What essential information must be included in a Notary's journal?

The correct choice emphasizes the importance of thorough record-keeping in a Notary's journal. A Notary is required to document essential information to create an accurate record of the notarization process, which serves as evidence in case of disputes or inquiries later.

Including the signer's name ensures that the Notary can precisely identify who appeared before them and requested the notarization. The date of signing is crucial as it marks the official time when the notarization took place, which could be important for legal timelines or claims. Additionally, noting the identification method clarifies how the Notary confirmed the identity of the signer, which could be via government-issued ID or another accepted form of identification. This level of detail in record-keeping not only fulfills legal obligations but also protects both the Notary and the signer by maintaining transparency and accountability in the notarization process.

In contrast, including a full social security number is not standard practice for Notaries, as this information could pose privacy risks. Recording only a signature and the date lacks the comprehensive details necessary to confirm the identity of the signer and the circumstances of the notarization. Summarizing the document's content is also not typically a requirement or standard practice; rather, the focus is on the particulars related to