Who here does the finger/thumb print in the notary book? I’m in Washington where it’s not required. I’m just curious how many do and if you do even if it’s not required.
Yes, I do. I’m in California and thumbprint in notary journal is required for all Deeds and POAs. From the 2026 California Notary Public Handbook:
“• If the document to be notarized is a deed, quitclaim deed, deed of trust, or other document
affecting real property or a power of attorney document, the notary public shall require
the party signing the document to place their right thumbprint in the journal. If the right
thumbprint is not available, then the notary public shall have the party use their left
thumb, or any available finger and shall so indicate in the journal. If the party signing the
document is physically unable to provide a thumb or fingerprint, the notary public shall
so indicate in the journal and shall provide an explanation of that physical condition.”
Not required in FL…we can ask them for it but if they refuse we cannot refuse to notarize based on their refusal.
I have never Thumbprinted anyone
I am in WA I do not do it.
Here’s a tip from a pro. When you can’t find your thumb inker, probably because it’s in the pocket of the last pair of pants you wore, you can swipe the signer’s thumb across your notary stamp. Works, I know , I’ve done it. We’re required to thumbprint signers in the Golden State to prevent fraud, because stealing someone’s property is illegal in these parts. So serious is this requirement that the forgetful notary can be fined up to $2,500 and immediately submit to the public amputation of his or her left thumb.
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Texas specifically prohibits collecting/entering personal biometric identifies in your journal. This means no capturing finger prints in your journal.