Learn How to Become a Notary Signing Agent

Increase your expertise and income by becoming a Notary Signing Agent. It is one more step toward becoming a better Notary and to understanding more of the business—while adding to your income. Many mobile Notaries use it as supplementary income—on average you can earn between $50 and $150 per closing, depending on how you receive loan signing appointments (primarily from signing services or direct work). 

 

 

A “Notary Signing Agent” is a duly commissioned or appointed Notary Public who has been trained to present loan documents to a borrower, show where the borrower must sign or initial, perform any necessary notarizations, and promptly send the entire document package to its destination for processing.

Lenders and title/escrow companies across America trust trained and background-screened Notary Signing Agents to escort borrowers through the loan signing process. Notary Signing Agents are indispensable contributors to successful loan closings.

 

What are the minimum qualifications to act as a Notary Signing Agent?

While each lender, title company and signing service's policies may differ, the industry strongly advises that you complete all of the steps below to enhance your chances of working with several companies.

• A currently commissioned Notary Public in a state that does not prohibit Signing Agent activity.
  • At least one year of experience as a Notary Public is recommended.
• Completion of a training course covering Notary Signing Agent duties, responsibilities and limitations.
• An initial background screening that meets Signing Professionals Workgroup standards (annually renewed).
• Carry Errors & Omissions Insurance for your basic notarial duties, and for Signing Agent work.

It is also recommended that Notaries are supported by a membership in a professional Notary organization that provides information on lawful performance of notarial acts and best practices.

Do any states restrict or limit Notary Signing Agent activity?

Yes, click here for a list of states that impose restrictions or limitations on Notaries Public performing Signing Agent work.

How important is standard Notary training/knowledge to a Notary Signing Agent?

It is impossible to function as a Signing Agent without a strong understanding of the fundamentals of notarization and your state’s Notary laws and administrative rules. Notary Signing Agents can be expected or pressured to complete notarizations that may cause the Notary to violate his/her/their state Notary law. Knowing how to notarize expertly, and when to say “No,” are extremely important.

Do I have to obtain a Notary commission before taking the Notary Signing Agent Training Course?

No—you may take the course and apply at the same time. You may not act as a Notary or a Notary Signing Agent until you have been officially commissioned or appointed by your state commissioning officer. An active Notary commission is required to take the American Society of Notaries certification exam (included with the Notary Signing Agent Training Course).

What will I learn from the Notary Signing Agent Training Course?

Our course covers the all-important fundamentals of notarial practice, the role of Notary Signing Agents, essential tools and business structure, insurance needs, marketing; receiving and setting loan document signing appointments, presenting loan documents, sending signed documents to their destination, keeping records; invoicing for services, and more.

What is “certification”?

“Certification” indicates that the individual has obtained the training in notarization skills and Signing Agent practices needed to perform competently as a Notary Public Signing Agent.

Why do I need to be a “certified” Notary Signing Agent?

Certification is an industry standard, one required by many if not most of the companies that hire Notary Signing Agents.

Does my Notary Signing Agent certification expire?

Yes, because loan document signing practices and procedures can change at any time. Requirements of Notary law or administrative rules can also change annually or sooner. The American Society of Notaries’ Notary Signing Agent certification expires after one year. Retraining and reexamination are necessary to renew the certification for another year.

Why do I need Signing Agent Errors & Omissions Insurance?

As a Signing Agent, you will have unlimited personal liability for losses caused by any mistake that occurred during the signing. The Notary Errors & Omission Insurance only provides coverage for the notarizations in a loan package. It will NOT cover acts unrelated to notarizations. This is why you should consider obtaining Signing Agent Errors & Omissions Insurance. This type of policy is designed to fill the gaps not covered by Notary Public Errors & Omissions Insurance. To learn more about this policy's coverage, click here.

Do I need a Notary E&O policy in addition to Signing Agent E&O?

If you are also performing notarizations outside of your duties as a Notary Signing Agent, you should carry traditional Notary Errors & Omissions Insurance.

Why do I need a background check, and what records are searched?

