Deadline nears for notaries to renew commissions

Minnesota Secretary of State Mark Ritchie reminds notaries with commissions expiring in 2012 to renew their commission by the January 31 deadline.

“Notaries must keep their commissions current. They can renew their commissions online on our website at www.sos.state.mn.us,” said Secretary of State Mark Ritchie.

Notaries public are appointed by the governor and approved by the state senate after filing with the Office of the Secretary of State. Notary commissions are valid for a five year term and expire on January 31 of the fifth year. Prior to the commission’s expiration, it must be renewed.

Notaries have the option of renewing either online or by mail. There is a $120 renewal filing fee that can be paid online using a credit card (Visa or Master card) or E-check. Once renewals are approved, commission certificates are available online for immediate printing. Commission certificates will include additional instructions on registering with the notary’s county of residence. The county of residence will charge a $20 fee due upon registration. Instructions and forms are available at: https://notary.sos.state.mn.us.

If a notary public commission expires, a notary must seek reappointment by submitting a complete Notary Public Application. Application forms are also available at

https://notary.sos.state.mn.us.

“It is important for anyone conducting a transaction such as adopting a child, buying a home or starting a business that a notary certifies the authenticity of that process,” concluded Secretary Ritchie.

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