Michigan 98 PDF Form

Filling out the Michigan 98 form, which is the application for a Michigan Notary Public Commission, requires attention to detail and accuracy. A common mistake is not ensuring that the full name provided matches exactly with the name on the state driver's license or ID card, as outlined in section 1 of the form. This discrepancy can lead to the rejection of the application since the name must be consistent across all legal documents.

Another area where applicants often err is in the section regarding previous names or aliases in section 2. Failure to indicate any previous names or properly checking the N/A box if it does not apply can cause confusion and further delay the process. It's important to be thorough and honest in this section to avoid any issues with identity verification.

Applicants frequently overlook the requirement to include their residence address that matches their license or ID file in section 4. This detail is crucial because it ensures correspondence and the notary commission card are sent to the correct address. Including PO boxes, lot, and apartment numbers is also essential to ensure the delivery of official documents.

A critical step that is often missed is the signing and dating of the application to affirm the accuracy and truthfulness of the provided information. This action, required at the end of the application process, is not only a formality but a legal acknowledgment of the responsibilities and duties of a notary public.

One of the most consequential oversights occurs when applicants fail to disclose any felony or misdemeanor convictions within the last ten years in section 11. Not being transparent about past convictions can result in the denial of the notary public commission, as honesty is a fundamental trait expected of a notary public.

Another common mistake is not correctly indicating whether the applicant currently holds or has ever held a notary public commission in any state, as asked in section 12. This information is vital to verify the applicant's history and experience as a notary, influencing the decision-making process.

Many applicants neglect the need to submit the application along with the $10.00 check or money order payable to the State of Michigan, as mentioned at the end of the form instructions. The processing fee is a mandatory part of the application and must accompany the form when mailed for consideration.

Lastly, applicants often forget to check their eligibility criteria thoroughly before applying, such as age, residency, literacy in English, and not being incarcerated. These criteria are fundamental to the application process, and failing to meet them can result in immediate disqualification. It is advised to review all requirements carefully to ensure eligibility before proceeding with the application.

When applying for a Michigan Notary Public Commission, various forms and documents can play a critical role in the process, extending beyond the primary Michigan 98 form. These additional forms and documents ensure compliance, validate identity, and establish the legal authority of the notary public. Understanding the significance and requirements of each can streamline the application process and ensure adherence to Michigan's legal standards.

• Surety Bond Form: This document is essential for the notary application process. It acts as a financial guarantee from a third party (the surety) that the notary will perform their duties according to law. In Michigan, a $10,000.00 surety bond is required unless the applicant is a licensed attorney.
• Oath of Office: This is a sworn declaration that the notary applicant will uphold the constitution and laws of the state and perform their duties to the best of their ability. It must be taken before a person authorized by law to administer oaths.
• Michigan Change of Address/Voter Registration Form: If an applicant's address has changed, this form must be submitted to ensure that the notary public’s commission information is mailed to the correct address.
• Michigan Notary Public Request for Duplicate/Notice of Change Form: This form is used to report any changes in the notary's name or address, or to request a duplicate commission certificate.
• Identification Documents: A copy of the applicant's Michigan driver’s license or state identification card is required to verify the applicant's identity and residency.
• Application Fee Payment Receipt: Proof of payment of the nonrefundable application fee, typically a receipt of the $10.00 check or money order payable to the "State of Michigan," must accompany the application submission.
• Felony or Misdemeanor Conviction Documentation: If applicable, details and documentation of any felony or misdemeanor convictions within the last ten years must be included with the application.
• Previous Commission Information: For applicants who have previously held a notary commission, information including the state of commission and dates must be provided.
• Professional License Information: For applicants who are licensed attorneys in Michigan, a State Bar number is required instead of a surety bond.

The collection and completion of these documents are crucial steps in securing a Notary Public Commission in Michigan. Applicants must pay close attention to the accuracy and completeness of these documents to avoid delays or rejections. Each form plays a unique role in establishing the legal authority, qualifications, and accountability of those seeking to perform notarial acts within Michigan.

• Application for Business License: This document shared similarities with the Michigan 98 form as both require detailed personal information, business address (if applicable), and legal attestations regarding the applicant's eligibility and compliance with state regulations.
• Voter Registration Application: Similar to the Michigan 98 form, a voter registration application collects personal identification information, residence information, and requires a signature to attest to the accuracy of the information provided and compliance with eligibility criteria.
• Passport Application: This document also requires comprehensive personal details, proof of citizenship, and a declaration of the truthfulness of the information provided, akin to the affirmation needed in the Michigan 98 form for notary public commission.
• Driver’s License Renewal Form: Both forms necessitate current personal details, including residence address that must match official identification documents, and a signature verifying the correctness of the information.
• Professional Licensing Application: Similar to the Michigan 98 form, these applications often require professional information, such as licensure numbers for verification, personal details, and a declaration or oath concerning professional conduct and compliance with state laws.
• State Employment Application: Like the Michigan 98 form, a state employment application requests detailed personal information, employment history, and certifications of the data's accuracy under penalty of perjury.
• Vehicle Registration Form: This form shares the requirement for accurate personal and identification information, such as a driver's license number, with the Michigan 98 form, as well as directives for changes in address or name similar to those detailed for notary public commission changes.
• Firearm Permit Application: Requires personal identification information, background checks, and legal attestations regarding eligibility and compliance with state regulations, resonating with the Michigan 98 form's requirements for legal declarations and background disclosures.
• Marriage License Application: Demands thorough personal information from both parties, similar identity verification, and legal attestations to the truthfulness of the information provided, reflecting the Michigan 98 form’s emphasis on accurate and truthful application data.
• Change of Address Form (for state ID or Driver’s License): This form requires residents to update their address information accurately, paralleling the Michigan 98 form’s instructions for updating personal address details and ensuring they align with official identification documents.

