Notary Public Complaints and Investigations
Complaint and Investigation Overview
The Ohio Secretary of State’s Office has the authority to investigate and discipline Ohio notaries public. Investigations may result in revocation or suspension of a notary’s commission, the issuance of a letter of admonition, or a determination that no action is warranted.
Notaries are required to cooperate fully with investigators and answer all questions related to an investigation; failure to cooperate or respond will result in revocation of the notary’s commission.
It is important to note that the office does not have the authority to determine the validity of a notarized document or to bring criminal charges against a notary public. Individuals seeking to determine the validity of a notarized document should consult an attorney, and complaints involving alleged criminal conduct should first be reported to local law enforcement. Notary complaints cannot be submitted anonymously and are public records subject to disclosure under Ohio Public Records Law.
Notary Public Complaint
Business Services Division
Instructions
You must include the notary's name.
You must upload the notarized document using the Plus sign Add File option on the form below.
Include the entire document.
Documents that are illegible or incomplete will result in delayed processing or rejection of the complaint.
Do NOT include information that violates HIPAA (including, but not limited to, personally identifiable health information, medical records, or conversations about patient care).
Documents that violate HIPAA will result in delayed processing or rejection of the complaint.