Ohio Notary Practice Exam

If a notary legally changes their name, what must they do?

1. Change their name on all previous documents

2. Advise the Secretary of State within 30 days and pay a fee

3. Only inform clients of the name change

4. No action is necessary

The correct answer is: Advise the Secretary of State within 30 days and pay a fee

The correct choice that a notary must take after legally changing their name is to advise the Secretary of State within 30 days and pay a fee. This requirement ensures that the notary's official records are updated to reflect the legal name change, which is essential for maintaining the integrity and accuracy of public records. It also ensures that the notary's commission reflects their current name, which is crucial for the validity of any notarizations they perform post-name change. This action protects both the notary and the public by providing an accurate legal identity for notarial acts. Failing to update this information in a timely manner could lead to complications or disputes regarding notarized documents, especially if a name different from the one on the notary’s seal appears on a legal document. The other options, while they might seem reasonable in some contexts, do not fulfill the legal requirements set forth for notaries in Ohio. For instance, simply changing the name on documents or merely informing clients could lead to a lack of clarity in the notary's legal standing and official capacity. Therefore, the correct process must be followed to maintain proper legal compliance.