When filling out the Michigan 98 form for a Notary Public Commission, there are specific steps you must follow to ensure your application is processed correctly. Below is a list of things you should and shouldn't do.

• Do:
• Print legibly or type all information to ensure clarity.
• Ensure your full name matches the one on your State driver’s license or ID card.
• Include your residence address that matches the one on your driver’s license or ID, including any P.O. boxes, lot, and apartment numbers.
• Check the box N/A if you do not have a business address or certain other information requested.
• Accurately disclose any felony or misdemeanor convictions from the past ten years.
• Describe your previous notary public commissions if applicable, including any revocations or suspensions.
• Sign your name exactly as it should appear on all notarized documents.
• Swear the constitutional oath of office, file a $10,000.00 surety bond (if not a licensed attorney), and pay the $10 filing fee at the county clerk before mailing the application.
• Send the application with a $10.00 check or money order (no cash) payable to the State of Michigan within 90 days of your oath and bond filing.

• Don't:
• Submit your application early if you are currently a commissioned notary in Michigan. Wait until 60 days before your commission expires.
• Use a name on the form that doesn't match your legal documentation without proper indication.
• Forget to include the issuance state of your driver’s license or ID card.
• Leave mandatory fields incomplete; the application will be returned.
• Omit details about past criminal convictions; attach additional pages if necessary.
• Attempt to notarize documents before your oath, bond (if applicable), fees are filed, and you have received your commission information.
• Provide an incorrect payment type or amount with the application; it must be a $10.00 check or money order.
• List an address that doesn't match your ID without following the proper process to update it.
• Assume the State of Michigan provides notary public stamps or seals; you must obtain these yourself if desired.
• Ignore the requirement to report any changes of name or address to the Office of the Great Seal.

There are several misunderstandings about the Michigan 98 form, which is essential for anyone applying to become a notary public in the state of Michigan. Addressing these misconceptions can clarify the process and requirements for applicants.

• Misconception #1: The application process is complicated and requires extensive legal knowledge.

  Actually, the Michigan 98 form is straightforward and designed for applicants to complete without needing specialized legal knowledge. It guides applicants through the necessary steps to provide personal and professional information accurately.

• Misconception #2: You need to file your application with the Office of the Great Seal before taking any other steps.

  In reality, applicants must first swear a constitutional oath of office and file a $10,000 surety bond with their county clerk, along with paying a filing fee, prior to sending their application to the Office of the Great Seal.

• Misconception #3: A notary public commission is immediately active once the application is submitted.

  Commissioning as a notary public requires a few steps to be completed. Only after the oath, bond, and fees are filed with the county clerk, the application and fees are submitted to the Office of the Great Seal, and the commission information is received, can a person act as a notary public.

• Misconception #4: Any address can be used on the application form.

  The residence address provided on the application must match what is on file with the Michigan Department of State for the applicant's driver's license or personal identification card. If different, the application will be returned with instructions to update the address to match official records.

• Misconception #5: Attorneys are required to follow the same process as non-attorneys when applying.

  While it’s true that attorneys and non-attorneys both need to complete the Michigan 98 form, licensed attorneys in Michigan do not need to file a surety bond. They simply need to enter their State Bar number on the application.

• Misconception #6: Once commissioned, notary publics can use any name for notarizing documents.

  A notary public must use their commissioned name on all notarized documents. This name may differ from the full name as it appears on a driver license or ID but must be consistent on all notarized paperwork.

• Misconception #7: A notary public stamp or seal is required for the role.

  The State of Michigan does not require the use of a notary public stamp or seal. While notaries are free to use them, the state does not provide or sell these items.

• Misconception #8: You can apply for a new notary public commission at any time.

  Those already commissioned as notary publics in the State of Michigan cannot apply for a new commission until 60 days before their current commission expires. This ensures that notary publics are not commissioned more frequently than necessary.

Understanding these key points about the Michigan 98 form helps streamline the application process for prospective notary publics and clarifies the responsibilities and requirements involved.

When applying for a Michigan Notary Public Commission with the Michigan 98 form, it's important to approach the process with attention to detail and an understanding of the requirements. Here are four key takeaways to consider:

• Ensure that all fields are completed accurately to avoid having your application returned. Information such as your full name, residence address, and driver’s license or personal identification card number must match what is currently on file with the Michigan Department of State. Additionally, your email address, business address (if applicable), and any previous convictions must be disclosed.
• Understand the process and fees involved. Before submitting your application to the Office of the Great Seal, you must swear a constitutional oath of office, file a $10,000.00 surety bond, and pay a $10.00 nonrefundable filing fee at your county clerk's office. The bond can be obtained from licensed surety agencies or insurance agents. If you're a licensed attorney in Michigan, you are exempt from the surety bond requirement upon providing your State Bar number.
• The application, once completed, and the $10.00 fee must be mailed to the Michigan Department of State Office of the Great Seal within 90 days from the date of the oath and bond filing with your county clerk. This ensures your application is processed in a timely manner.
• Your commission as a notary public will last for six years from your next birthday following the date of commission issuance. Any changes in your name or address during this period must be reported using the Michigan Notary Public Request for Duplicate/Notice of Change form. Additionally, while a notary public stamp and/or seal is not required in Michigan, these items can be purchased at a local office supply store or printing shop for those who choose to use them.

Remember, acting as a notary public without completing these steps, including receiving your commission information, is not permitted. Always ensure that your application details are correct and that you've followed all procedural steps carefully to become a commissioned notary public in Michigan.