This is a requirement of mortgage lenders, because by law they must guard the privacy of every borrower’s personal information.  That duty requires lenders to ensure that all parties with access to a borrower’s personal information are appropriately screened, including Notary Signing Agents.  A background check for Notary Signing Agents will include or check:  Social Security Number Trace, National Criminal Database, Sex Offender Registry, Terrorist Watch List, County Criminal Court Search, Federal Criminal Court Search, Wants/Warrants Search, Employment Verifications, and Education Verification.

How long does background screening take?

From registration for a background screening to obtaining the results, the process takes approximately 5-7 days.  (This can vary by background screening provider.)

How far back (previous years) is my background screened?

Generally, from 7 to 10 years into your previous history, depending on applicable laws in your state of residence.

How often must a Notary Signing Agent be background-screened?

The current standard is once per year.

Can I dispute a result in my background screening that I think is incorrect?

Yes – the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) entitles a person to dispute background screening results.  Any reputable background screening provider will offer a dispute process.

Who hires Notary Signing Agents?

Assignments to work as a Notary Signing Agent come mostly from signing services, title/escrow companies, and lenders. Most new Notary Signing Agents register with or align themselves with signing services. These services receive loan signing opportunities from various title/escrow companies and lenders, and maintain their own registry of Notary Signing Agents who will perform those signings. The signing service collects fees for loan signings and pays the officiating Notary Signing Agent. Some well-established Notary Signing Agents receive assignments directly from title/escrow companies and lenders, and are paid directly by these parties.

How are Notary Signing Agents compensated?

See “Who hires Notary Signing Agents?” above.  

Are my Signing Agent earnings taxable?

Your Signing Agent earnings must be accurately tracked and reported as income.

Change of Name or Address

Do I notify the state of Florida of a name change?

I’m a Florida notary public, what must I do if I change my address?

What should I do with my active commission, if I have moved out of the State of Florida?

I got married several months ago and changed my name. How do I get a new Florida notary stamp?

 

Do I notify the state of Florida of a name change?

Yes. Florida law requires you to obtain an amended commission within 60 days of the change of your legal name. If Notary Public Underwriters is your notary bonding agency, please contact our Customer Care Team to request a name change application form.

 

 

I’m a Florida notary public, what must I do if I change my address?

You must notify the Florida Secretary of State in writing of any change in your residence or business address or telephone number within 60 days of the change. You may download the Address Change Form and email it to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to notify us of the change and file it with the State of Florida. 

 

 

What should I do with my active commission if I have moved out of the State of Florida?

If you have moved out of the State of Florida, unfortunately you are no longer able to continue your Florida notary commission. You will need to contact the Governor’s office to resign your commission. Please note: Whenever you resign a notary commission, if you ever apply for a notary commission in Florida again, the Governor’s office will need to review your application before approving, which may cause delays.

 

 

I got married several months ago and changed my name. How do I get a new Florida notary stamp?

If you have legally changed your name, you will need to complete an amended commission request and submit it to your bonding agency. Florida law requires you to obtain an amended commission within 60 days of the change of your legal name. If Notary Public Underwriters is your notary bonding agency, please contact our Customer Care Team to request a name change application form.

 

 

 If you don't see your question listed above, please contact our Customer Care Team. We'd love to assist you.

Notary Acts

What does it mean to “notarize a signature”?

What notarial acts am I authorized to perform as a Florida notary public?

Am I allowed to refuse a notarization in the State of Florida?

Can I notarize a paper that has been made out to me?

May I perform a notarization when I am a party to the transaction?

Can I perform a notarization for a family member?

My husband is a Residential Contractor. Occasionally he needs forms notarized for his business. I am a Florida notary public. Am I allowed to notarize these forms for his construction company?

Can a Florida notary public notarize a photograph?

May I help a friend fill out immigration papers?

I am a Florida notary public, may I assist a client with legal documents?

May I notarize my own signature?

May I charge a fee for my Florida notary services?

Are Florida notary fees considered taxable income?

Am I required to keep a record of my notarial acts in the state of Florida?

Why should I keep a record book?

How do I limit my liability as a Florida notary public?

Do I have any liability as a Florida notary public?

What can a Florida notary public charge for officiating a marriage ceremony?

