What must be included in a notary's journal if the journal is maintained?

• A. Document contents
• B. Signerpersonal opinion
• C. Notary's personal address
• D. Date and type of act performed

Answer: (D)

When a notary keeps a journal, the entries must provide a clear, factual record of what was done. The most essential details are the date of the act and the type of notarial act performed. The date gives a precise point in time for the record, which is important for eligibility, deadlines, and potential disputes. The type of act—acknowledgment, jurat, oath, copy certification, etc.—identifies exactly what service was rendered, so someone reviewing the log can understand the nature of the act without needing to glimpse the document’s contents.

Including the document’s contents or the signer’s personal opinions isn’t appropriate for the journal, as it would expose private information and aren’t necessary for verifying the act. A notary’s personal address isn’t required as part of the journal entry and could raise privacy concerns. So, the minimum, correct elements to include are the date and the type of act performed, forming a reliable, chronological record of the notarial service.