Pennsylvania Notary Bond Guide
If you're applying for a notary commission in Pennsylvania, you need to file a surety bond. Read this guide to learn the ins and outs of the bonding process.
Bond Overview
- Purpose: To protect the public and the state from illegal notary actions
- Who Needs It: Any person applying to become a public notary in Pennsylvania
- Regulating Body: The Pennsylvania Secretary of State
- Required Amount: $10,000 plus optional E&O coverage
- Premium Rate: $50 for the 4-year term
What is a Pennsylvania notary bond?
Pennsylvania Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts Section 321.D requires individuals file a 4-year $10,000 surety bond as part of the state's notary appointment application. Pennsylvania notary bonds provide protection to the public in the event of notary misconduct. The surety company issuing the bond will pay valid claims up to the $10,000 bond amount due to fraudulent or otherwise unlawful notarial acts. The bonded notary must reimburse the surety company for any claims paid.
How much does a Pennsylvania notary bond cost?
Pennsylvania notary bonds cost $50 for the state-required 4-year term. You can also add errors and omissions insurance coverage to ensure you aren't held liable for notary errors.
How do you get a notary bond in Pennsylvania?
You can purchase your Pennsylvania notary bond online 24/7. Select the EO insurance coverage amount you would like and provide the following information as it will appear on the notary application for Department of State approval.
- name
- county you reside in
- county you're applying in
- commission number
After your order is processed, you'll receive your official bond based on the delivery method you choose during checkout.
How fast can I get a notary public bond?
You'll receive a copy of your bond instantly by email once you've submitted payment. The state requires your official bond be delivered to you, so select overnight shipping if you're in a rush. Orders submitted by 4 PM CST Monday-Friday are typically shipped same-day.
Who commissions notaries in Pennsylvania?
The Pennsylvania Department of State Bureau of Notaries, Commissions, and Legislation enforces notary commission requirements for notaries public. The DOS manages application forms for appointments and commissions, including the notary surety bond requirement.
How long will your Pennsylvania notary commission be good for?
A Pennsylvania notary commission is valid for 4 years from the date of appointment. The bond runs concurrently with the notary's commission. If the notary public surety bond needs to be canceled, the surety company must give the Department of State at least 30 days' notice.
How do I update or change my notary public bond form?
If the Department of State requests any changes to your notary surety bond documentation, contact your surety provider. If you purchased your bond from SuretyBonds.com, email [email protected] to explain the needed change.
The most common changes needed include updating your individual notary name or commissioned county.
How do I renew my notary public surety bond?
Pennsylvania notary bonds must be renewed once the current 4-year term ends. Simply pay your SuretyBonds.com renewal invoice, and your new bond will be delivered for your notary commission renewal term.
What are the requirements to become a Pennsylvania notary?
To become a Pennsylvania notary public, you must meet the following requirements.
- be at least 18 years old
- be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
- live or work in Pennsylvania
- read and write in English
- not be disqualified to receive a commission because of character, criminal convictions or prior sanctions
- complete at least 3 hours of approved notary education
- pass the Pearson VUE examination
Learn How to get a Pennsylvania notary license by reviewing our comprehensive guide.
How do I become a notary in Pennsylvania?
The Department of State encourages initial applications to be completed online. However, if you don't want to apply online, you can download the paper application form and complete it by hand along with your $42 notary fee. Mail your paper application, payment, and proof of education to:
Department of State
Bureau of Commissions, Elections and Legislation
201 North Office Building
Harrisburg, PA 17120-0029
Once the Department of State determines you've fulfilled the requirements, you'll be notified of your appointment. Within 45 days of your appointment, you must complete the following steps.
- Purchase and file a $10,000 surety bond.
- Register your signature with the prothonotary of the county where the office is located.
- Take and subscribe the constitutional oath of office.
- Record the bond, commission, and oath of office in the recorder of deeds office.