What wording must be included in a marriage ceremony performed by a Florida notary public?

Is just a notary stamp sufficient to notarize a document in the state of Florida, or is a raised seal (making an impression) also required?

How old do witnesses have to be to sign the marriage license in the State of Florida?

What is the difference between an Oath and an Acknowledgment?

How do I administer an oath for a document?

How do I take an acknowledgment?

Are Florida notaries allowed to perform marriage ceremonies?

Is a Florida marriage license good in any Florida county?

When officiating a marriage ceremony in the state of Florida, what should I do with the marriage license?

May a Florida notary public perform a marriage ceremony for a family member?

May I notarize a signature of a blind person?

What is the venue on a Florida notarial certificate?

What are the steps for performing a notarization?

What should I do if a signer objects due to religion?

 

 

 

What does it mean to “notarize a signature”? 

 “Notarize a signature” is a generic phrase used when administering an oath or taking an acknowledgment, the two most common notarial acts.

 

 

What notarial acts am I authorized to perform as a Florida notary public?

The main duties of Florida notaries public are to administer oaths and take acknowledgments. Florida notaries may also make attested photocopies of certain documents, solemnize marriage, verify vehicle identification numbers on official forms transferring title, and certify the contents of safe deposit boxes for nonpayment of rental fees. 

 

 

Am I allowed to refuse a notarization in the State of Florida? 

Yes, if proceeding with notarization would cause you to commit a prohibited act, or if any of the required elements/criteria for performance of a proper Florida notarization are missing. Situations that may require you to refuse include when you doubt that the signer is competent or willing to execute the document; or you are being asked to bend a rule of notarization such as requiring the signer to be present before you; or the document presented for notarization is clearly incomplete.

 

If you are an employee-notary, your employer controls how you manage your time and tasks while on the job, so you may need to refuse a notarization requested during business hours. If you must refuse for this reason, you may offer to perform the notarization during non-work hours.

 

Use your best judgment, and always know and follow notarial law, when weighing whether you should refuse a notarization. 

 

 

Can I notarize a paper that has been made out to me?

According to Florida Chapter 117, a Florida notary public may not notarize a signature on a document if the Florida notary has a financial interest in or is a party to the underlying transaction. If the document has your name on it by mistake, the signer will need to obtain an updated version of the document with your name removed. 

 

 

May I perform a notarization when I am a party to the transaction? 

No. If you are a party to the transaction or if you have a financial and/or beneficial interest in the transaction, you may NOT be the notary for this transaction. You would not be impartial, and the transaction could be deemed unlawful or unenforceable. 

 

 

Can I perform a notarization for a family member?

Florida notary law only specifically dictates you cannot notarize a signature for a spouse, son, daughter, mother or father. However, Notary Public Underwriters recommends you DO NOT complete a notarial act for ANY member of your family, including in-laws. It is difficult to sustain your notarial duty as an impartial witness for a family member.

 

 

My husband is a Residential Contractor. Occasionally he needs forms notarized for his business. I am a Florida notary public. Am I allowed to notarize these forms for his construction company?

No. As a Florida notary public one of your main objectives is to be an impartial, unbiased witness. Florida law prohibits a notary from completing a notarization for their spouse, parents or children. If you complete the notarization, it may be seen as void and legal problems may arise. Your husband will need to find another Florida notary to complete his notarization. 

 

 

Can a Florida notary public notarize a photograph?

No. This is not an authorized duty of a Florida notary. An alternative would be to notarize the signature of a person who is willing to certify the authenticity of the photograph in a sworn statement. 

 

 

May I help a friend fill out immigration papers?
No. Only attorneys or qualified immigration specialists may perform these duties. 

 

 

I am a Florida notary public, may I assist a client with legal documents?

No, not unless you are an attorney licensed to practice law in the state of Florida. Furthermore, you may not explain the contents of a document or give any advice about the document. If you do, you may be found guilty of the unauthorized practice of law. 

 

 

May I notarize my own signature? 

No. Notarizing your own signature violates the requirement for impartiality. Violation of this prohibition is a felony crime. 

 

 

May I charge a fee for my Florida notary services? 

