Key Takeaways
- Ink stamp seal is REQUIRED on every notarization
- Embossers are optional but cannot be used alone
- Seal must include: State of Nebraska, General Notary, name, expiration date
- Seal must be legible on every document
- No specific size requirements but must be readable
Last updated: January 2026
Nebraska Notary Seal and Stamp Requirements
Primary Requirement: Ink Stamp
Nebraska requires an ink stamp seal for all notarizations. This is mandatory.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Ink stamp (rubber stamp) |
| Format | Rectangle or circular |
| Legibility | Must be readable on every document |
| Use | Required on every notarization |
Required Seal Elements
Every Nebraska notary seal MUST include:
| Element | Example |
|---|---|
| "State of Nebraska" | State of Nebraska |
| "General Notary" or "General Notarial" | General Notary |
| Notary's commissioned name | John A. Smith |
| Commission expiration date | Exp. 01/15/2030 |
Sample Seal Layout
┌─────────────────────────────┐
│ STATE OF NEBRASKA │
│ GENERAL NOTARY │
│ JOHN A. SMITH │
│ Exp. 01/15/2030 │
└─────────────────────────────┘
Embosser (Optional)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Required? | No, optional |
| Use alone? | NO - cannot be used as the only seal |
| Purpose | Additional security (creates raised impression) |
| Best practice | Use in addition to ink stamp for extra fraud protection |
Why Embossers Cannot Be Used Alone
- Embosser impressions may not photograph or copy clearly
- Some documents need to be scanned or faxed
- Ink stamp ensures legibility in all formats
Seal Care and Security
| Best Practice | Reason |
|---|---|
| Store in secure location | Prevent unauthorized use |
| Never lend to others | Only YOU can use your seal |
| Destroy upon expiration | Prevent misuse of old seal |
| Report loss/theft | Protect against fraud |
| Order new seal for renewal | Expiration date changes |
When to Use the Seal
| Document/Act | Seal Required? |
|---|---|
| Acknowledgments | Yes |
| Jurats | Yes |
| Oaths/Affirmations (standalone) | Yes |
| Copy certifications | Yes |
| Protests | Yes |
| Any notarial act | Yes |
Common Seal Mistakes
| Mistake | Correction |
|---|---|
| Seal impression too light | Apply more pressure, re-ink |
| Seal placed over text | Place in clear area |
| Wrong seal used | Void and re-notarize |
| Expired date on seal | Get new seal before commission renewal |
| Smudged seal | May need to re-stamp clearly |
Ordering Your Seal
Order from:
- Nebraska notary supply companies
- National notary associations
- Online notary seal providers
Wait until commission is approved to order (need exact expiration date)
On the Exam
- Ink stamp is required (not optional)
- Embosser alone is NOT acceptable
- Seal must include: State of Nebraska, General Notary, name, expiration date
- Seal must be legible on every document
- Seal required on every notarial act
Test Your Knowledge
Which of the following is TRUE about Nebraska notary seals?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
Which of the following must be included on a Nebraska notary seal?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
What should a notary do with their seal when their commission expires?
A
B
C
D