What is a Kentucky notary public bond?

Kentucky Notary Statute KRS 423.390 requires individuals file 4-year $1,000 surety bonds as part of the state's notary appointment process. The bond ensures a notary public will act according to guidelines outlined in the Kentucky Notary Public Handbook throughout their commission.

If a notary violates the bond terms during their commission, the surety company would pay valid claims up to the full $1,000 bond amount, which the notary must then reimburse. For example, should a notary overcharge fees for their services or notarize a document without the signers present, those affected could make a claim on the notary's bond to pay for damages.

How much does a Kentucky notary bond cost?

Kentucky notary bonds cost $80 for the state-required 4-year term, which includes $10,000 of errors and omissions insurance coverage. Including additional errors and omissions insurance ensures you are not held personally liable for errors while notarizing documents.

How do you get a notary bond in Kentucky?

Select the errors and omissions insurance package you would like and provide your name and commissioned county as it will appear on your application. Once your payment is submitted, your official bond documents will be delivered to your email.

How fast can I get a notary public bond?

SuretyBonds.com offers instant Kentucky notary surety bond delivery 24/7. Purchase now to receive your official bond delivered in minutes by email.

Who commissions notaries in Kentucky?

The Kentucky Office of the Secretary of State requires notaries public to be legally commissioned before performing services in the state.

What was the most recent update to Kentucky notary bond requirements?

On March 25, 2019, Kentucky passed Senate Bill 114 requiring notaries public to submit a $1,000 surety bond before obtaining a commission from the Secretary of State.

Previously, notaries public were required to have a bond in an amount determined by the county in which they were applying. All notaries must now submit a $1,000 surety bond to the Secretary of State within 30 days of receiving a notary public commission.

This requirement went into effect on January 1, 2020.

How do I update or change my notary public bond form?

If the Kentucky Office of the Secretary of State requires your documentation to be updated for any reason, contact your surety provider. If you purchased your Kentucky notary bond from SuretyBonds.com, email [email protected] to explain the needed change.

The most common changes needed are updating your individual notary name or commissioned county.

How do I renew my notary bond?

Kentucky notary bonds must be renewed whenever the current 4-year notary commission term expires. Once you pay your SuretyBonds.com renewal invoice, a new Kentucky surety bond notary public form will be issued and sent to you.

How do I become a notary in Kentucky?

You must meet the following requirements to qualify for appointment as a notary public.

• Be 18 years old or older
• Live in Kentucky
• Read and write in English
• Have no previous felony convictions

If applying for a special commission, you must be a resident of the county. If you're not a resident of Kentucky, you must be employed in the county in which the application is made.

Buy the required notary seal and other supplies and submit your completed notary application online. You can also submit your paperwork by sending your paperwork and a $10 fee processing fee to the following address.

Notary Commissions
P.O. Box 821
Frankfort, KY 40602-0821

After the SOS approves your application, you'll receive a written notice to complete your appointment within 30 days. Visit your county clerk’s office to take your oath of office and file your bond.

Learn How to get a Kentucky notary public license by reviewing our comprehensive guide.

How do I perform remote notarizations?

Actively commissioned notaries public can be authorized to perform remote notarizations by notifying the Kentucky Secretary of State by sending the following information to [email protected].

• Remote online notarization form
• Copy of your $1,000 surety bond
• Sample of your digital certificate