Posted by BarbaraL_CA on 4/30/12 11:42pm
Msg #419423

Would you believe?....

CA SOS Notary Division returned my renewal application to me because when I printed it I guess the printer cut off the bottom so the form number didn't show. They wanted me to fill out a new application and return it along with my 3-hr class certification and picture which they also sent back with the original application. BTW when they get my "corrected" application then they'll send my renewed commission information - background checks, etc. have all been done.

I completed the "corrected" application and returned it along with the class certification and picture as CERTIFIED MAIL. So, I checked on the status of that today to make sure they received it and guess what? The USPS left a note that they couldn't deliver it because there was no one there that could accept it at 10am this morning. What the heck????

I send the SOS Notary Division an email this morning with a link to the USPS information for my CERTIFIED MAIL and asked that they see that they get it ASAP - my commission expires May 23rd. If someone doesn't claim it in 15 days then it gets sent back to me.

Unbelieveable! Next time I'll FedEx it.

Reply by 101livescan on 4/30/12 11:56pm
Msg #419424

I believe it....in 2009 when I renewed, it was a nightmare process. I finally received my commission at the 13th hour on August 30..expiration falls on September 1. It was extremely nerve wracking.

Loss of revenue due to notaries not renewing, positions not filling when people retire or quit...not the same business it was in the HAY DAY!

Hope it all works out.

Reply by snowflake/PA on 5/1/12 9:36am
Msg #419445

Having the same problem getting reappointed in PA and I go through PAN. Thenk goodness I have a couple of months. I started a file folder there was so much paperwork going back and forth and then I was directed to the Dept of State Notary Division who then had to check with "legal" on an issue. Unbelievable. Should not be this difficult. The DOS actually advised I keep a meticulous record of notes and conversations!

Reply by Stephanie Santiago on 5/1/12 10:54am
Msg #419449

Snowflake, it's a good thing you started the process

well in advance of your commission expiration.

Reply by Karla/OR on 5/1/12 12:45am
Msg #419425

I guess they have their rules, but come on, a form number n/m

Reply by BarbaraL_CA on 5/1/12 8:50pm
Msg #419537

Yep! for a form number. App was fine but not w/o form#...

Got the most ridiculous email back from SOS... didn't even address my issue. Here is what it said:

"Dear Ms. Linker:
Thank you for your inquiry.

The returned corrected notary public applications are processed in the order they are received in our office. Our records reflect that your returned application has not yet been processed.

You may continue to check on the status of your application by email to [e-mail address].

Sincerely,
Notary Public Section"

I checked USPS online today and the status said :"DELIVERED" ... YEAH! Hopefully I'll have my renewal info really soon so I can order my stamps and E&O.

Reply by JanetK_CA on 5/1/12 11:03pm
Msg #419543

Question re: following up on status

Barbara, so sorry you're having such a headache with what should be simple stuff. I hope it all gets worked out in plenty of time for you to not have any lag in your business!

I'm about to start on the same trail, as the 30-day window for my commission renewal begins on May 12th. I know I passed the exam a long time ago, but I have no idea how to check on anything else. My background check should be a slam dunk, but I've read here about other people having issues. Does anyone know if there's any way to check on that status? For the rest, I know I have to wait until I get my materials from the SOS office. I just hope I don't run into weird stuff like application numbers not showing up.

It seems that Murphy's Law is alive and well in that office.