When should the seal be applied during finalizing the notarial act?

• A. During the completion of the certificate, along with signing and dating.
• B. After the instrument is delivered to the signer.
• C. Only if the signer requests it.
• D. Never; seals are optional.

Answer: (A)

The seal belongs on the document as you finalize the notarial act, at the same moment you sign and date the certificate. In Georgia, the notary’s seal serves to authenticate the certificate itself, so it should be affixed as part of the completion of the notarization, not after the instrument has been delivered or on a separate occasion. It isn’t optional and isn’t something you apply only if the signer asks for it. By sealing the certificate during finalization, you ensure the act is fully completed and the document bears the official mark that confirms you performed the notarization.