Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Notary Public in Massachusetts
Meet the Eligibility Requirements
Before applying to become a notary public in Massachusetts, ensure you meet the following requirements:
1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
2. Residency: You must be a legal resident of Massachusetts, or have a place of employment or practice within the state.
3. Character: You must be of good moral character and have no felony convictions or convictions of crimes involving fraud, dishonesty, or deceit.
Obtain and Complete the Application
You will need to complete the Notary Public Application form. You can download the application form directly from the Massachusetts state website.
Download the Application Form: [Massachusetts Notary Public Application Form] (https://www.mass.gov/doc/notary-public-application/download)
Obtain the Required Signatures
The application form requires signatures from the following:
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Three References: Obtain signatures from three individuals who are not related to you by blood or marriage and who have known you for at least three years.
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Attorney or Justice of the Peace: Obtain a signature from an attorney or justice of the peace licensed or appointed in Massachusetts.
Submit the Application
Once the application is completed and signed, you need to submit it along with the application fee.
Application Fee: The fee is $60. Payment can be made by check or money order payable to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Mailing Address: Mail your completed application and payment to:
Notary Public Office
Office of the Governor
Room 184, State House
Boston, MA 02133
Complete the Oath of Office
Once your application is approved, you will receive a commission certificate. Before you can begin your duties as a notary public, you must take an oath of office.
Where to Take the Oath: The oath can be taken before a notary public or another official authorized to administer oaths.
File the Oath: After taking the oath, you must file the oath of office with the Registry of Deeds in the county where you reside or work.
Purchase Notary Supplies
You will need to purchase a notary seal or stamp, which includes the following information:
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Your name as it appears on your commission.
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The words "Notary Public."
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The words "Commonwealth of Massachusetts."
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The expiration date of your commission.
Begin Performing Notarial Acts
Once you have taken the oath and obtained your notary seal, you are officially a notary public in Massachusetts and can begin performing notarial acts.
Additional Information and Resources
For more detailed information, you can refer to the Massachusetts Notary Public website:
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General Information: [Massachusetts Notary Public Information] (https://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-to-become-a-notary-public)
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Notary Public Guide: [Massachusetts Notary Public Guide] (https://www.mass.gov/doc/a-guide-for-massachusetts-notaries-public/download)
This guide will help you through the process of becoming a notary public in Massachusetts. If you have any specific questions or need further assistance, the Office of the Governor or the Secretary of the Commonwealth's office can provide additional support.