A stamp is optional in law but standard in practice. New York requires no seal; the Statement of Authority beneath your signature can be handwritten in black ink — but a stamp guarantees the four required elements are complete and consistent every time, which is why virtually every working notary uses one. Beyond the stamp: E&O insurance is optional (no bond is required in New York) and worth considering; a record journal has been required since January 2023. NotaryStyle covers supplies and the business side, starting with its New York notary guide.
