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Published: April 28, 2025

Being a commissioned notary public opens the door to a variety of opportunities to build a thriving side business or even a full-time career. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, there are always ways to expand your notary services and attract more clients. Here are a few practical ideas to help you grow your notary business and increase your earning potential.

Expand Your General Notary Services

The easiest way to build a notary business is by starting with general notary services. It requires no extra qualifications beyond your notary commission, making it accessible and straightforward for those getting started.

Mobile Notary Services

One of the most in-demand notary services today is mobile notarization. Many clients appreciate the convenience of having a notary come to their home, office, or a public location. This service is especially helpful for individuals with limited mobility, busy professions, or those with tight schedules. Notaries may charge additional fees* for travel and/or providing basic clerical services, which makes this service not only beneficial to clients but also profitable for the notary.

* Be sure to check your state's notary laws for any state-specific requirements or limitations on charging fees.

Wedding Officiant Services (in states where allowed)

In some states, such as Florida, notaries have the authority to "solemnize" or perform marriage ceremonies. Offering wedding officiant services can be a rewarding and profitable addition to your business, especially during peak wedding seasons. You can market this service through wedding directories, local vendors, and social media platforms.

Specialize in Niche Markets

While general notary services are a great starting point, you can set yourself apart from other notaries by specializing in niche markets. Here are a few specialized areas where notaries can thrive:

Notary Signing Agent (NSA)

One of the most popular and potentially lucrative niches for notaries is becoming a notary signing agent (NSA). A notary signing agent is a notary who specializes in notarizing documents related to real estate transactions. This includes loan documents, refinances, home purchases, and more. This niche requires an additional certification specific to the mortgage industry, along with your standard notary commission. Signing agents are often hired by title companies, escrow officers, and mortgage lenders to ensure that all the documents are signed and notarized correctly.

This type of work comes with a higher earning potential due to the complexity and importance of the documents involved, making it valuable for notaries looking to increase their business. To learn more about what's required to become a notary signing agent, click here.

Remote Online Notarization (RON)

Remote online notarization (RON) allows notaries to perform notarizations remotely, using state-approved audio-video technology. This is especially helpful for clients who can’t meet you in person, such as those living in remote areas or those in urgent need of notarization outside your normal working hours.

While RON offers excellent opportunities, it’s important to note that not all notaries can automatically begin performing remote online notarizations. There are specific state requirements to qualify as a remote online notary, if permitted in your state.

Notarizations for Facilities

Providing notary services for facilities such as hospitals, libraries, and prisons is another way to expand your notary business. Many individuals in these settings require notarizations, but access to a notary can be limited. By offering your services in these environments, you can help fill an important gap in your community while also carving out a unique niche for your business.

Non-Notary Services

Many notaries have found success by offering non-notary services. These services allow you to diversify your business, attract new clients, and increase revenue. Here are a few common non-notary services that many notaries successfully incorporate into their business models:

Mobile Fingerprinting

Fingerprinting is required for many professional license applications, background checks, and employment processes. By offering fingerprinting — whether via ink or digital/live scan, depending on your state — you can tap into a growing demand for this service. It's a great way to establish recurring business.

Apostille Services

Another service to consider is apostille services. While notaries cannot issue apostilles or authentications — only the government official who is authorized to issue them can — you can earn extra income by acting as a facilitator, helping customers submit documents to the appropriate agency.

Field Inspections

Field inspections are another service notaries can offer. These brief, visual inspections are often required by banks, mortgage companies, insurance firms, and other institutions to verify the condition, occupancy, or status of a property.

These inspections are not the same as licensed home inspections for buying or selling real estate. Field/property inspections are usually less technical and involve tasks like:

• Taking photos of the exterior (and sometimes the interior)
• Verifying property condition or occupancy
• Filling out a short form or checklist
• Confirming signage, address, or other details

As a notary public, you have more tools than ever to build a flexible and fulfilling business. Whether you focus on traditional services, embrace mobile or online options, or explore specialized niches and complementary offerings, the possibilities are vast. Start by choosing one or two services that align with your strengths and interests, then expand as your confidence and client base grow. With the right approach and commitment, your notary business can thrive in today’s evolving marketplace.

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Disclaimer: This blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Notaries are responsible for understanding and complying with the laws and regulations specific to their state. Always consult your state’s commissioning authority to ensure compliance before offering any new services.

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