NY Notary Stamp Requirements - What Your Seal Must Include

Your NY notary stamp is a legal instrument. Using a non-compliant stamp can invalidate notarizations and expose you to liability. Here is exactly what is required.

Does NY Law Require a Notary Stamp?

New York notary law requires notaries to sign notarial certificates. A rubber stamp or embosser seal is not legally required under NY law - your signature is the legal requirement. However, it is standard practice to use a stamp, and most receiving parties (banks, courts, government agencies) expect to see one.

More importantly, if you choose to use a stamp, it must include specific information to be valid and to clearly identify you as a commissioned NY notary.

Required Information on Your NY Notary Stamp

While NY law does not specify an exact stamp format, industry standard and practical necessity require your stamp to include:

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Your full name - Exactly as it appears on your commission
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The words "Notary Public, State of New York" - Required to identify the commissioning state
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Your county of commission - e.g., "Qualified in New York County"
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Your commission expiration date - Month and year at minimum
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Your commission number (recommended) - Not legally required but strongly advised

Stamp vs Embosser Seal

Rubber Stamp (Recommended)

Ink stamp that leaves a clear impression on the document. Most widely accepted format. Ink color (blue or black) is most common. Clearly visible on photocopies and scans.

Embosser Seal

Crimps the paper to leave a raised impression. Traditional and professional-looking. Problem: may not photocopy or scan clearly. Many agencies now prefer ink stamps for this reason.

Update your stamp when your commission renews

Your stamp shows your commission expiration date. After renewal, you need a new stamp with the updated expiration date. Using an expired-date stamp may cause documents to be rejected.

Where to Buy a NY Notary Stamp

Notary stamps are available from office supply stores (Staples, Office Depot), online retailers (Amazon, notary supply websites), and specialty notary supply companies. Prices typically range from $15-40 for a standard ink stamp. Allow 2-5 business days for custom stamp production.

What to Do If Your Stamp Is Lost or Stolen

Report a lost or stolen notary stamp to the NY Department of State immediately. A lost stamp in the wrong hands could be used to fraudulently notarize documents. Order a replacement stamp promptly and use your new commission number if applicable.