May a notary notarize a document in which the notary has a personal financial or beneficial interest?

A notary must remain an impartial witness, so notarizing a document in which the notary has a direct financial or beneficial interest is a prohibited conflict of interest. For example, a notary should not notarize a document if they are a party to it, would gain financially from the transaction beyond their authorized notary fee, or are named to receive a benefit. The notary's role is to verify identity and willingness impartially, which is impossible if they stand to gain. When such a conflict exists, the notary must decline and direct the signer to a disinterested notary. Maintaining impartiality is central to the office.