How should a notary respond if asked to alter a document’s content?

• A. Alter minor clerical errors without issue.
• B. Refuse to alter content; explain legal implications and suggest consulting an attorney for drafting.
• C. Change the content after charging a fee.
• D. Ask the signer to consult an attorney but still alter content.

Answer: (B)

Notaries serve as neutral witnesses who verify a signer’s identity and intent, not as drafters or editors of the document. If someone asks you to change what the document says, you should decline to modify the content. Changing the text can alter the legal effect, may amount to fraud or misrepresentation, and could compromise the validity of the notarization.

Instead, explain the legal implications and direct them to a licensed attorney to draft or amend the document. If changes are truly needed, have the attorney prepare a corrected or new document, and then re-notarize once the final content is ready. You can still assist by confirming the signer’s identity and ensuring they sign the document knowingly and willingly.