Notary public bond

What it is

A notary bond is a surety bond many states require you to post before you can be commissioned as a notary public. It protects the public — if you make a notarial error that causes a covered loss, a claim can be paid on the bond, and you reimburse the surety. It does not protect you; that is what notary E&O is for.

Who requires it

• •Your state — Many states require a notary bond at a set amount (commonly $5,000–$25,000, set by the state) as a condition of your commission.
• •Signing services — Loan-signing and title companies may also require proof of your bond before assigning work.

What drives the price

• •State-set bond amount — Your state sets the required amount and term (often 4 years), which drives the cost.
• •Term length — A longer commission term means a longer bond term, which affects the total.

How surety bonds work

A surety bond is a three-party agreement between you (the principal), the government agency or party requiring it (the obligee), and the surety company that backs it. It is not insurance for you — it protects the obligee and the public. If a valid claim is paid on your bond, you are responsible for reimbursing the surety. Premium is a small percentage of the bond amount and is driven mostly by the required bond amount and the applicant’s credit.

Frequently asked questions