Are you curious about how to become a notary in Kansas? A notary is an important role in verifying documents, and it’s also an incredibly rewarding profession. Becoming a notary in the state of Kansas isn’t as difficult as you may think. In this blog post, we’re going to break down exactly what steps are involved with becoming certified and getting your official seal so that you can proudly display “Notary Public” on your office door! Keep reading to learn more about all of the nuances behind becoming a Notary in the Sunflower State.
Get All Your Questions Answered: How to Become a Notary in Kansas
Understand the Role of a Notary in Kansas
In Kansas, a notary is an official appointed by the Secretary of State to witness the signing of important documents like wills, deeds, and contracts. Notaries are also authorized to administer oaths and affirmations and serve as impartial witnesses in legal proceedings. How to become a notary in Kansas? Applicants must be at least 18 years old and be US citizens or permanent residents. They must also pass the required notary exam and pay the applicable fees. Additionally, they must possess an understanding of laws governing notaries as specified by Kansas statutes.
Notaries in Kansas are required to keep records of every document they witness including the name and address of each signer, the date of the document, and the signature of the notary. They must also maintain a journal containing all important information associated with each transaction, including fees charged and type of document.
Notaries in Kansas have limited authority to perform certain acts. These are outlined in state statute 562-2-106 on the Secretary of State website. Notaries may certify that a document is a true copy of the original, verify an individual’s signature or identification, and authenticate documents. However, they are not allowed to practice law or provide legal advice on any matter.
In addition to performing their duties faithfully and honestly, Kansas notaries must also uphold a high level of professionalism in the performance of their duties. They must also maintain confidentiality regarding all documents they have witnessed and never disclose any personal information associated with the document.
Review the Eligibility Requirements
How to Become a Notary in Kansas? You must meet the following eligibility requirements below:
- Be at least 18 years of age and be a resident of Kansas or maintain an active business presence in the state.
- Have no criminal convictions that would prevent you from being able to provide notarial services.
- Pay the Notary Public application fee and submit your notary commission request in writing to the Secretary of State.
- Complete a Notary Education Course approved by the state, or provide proof that you have already completed an acceptable course of study.
- Pass a background check conducted by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.
Once you have met these eligibility requirements, you will be able to take the Kansas Notary Public Exam and become a Notary in Kansas. After successful completion of the exam, your notary commission will become effective for four years. Renewal is required every four years by filing an application with the Secretary of State and paying a renewal fee.
Acquire an Application for an Appointment
To apply for a Notary appointment in Kansas, you must obtain an application from the Secretary of State’s office. Visit the website of the Secretary of State or call their office at (785) 296-4564 to obtain the application. The application is also available in person at the office located in Topeka, KS.
The application must be filled out in its entirety and include your signatures. You must also provide a photograph of yourself along with the application. The photograph should be taken within the past 6 months, measure 2×2 inches, and have a white background.
You must also pay a filing fee when submitting your application for appointment. It is $45 for original appointments and $25 for renewal requests. Payment must be in the form of a check or money order made payable to the Secretary of State.
Once you have completed all these steps, mail your application and payment to Kansas Secretary of State, Notary Division, 500 S.W. 10th St., Suite 120-L, Topeka, KS 66612-1594.
If approved, your Notary commission will be valid for 4 years and you may be eligible to renew it. After submitting your application, you will receive an email or letter from the Secretary of State’s office with further information about how to complete the process.
Satisfy Any Necessary Education Requirements
In Kansas, the Secretary of State is responsible for regulating the notary public profession. If you’re learning how to become a notary in Kansas, applicants must meet certain educational requirements.
The primary requirement is that applicants must have completed at least six hours of an approved notarial education course within the last two years before application. Alternatively, those who have been in the notary profession for at least two years before application may submit a letter of experience from an employer and will be exempted from the education requirement.
The Kansas Secretary of State website provides a list of approved educational providers, which offer online or on-site courses. The six required hours must include topics such as notary, ethics and best practices, legal liability, identity proofing and the required completion of a notarial certificate.
Take the Oath of Office and Receive Your Official Notary Seal
Once you have completed the application process, taken the Oath of Office and received your official notary seal, you are ready to begin working as a Notary in Kansas. To practice as a Notary, you must understand and follow all applicable laws and regulations associated with being a Notary in Kansas. You must obtain a copy of the Kansas Notary Public Handbook and become familiar with its contents. This handbook contains important information you need to know about being a Notary in Kansas, including information on fees, commissioning periods and proper notarial acts.
Additionally, you must maintain records of all your notarizations for at least six (6) years. These records should include the date, the name and address of the person signing or affirming the document, a brief description of the document notarized, and your own signature, commission expiration date and official seal. Additionally, you must use your official seal in connection with every notarial act you perform. It is also important to note that while performing your duties as a Notary, you must be impartial and unbiased in every notarial act.
Learning how to become a notary in Kansas can be an incredibly rewarding transition – you’ll have the power to authenticate documents, help people out with their legal needs, and proudly display “notary public” on your office door. Because there are so many intricacies involved in being Notary certified in Kansas - from understanding all relevant statutes to renewing your credentials once they expire – it’s always recommended to seek additional information before taking the exam to ensure you meet all qualifications and are aware of what the task entails. With a bit of diligence, hard work, and commitment though you can soon feel proud that your perseverance paid off!
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