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What are the Requirements when my Seal/Stamp is Lost or Stolen?

Thursday, April 26, 2018

Categories: Frequently Asked Questions

Comments: 2

Lost or Stolen Seal/Stamp Requirements

If the seal is lost, misplaced, destroyed, broken, damaged, or is rendered otherwise unworkable, the notary public must:

  • Immediately deliver written notice of that fact to the Secretary of State by certified mail, or the use of any other means of physical delivery that provides a receipt for these communications, for example: FedEx, USPS, UPS.
  • The Secretary of State, within five working days after receipt of the notice, if requested by a notary, shall issue a certificate of authorization which a notary may use to obtain a replacement seal.
    • Government Code section 8207.3(e)

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  1. Megan D Helms Megan D Helms Dear whom it may concern,

    My notary bag was burned in the Campfire, I have just now returned to work, and am learning what needs to be done to obtain new supplies. I see I need to send a written notice. Would you be able to tell me please what the address is to send it. Awaiting your reply, Meg Wednesday, January 9, 2019
  2. The author Hi Megan,

    In response to your question regarding your Notary bag with your journal and seal/stamp: You must immediately send written notice to the Secretary of State by any form of receipt mail, to

    Secretary of State
    Notary Division
    1500 11th Street – 2nd Floor
    Sacramento, CA 95814

    Include a written explanation of the loss in the fire for your seal and the journal.
    The requirement is that you include: 1) The periods of the journal entries, 2) The notary public commission number, 3) The commission expiration date, and 4) if there is a police report, a photocopy of the police report.

    Always give as much information as possible. If you have questions, you may call the Secretary of State’s Notary office 916-653-6814.
    Monday, March 18, 2019
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