How to Fill Out the Journal (15 min) – thumbprint not always required. Required for Deeds, quitclaim deed, deed of trust, real property or Power of attorney. Best to get a thumbprint every time but for the test these are required. I fyou don’t don’t get the thumbprint it is a $2,5000 fine. Exception – deed of reconveyance or Trusteee’s deed don’t need thumbprint. Every document must have a separate line for each signature – esp loan documents. Must write everything out again. Cannot use “” or same For credible witness write both name. Make a note that Doc is credible witness, not signer. BOTH must sign journal. Signer, then under notes Witness. Thumbprint is the SIGNER, not the witness. .