Notary Public Underwriters Blog
Do Notaries Need E&O Insurance? The Truth Every Notary Should Know
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- Published: November 24, 2025
When becoming a notary public, you’ll hear a lot about bonds, supplies, and Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance. But what exactly is notary E&O insurance, and do you really need it? Let’s uncover the truth.
What Is Notary E&O Insurance?
Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance is a type of professional liability coverage designed to protect you as a notary public if a mistake or unintentional oversight leads to financial loss for your client. Unlike your notary bond—which protects the public—E&O insurance is designed to protect you up to the amount of your chosen policy.
Is Notary E&O Insurance Required by Law?
No. Notary E&O insurance is not required by law in any state. What is required, in most states, is a notary bond. The bond ensures that if you make an error or commit misconduct, the injured party has a financial remedy. However, if a claim is paid out on your bond, you are personally responsible for reimbursing the bonding company.
E&O insurance, on the other hand, shields you from having to pay those costs out of pocket.
Can A Notary Work Without Notary E&O Insurance?
Technically, yes—you can function as a notary without E&O insurance. But here’s the reality: even the most careful notary can make a mistake, and lawsuits can happen even when you did everything correctly. Without E&O insurance, you may find yourself paying legal fees and damages on your own.
Think of E&O insurance as your financial safety net.
Why Are There Different Policy Limits?
You’ll notice that E&O insurance comes with different coverage amounts, usually ranging from $10,000 to $100,000. These limits determine how much the insurance company will pay for a claim.
The right amount for you depends on:
- The volume of notarizations you perform – High-volume notaries may want higher coverage.
- The type of documents you handle – Real estate, business contracts, and financial documents often carry higher risks.
- Your peace of mind – Some notaries choose larger policies simply to feel more secure.
Why Notary E&O Insurance Matters
At the end of the day, E&O insurance is about protecting your finances and your future. While it isn’t legally required, it’s a wise investment for notaries who want complete protection against the unexpected.
The Bottom Line
Your notary bond protects the public. E&O insurance protects you. Without it, one small mistake—or even a claim you had no control over—could cost you thousands. With it, you can notarize with confidence, knowing you’re covered.
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