(a) If the department determines that a document filed under this chapter conforms to the filing requirements of this chapter, the department shall

1. (1) mark on the original signed document and on the exact copy the word “filed” and the date and time of the document's acceptance for filing;
2. (2) retain the original signed document in the department's files; and
3. (3) return the exact copy to the person who filed the document or to the person's representative.