Yes. The state of Florida allows you to charge a maximum fee of $10.00 per notary act. You may charge $30.00 to perform a marriage ceremony in Florida. If you charge a higher fee than prescribed by law, the Governor may suspend your commission. Florida law does not address miscellaneous travel fees for notarial acts. Without the guidance of any rule, Florida notaries are allowed to charge a travel fee as long as the signer is made aware prior to the travel and the transaction occurring. Travel fees are not considered notary fees. They should be billed separately from any fee for notary service. While travel fees may appear on the same invoice as notarial fees, they should be presented as a separate line-item to avoid confusion.

 

 

Are Florida notary fees considered taxable income? 

Yes, fees collected while performing your duties as a Florida Notary Public are considered taxable income. A good way to keep up with your Florida notary fees is to record the amount charged for each notarization in your Florida notary record book. It is a good idea to consult your tax advisor for specific information about reporting Florida notary fees as income. 

 

 

Am I required to keep a record of my notarial acts in the state of Florida?

No. Florida law does not require Florida notaries to keep a record book. However, the Florida Governor’s Office recommends notaries keep a record of all official notarial acts in a journal or record book. Although not required, you should record at least the following information: the date of the notarial act, the type of act performed, the type of document, the name, address and signature of each person whose signature was notarized, and any special notes or comments about the notarization. Our Florida notary public record book complies with the suggestions of the Governor’s Office for record keeping. 

 

 

Why should I keep a record book? 

Record books are an inexpensive way to keep a record of every notarization you perform. There are several advantages, including:

 

--A record book can serve as a check-list of the steps of notarization.

--A record book may protect you against a claim of negligence or impropriety.

--A record book may help prove you notarized a document when there is a question about your signature or when the notarial certificate is destroyed or marred in some way.

--A record book can refresh your memory about a notarization you do not recall.

--A record book is reliable as evidence in court if you have to testify about a notarization.

--A record book not only protects you, but may also protect your customer and your employer.

--A record book is a great tool to calculate fees collected for notarial services, so you may accurately report your income to the IRS. 

 

 

How do I limit my liability as a Florida notary public?

To limit your liability as a Florida notary public, know and follow Florida notary laws, take responsibility for your own Florida notary education, keep informed about Florida notary law changes, never make any exceptions for anyone, use reasonable care and common sense in performing your notarial duties, carry Errors & Omissions Insurance and keep a Florida notary record book. 

 

 

Do I have any liability as a Florida notary public?

Yes. The public counts on Florida notaries to perform their duties properly. By making an error on a notarization, you could cause someone to lose their property or be responsible for a multi-million dollar transaction being voided. As a result, a court could find you liable for the loss and enter a judgment against you. Most surety companies demand repayment if they pay a claim against your notary bond. In addition, whatever your bond does not pay, you would be liable for. 

 

 

What can a Florida notary public charge for officiating a marriage ceremony?

The state of Florida allows a Florida notary public to charge $30.00 to perform a marriage ceremony. If you charge a higher fee than prescribed by law, the Governor may suspend your commission. 

 

Florida law does not address miscellaneous travel fees for notarial acts. Without the guidance of any rule, Florida notaries are allowed to charge a travel fee as long as the signer is made aware prior to the travel and the transaction occurring. Travel fees are not considered notary fees. They should be billed separately from any fee for notary service. While travel fees may appear on the same invoice as notarial fees, they should be presented as a separate line-item to avoid confusion. 

 

 

What wording must be included in a marriage ceremony performed by a Florida notary public?

The couple can choose the ceremony script. They can even personalize it as long as there is a verbal commitment made by each party to the other party in the presence of the Florida notary public. Our Marriage Kit includes sample ceremonies, making your job easier! 

 

 

Is just a notary stamp sufficient to notarize a document in the state of Florida, or is a raised seal (making an impression) also required?

The primary notarial tool in the state of Florida is your Florida notary stamp. You may use an embosser (to make the raised seal), if you wish, but it MUST be used in conjunction with your Florida notary stamp. It cannot be used in replacement of the notary stamp and is only recognized as decoration. 

 

 

How old do witnesses have to be to sign the marriage license in the State of Florida?

