Illinois Notary Primer Practice Exam

During which scenario should a notary require a signer to provide additional documentation?

1. Only if the signer requests it

2. When the notary suspects fraud

3. For every notarization

4. When documenting an affidavit

The correct answer is: When the notary suspects fraud

The requirement for a notary to seek additional documentation is primarily rooted in the notary's responsibility to prevent fraud. When a notary suspects that the transaction may involve fraudulent activity or that the identity of the signer cannot be reliably established based on the provided identification, it is prudent and often necessary to require additional documentation. This helps ensure that all parties are protected and that the notarization process upholds its integrity. In situations that raise suspicion, further verifying the signer's identity or intentions through additional documentation can help confirm that the signature is genuine and that the signer fully understands the implications of the document they are signing. This not only safeguards the notary's commission but also fortifies the legal validity of the notarization process. Requiring additional documentation should not be a routine practice for every notarization or done solely at the request of the signer, but rather employed judiciously in circumstances that raise concerns, such as perceived inconsistencies or risks of deception.