New York Notary Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Exam Prep

When a notary encounters an incomplete document, the appropriate action is to refuse to notarize and inform the signer of the need for completion. It is crucial for a notary to ensure that they are notarizing a complete and coherent document, as notarization attests to the authenticity of the signatures and the integrity of the document's contents. Notarizing an incomplete document could potentially mislead parties about the contents and intention of the document, and it may lead to legal issues or disputes in the future.

Notaries have the responsibility to verify the document's completeness because they are certified to provide assurance regarding the identity of the signer and the validity of the signatures. If the document is not complete, this assurance cannot be provided, and the notary risks compromising their role and the legal validity of the notarization.

Completing the document themselves is not an option for a notary since they must not alter or add to any document they notarize. Likewise, notarizing only the parts that are complete can create confusion and does not fulfill the legal requirement of a notarized document. Therefore, the correct action is to encourage the signer to finish the document before proceeding with notarization.