Witnesses for a Florida marriage license are not required by law; however, it is recommended. Witnesses are further proof the ceremony took place.  Any witnesses should sign the Florida notary public's record book. Notary Public Underwriters recommends the witnesses be 18 years of age or older, but since the witness signatures are not being notarized, there is no age requirement. Witnesses may need to be available in the future should testimony be required. 

 

What is the difference between an Oath and an Acknowledgment?

With an Oath, the affiant is swearing to the content of a document. With an Acknowledgment, the affiant is acknowledging that he/she did sign the document, willingly and for purpose stated within the document. 

 

How do I administer an oath for a document?

Assuming the document is ready for notarization and the signer has been satisfactorily identified and is willing to sign the document, you will administer the oath by asking a simple question, “Do you solemnly swear the information contained in this document is the truth, so help you God?” For an oath, you must witness the person signing the document.

*If the document being presented has already been signed, the signer will need to sign the document again, in the presence of a notary. 

 

How do I take an acknowledgment? 

Assuming the document is ready for notarization and the signer has been satisfactorily identified and is willing to sign the document, you take the signer’s acknowledgement by asking a simple question: “Do you acknowledge and declare this is your signature, you understand this document, and you willingly signed the document for the purposes stated herein?” 

 

Are Florida notaries allowed to perform marriage ceremonies?

Yes. Florida notaries public are authorized to perform marriage ceremonies if the wedding ceremony takes place in Florida and the couple obtains a valid Florida marriage license prior to the ceremony. 

 

Is a Florida marriage license good in any Florida county?

Yes, a Florida marriage license is valid within any county in the state of Florida. However, after the wedding, the marriage license must be filed with the county Clerk’s Office where it was issued within 10 days of the ceremony. 

 

When officiating a marriage ceremony in the state of Florida, what should I do with the marriage license?

The Florida notary public must get the marriage license from the couple prior to the wedding ceremony. The Florida notary should verify it is valid by checking the effective and expiration dates and confirm it contains the Clerk’s signature and official seal. After the ceremony, you must complete the appropriate section certifying you have joined the couple in marriage. As the performing official, you must return the marriage license to the Clerk’s Office that issued it within 10 days after the ceremony. The Clerk will record the license and send a certified copy to the couple. 

 

May a Florida notary public perform a marriage ceremony for a family member?

Yes. The law permits a Florida notary public to perform a marriage ceremony for a family member because they are not notarizing anyone’s signature on the license. A Florida notary public only certifies that they have performed the marriage ceremony. 

 

May I notarize a signature of a blind person?

Yes. But only if you first read the document to the person and you feel sure about the person’s understanding and willingness to sign. 

 

What is the venue on a Florida notarial certificate?

“State of Florida, County of _____”

 

This notation is called the venue. It is the location of the notarization – not the county where you live or work. 

 

What are the steps for performing a notarization? 

Follow these general steps for every notarization you perform:

 

1. Require the personal appearance of the document signer. Never make an exception!

2. Examine the document to ensure it is complete and contains a properly formatted notarial certificate.

3. Identify the signer, either through your personal acquaintance of the individual or some type of satisfactory evidence, such as a valid driver’s license, passport or another form of acceptable identification listed in the notary law.

4. Enter the transaction into your record book. Although the law does not require it, the Governor’s Office recommends you keep an official record of all your notarial acts.

5. Perform the notarization ceremony. You must communicate verbally with the signer to perform the notarial act. The person usually signs the document at this point.

6. Complete the notarial certificate. Make sure the information is correct and complete. Do not forget to sign and seal the certificate. 

 

What should I do if a signer objects due to religion? 

A legal alternative to an oath is an affirmation. Ask the question: “Do you solemnly affirm under the penalties of perjury the information contained in this document is the truth?”

Notary Public Bond and Seal

What is a Florida notary bond?

Where can I get a Florida notary bond?

How do I file my Florida notary bond?

How much bond coverage does a Florida notary need?

What amount of bond is required in the state of Florida?

How much does a Florida notary bond cost?

How long is my Florida notary bond in effect?

What happens if someone makes a claim against my Florida notary bond?

What should I do if my Florida notary seal is lost or stolen?

