Notary Bond Requirements by State
Every state requires notaries to purchase a surety bond before they can begin performing notarial acts. The bond amount and cost vary by state. Here is what you need to know.
Bond Amounts by State
| State | Bond Amount | Annual Cost | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $15,000 | $40 - $100 | Highest bond requirement among active states |
| Florida | $7,500 | $30 - $40 | Standard bond; $25,000 for RON notaries |
| Illinois | $5,000 | $25 - $50 | Low bond requirement; $25,000 for electronic notaries |
| New York | None | N/A | No bond required - one of the few states without a bond requirement |
| Texas | $10,000 | $30 - $60 | Standard bond requirement |
How a Notary Bond Works
Notary purchases the bond
You pay a premium (a fraction of the bond amount) to a surety company. This is typically $25-$100 per year.
Bond is filed with the state
The bond is filed with the commissioning authority (Secretary of State or county clerk) as part of your notary application.
Public is protected
If the notary makes an error or commits misconduct that causes financial harm, the affected person can file a claim against the bond.
Surety pays the claim
The surety company pays valid claims up to the bond amount. The surety then seeks reimbursement from the notary.
Notary Bond vs. E&O Insurance
Surety Bond
- Required by law
- Protects the public
- Notary must repay claims
- Covers notary misconduct
- Filed with the state
E&O Insurance
- Optional (but recommended)
- Protects the notary
- Insurance company pays claims
- Covers honest mistakes and errors
- Purchased from insurance provider
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a notary surety bond?
A notary surety bond is a financial guarantee that protects the public against errors, misconduct, or fraud committed by a notary. If the notary causes financial harm, the affected person can file a claim against the bond to recover damages.
Does the bond protect the notary?
No. The bond protects the public, not the notary. If a claim is paid out, the bond company will seek reimbursement from the notary. For personal protection, notaries should purchase Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance separately.
How much does a notary bond cost?
Annual bond costs range from $25-$100 depending on the bond amount and your credit history. California ($15,000 bond) costs $40-$100/year. Texas ($10,000) costs $30-$60/year. Illinois ($5,000) costs $25-$50/year. Florida and New York do not require notary bonds.
Where can I buy a notary bond?
Notary bonds are available from surety bond companies, insurance agencies, and online notary supply providers. Many offer instant online approval and delivery. Common providers include Notary Rotary, American Association of Notaries, and National Notary Association.
Related Guides & Resources
Are you a notary?
Get found by people searching in your area. Claim your free listing, then upgrade for priority placement and lead tracking.
Free forever. Premium from $9/mo (founder pricing).