Book excerpt: This handbook outlines the important duties of a notary public. The Illinois Notary Public Act, effective July 1, 1986, was passed to better meet the needs of the modern business world. Effective in June 2000, under certain conditions, residents of states bordering Illinois may be commissioned as Illinois notaries. Following are basic rules for proper and safe notarization: 1) Keep your notary seal in a safe place; 2) Do not notarize a signature unless the signer is present at the time of notarization; 3) Do not lend your stamp to anyone, including your employer; 4) Do not identify a document signer on the word of a friend or employer who is not willing to take an oath; 5) Sign your name on notarial certificates exactly as it appears on your commission and affix your seal.