What should a notary do if a document is altered after notarization?

• A. You may notarize an altered document with a note indicating the alteration.
• B. You should seal and notarize after making minor changes.
• C. Do not notarize altered documents; correct the document and perform a new notarization with a new certificate.
• D. Ignore the alteration and proceed with the original certificate.

Answer: (C)

When a notary signs and seals a document, the certification applies to the exact content and appearance of that document at the time of notarization. If the document is altered afterward, the notarization no longer corresponds to the current content, which can mislead about what was actually witnessed or acknowledged. To protect the integrity of the record, you should not notarize an altered document. Instead, correct the document so that it matches the intended, final text, then have the parties re-execute it and obtain a new notarization with a fresh certificate. This ensures the notarization accurately reflects the document as it stands and preserves the trustworthiness of the record.

The other options imply endorsing or proceeding with altered content, which can create fraud or confusion and are not appropriate practices.