
A notary public bond is a small bond your state makes you buy before you can be a notary. It is cheap, it is fast, and Junno Surety can often get it to you the same day.
- Who needs it
- New and renewing notaries in most states
- Typical bond amount
- $5,000 to $15,000, set by your state
- What you pay
- Starts at $50 flat at Junno Surety
- Term
- Matches your commission, often 4 years
- A claim protects
- The public you notarize for
What is a Notary Public Bond?
A notary public bond is a promise backed by a bond company. It protects the people you help, not you. If you make a mistake while you notarize a paper, and that mistake costs someone money, they can file a claim against your bond.
Many people mix this up with E&O insurance. They are not the same. E&O (errors and omissions) insurance protects you. The notary bond protects the public. Your state cares about the public, so it asks for the bond.
Who needs a Notary Public Bond?
Anyone who wants to become a notary public needs one in most states. You usually buy the bond first. Then you send proof to your state. Then the state gives you your commission, which is the official okay to start notarizing.
If you are renewing your commission, you will likely need a fresh bond too. The bond lasts the same number of years as your commission, often four years.
How does a Notary Public Bond work?
Here is how it works, step by step:
- Your state sets the bond amount. It is often $5,000 to $15,000.
- You buy the bond from Junno Surety. The bond amount is not what you pay. You pay a small fee.
- You file the bond with your state and finish your notary application.
- The state gives you your commission and you can start work.
- If you make a notary mistake that hurts someone, they file a claim and the bond company pays them up to the bond amount.
If the bond company pays a claim, you must pay that money back. So always notarize carefully and keep good records.
How much does a Notary Public Bond cost?
At Junno Surety, a notary bond starts at $50 flat. That is our lowest rate. Many other sellers charge $100 or more for the same bond.
The price does not change based on your credit. A notary bond is low risk, so it is one of the cheapest bonds you can buy.
What happens if someone files a claim?
A claim is rare for notaries. But it can happen if you notarize a fake signature or skip a step. If a claim is paid, the bond protects the public, and then you repay the bond company. Good habits, like checking ID every time, keep claims away.
How to get your Notary Public Bond from Junno Surety
Getting bonded with Junno Surety is quick. Tell us your state and how long your commission runs. We send your bond fast, often within the hour. We are a licensed surety agency, so you deal with a real person, not a slow website.
We are a licensed surety bond agency and can often issue your notary public bond the same day. Start your free quote → or call (762) 499-0237.
Things to know about a Notary Public Bond
A notary bond amount can sound scary, but remember two things. First, the bond amount is not your price. You pay a small flat fee, and the bond amount is just the most a claim could pay out. Second, claims are rare. They only happen if you sign or stamp something the wrong way and it hurts someone. Simple habits stop almost every claim. Always check a valid photo ID. Make sure the signer is really there and willing. Keep a journal of what you notarize, even if your state does not require one. Good records are your best friend if a question ever comes up.
Frequently asked questions
Is a notary bond the same as notary insurance?
No. The bond protects the public if you make a mistake. Notary E&O insurance protects you and your own wallet. Many notaries buy both.
How long does a notary bond last?
It usually lasts the same number of years as your notary commission. In many states that is four years.
Will a claim cost me money?
If the bond company pays a claim, you pay that money back to them. The bond pays the public first, then you repay the bond company.
Do I need a bond in every state?
Most states require a notary bond, but a few do not. We will check your state's rule for you before you buy.
Can I get a notary bond with bad credit?
Yes. A notary bond does not check your credit. The price is the same flat low rate no matter your credit score.