or an embossed seal, as long as the seal meets state requirements. A compliant stamp or embossing seal should clearly show all required information so your notarized documents are accepted without issues.
Where can I get a compliant Maryland notary public seal?
You can order a compliant Maryland notary public stamp or seal from a trusted notary supply company that understands state requirements. It’s also a good idea to review the latest rules on the Maryland Secretary of State’s Notary Division website before purchasing.
