Why Permanent Ink Protects Your Important Documents
Every document that bears your signature and binds you to its terms should be completed and signed with a permanent pen. Using the wrong pen can create serious problems for legal and notarized documents, including delays, disputes, and even invalidation. A document written and signed in erasable ink could be altered later, even unintentionally. That puts everyone at risk: the Principal, whose authority might be disputed; the Agent, who could face challenges using the document; and the Notary, who could be held responsible for notarizing something that is no longer secure.
Erasable pens use heat‑sensitive ink that can vanish when exposed to warmth, friction, or time. Legal documents need to withstand years of handling, scanning, and filing, which is why permanent blue or black ink pens are widely required and preferred for notarizations and official records.
Fun fact: In New York State, a Notary Public must sign their name in black ink under Executive Law § 137.
A Real Power of Attorney Example
This week, I assisted someone who needed a Power of Attorney notarized while in a health care setting. Everything went smoothly until I noticed the signer had used an erasable pen to complete and sign the document. Fortunately, we caught it in time. I asked them to complete the document again with permanent ink, verified their signatures, and left them with a properly signed and notarized Power of Attorney ready for use.
It was a relief for everyone and a powerful reminder of why ink choice really matters. If that document had remained in erasable ink, it could later have been changed or partially disappeared, creating confusion and risk for all parties involved. This type of situation is avoidable simply by choosing a reliable permanent ink pen before signing.
Best Ink Practices for Notarized Documents
Permanent blue or black ink is the standard for most legal and notarized documents because it scans clearly, resists tampering, and remains legible over time. Blue ink is often preferred for the signer by the document recipient because it not only resists fading but also helps easily identify the original copy from duplicates. You can avoid delays by asking the recipient if there is a preference for black or blue before completing the document.
As a mobile and remote Notary Public, I take document integrity very seriously. My goal is to ensure every client is left with peace of mind, knowing their paperwork is signed and notarized correctly so they can conduct their business without delay. Before you sign that important document, take a moment to check your pen, choose a permanent black or blue ink pen, and if you are ever unsure, ask your notary for a pen to use. If they are like me, they likely travel with many pens in their bag to share!
🖋️ I am Beth McGee, your Binghamton Notary Public, providing professional mobile and remote Notary services throughout Broome and surrounding New York counties.
I come to you or meet with you online for secure, convenient notarization where you need it most.
Call or text today to schedule your notarization, or visit BinghamtonNotaryPublic.com to learn more about how I ensure your important documents are signed and notarized correctly.
