By Lisa A. Tyler
National Escrow Administrator

Settlement agents often put themselves and their colleagues in harm's way unknowingly. Sonya Washington, Closing Agent for Cannaday Abstract & Title Co., Inc. in Clinton, Arkansas, was working on an unusual transaction. Read about the transaction in the story entitled "ON parole" to discover who Sonya was really dealing with.

Wondering if your answers to last year's questions regarding 1099–S reporting were accurate? Find out by reading "1099–S poll questions finally answered!" You will discover the correct answers to all 12 questions, as well as how you did compared to your peers.

A notary public is a public official who acts as the unbiased, third–party witness to the identity and signature of the person who comes before the notary for a specific purpose. The practice dates back to ancient Roman times when few people were taught to read and write. A notarius was appointed as a public official to create written documents of agreement or wills, and hold them for safekeeping. Read more in the "HISTORY of notaries."

Be sure to answer the monthly notary question to make certain you understand the tips shared to increase your "notary know how!"

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