What action must a notary take before performing a notarization?

Before performing a notarization, it is crucial for a notary to check their commission status and ensure that proper procedures are followed. This is essential to confirm that the notary is currently authorized to perform notarizations and has not let their commission expire. By ensuring they are in good standing, the notary protects the integrity of the notarization process and upholds legal standards.

Additionally, following proper procedures is vital to ensure that the notarization is valid. This includes confirming the identity of the signer, assessing their willingness to sign without coercion, and ensuring that the document meets all necessary criteria for notarization. By adhering to these guidelines, the notary helps to prevent fraud and protect all parties involved.

Other options, such as collecting payment or verifying a signer’s credit history, are not standard requirements for performing a notarization and could divert focus from the essential duties that center around the authenticity and legality of the notarization itself.