May I use the Great Seal of Florida on my Florida notary stamp?

May I use an embosser as my Florida notary seal?

What type of notary seal is required in the State of Florida?

 

 

What is a Florida notary bond?

The Florida notary bond is a type of surety bond issued by an approved surety company to protect the public against any wrongdoing on the part of the Florida notary. The surety company guarantees to the public that you, as a Florida notary public, will perform your duties in accordance with the law, and if you do not, the company will pay any damages caused by the incorrect notarization up to the amount of the bond.

 

 

Where can I get a Florida notary bond?

You must purchase a Florida notary bond from a Florida licensed bonding or insurance company. Notary Public Underwriters handles this process for our customers. Our goal is to make the steps of becoming a Florida notary or renewing your Florida notary commission fast and easy.

 

 

How do I file my Florida notary bond?

If you choose Notary Public Underwriters as your bonding agency, within 24-hours​ of receiving the properly completed forms, we hand deliver your Florida notary bond, along with your Florida notary application to the Secretary of State's office.

 

 

How much bond coverage does a Florida notary need?

Florida notary bonds do not have coverage amounts similar to insurance policies. The bond amount is set by statute through the Florida legislature and is currently set at $7,500.00. Keep in mind, the notary bond only protects the public, not the notary. Notary Errors & Omissions Insurance protects the notary and offers different coverage options.

 

 

What amount of bond is required in the state of Florida?

Florida notary law requires a bond in the amount of $7,500.

 

 

How much does a Florida notary bond cost?

A $7,500, 4-year notary bond in the state of Florida costs $40 through Notary Public Underwriters.

 

 

How long is my Florida notary bond in effect?

A Florida notary bond is effective for the entire 4 years of your Florida notary commission.

 

 

What happens if someone makes a claim against my Florida notary bond?

Your surety company's claim department will investigate the claim. They will contact you to gather information about the transaction in question. They may ask for a copy of your notary journal record for the notarization and any other facts that may help them determine the basis for the claim. A pending claim does not always mean there will be financial loss for the notary. Your surety company may find the claim not to be legitimate, or they may deny the claim. However, if the claim has merit, your surety company will negotiate a settlement or pay the full amount of the bond.

 

IMPORTANT: You may be held responsible for repaying any amount the surety pays to satisfy the claim, including defense costs. Remember, the notary bond protects the public, not the notary. We highly recommend all notaries purchase notary Errors & Omissions Insurance to guard against potential financial loss due to an innocent mistake.

 

 

What should I do if my Florida notary seal is lost or stolen?

If your Florida notary seal is lost, stolen or in the possession of another person, you must notify the Florida Department of State immediately in writing. Your letter should include the last time you used or had your Florida notary seal in your possession. You may email your written letter to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or mail it to Department of State, Division of Corporations, Notary Section, P.O. Box 6327, Tallahassee, FL 32314. Alternatively, you may This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. your letter to us and we can submit it to the Department of State on your behalf. The Department of State will issue you a new notary commission certificate with a new commission number, and notify the bonding agency of the change (be sure to contact your bonding agency to confirm they were notified of the change). Once you receive your new notary commission certificate, you can order a replacement stamp. Just be sure to send a copy of your new certificate so that we can ensure your information is correct.

 

 

May I use the Great Seal of Florida on my Florida notary stamp?

No. Florida Notaries are prohibited from using the Florida state seal.

 

 

May I use an embosser as my Florida notary seal?

No. The official Florida notary seal is a rubber stamp. However, you may use an embossing seal in addition to the rubber notary stamp, as decoration only. Notary Public Underwriters offers both seals in several styles. If you frequently notarize out-of-state or international documents, you may want to purchase an embosser seal, which is readily accepted as the notary standard around the world.

 

 

What type of notary seal is required in the State of Florida?

The official seal for Florida notaries is the rubber stamp. The stamp must contain four elements: the phrase “Notary Public-State of Florida,” your exact commission name, your notary commission number, and the expiration date of your commission. The seal must be affixed with black ink that is photographically reproducible.

 

 If you don't see your question listed above, please contact our Customer Care Team. We'd love to assist you.