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1. An application may be obtained from the Secretary of State's office at www.sos.IN.gov/business/notary/forms.html.
   
   It is suggested that a notary use either one of the following:
   • Both his/her first and middle names
   • First name with middle initial
   • Initial and middle name along with his/her surname
     
     
   A person should not use both first and middle initials only (for example: J.S. Smith).
   
   
2. After the application has been completed, the applicant shall personally appear before an officer authorized to administer oaths, who shall administer the oath of the office to the applicant. (Ind. Code 33-16-2-1(d))
   
   
3. The applicant shall secure an official bond with freehold or corporate security, to be approved by the Secretary of State, in the sum of five thousand dollars ($5000). The bond shall be conditioned upon the faithful performance and discharge of duties of the office of the notary public, for the use by any person injured by a breach of the notary's duties. (Ind. Code 33-16-2-1 (e))
   
   
4. Each application requires a five dollar ($5) fee. Each duplicate commission also requires a five dollar ($5) fee. Fees are payable by check or money order.
   
   
5. A seal must be used in all official acts of the notary public. Such may be purchased at various retail stores.

If any notary changes his/her name or county of residence during his/her term of commission, he/she shall notify the Secretary of State in writing of the change. The Secretary of State will issue a revised commission valid only for the remaining term of the original commission. (Ind. Code 33-16-2-8) If the notary misplaces his/her commission, he/she should notify the Secretary of State's office of the loss. A duplicate commission will be issued, valid only during the duration of the original commission.

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