How to Become a Notary Public

A notary public witnesses a person's signature on different types of documents, thereby verifying that the individual did indeed sign the paper of his or her own free will. For this service, the notary receives a fee set by the state.

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Notary Seals
• Notary Stamps
• Notary Applications
• Register For Workshops
• Computers
• Online Career Search

1. Be at least 18 years old and an official resident of the state in which you want to be a notary.

2. Obtain the application for a notary commission from your state or from the nonprofit National Notary Association (NNA). Note that each state has different eligibility criteria for its notaries. Visit the NNA Web site at nationalnotary.org.

3. Be prepared to pay a filing fee and, in most states, to post a bond before assuming the office. Go to the NNA Web site for the individual state fees and bond requirements. Also check the site for your state's requirements on written examinations and the fingerprinting of notaries.

4. Attend a workshop for prospective notaries to gain in-depth information about the law, ethics and special situations. The workshops are usually held in community colleges and universities, and, in some states, in hotels.

5. Send in your application after taking any required tests. Carefully follow instructions.

6. Take your oath of office in front of a notary public after you have been notified by the state that you have been approved to receive a notary commission.

7. Make certain you pay for your bond, if required, within the time specified by your state. Licensed insurance brokers obtain the bonds and help you file your final paperwork.

8. Purchase your official notary seal after you have taken your oath. Many states also require the use of an official inked rubber stamp on documents.

9. Give your business cards to neighborhood businesses, including banks, lawyers and insurance companies. Your notary fees are subject to federal and state income taxes, but not self-employment taxes.

Tips & Warnings

• Write your name on the application exactly as you will sign it as a notary. Any variations are not permitted later on.
• Realize that in Florida, Maine, South Carolina, and West Feliciana Parrish, Louisiana, a notary may perform civil marriages.
• Remember that a notary public has a fixed term in office, the length of which depends on the state. The notary must apply to be reappointed.
• Avoid liability problems as a notary by fully understanding your responsibilities and by never acting in a careless manner.
• You may not become a notary if you are a convicted felon.
• Be aware that dishonesty, immorality, or any civil or criminal offense will result in a suspension from office or disqualification to hold the office.

Who Can Help:

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[Tumerica]

on 1/6/2009 This is a great article. Simple, factual and straight-forward. Perfect!

[jeannedb]

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