What is the primary requirement for a notary when using a general acknowledgment certificate?

The primary requirement for a notary when using a general acknowledgment certificate is to include the official signature and seal of the notary. This signature and seal serve as a verification that the notary has performed the necessary duties in accordance with the law. It signifies that the individual who signed the document was indeed in the presence of the notary at the time of signing, and that their identity was properly verified. This is essential in establishing the authenticity of the acknowledgment and helps to prevent fraud.

While the other options may involve aspects of notary practices or general documentation, they do not pertain directly to the core requirement of the general acknowledgment certificate. For instance, recording personal information about the notary or including witnesses unrelated to the transaction would not align with the standard requirements for a general acknowledgment, which focuses primarily on verifying and authenticating the signing event through the notary's official marks.