Washington Notary 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 Washington
- Regulating Body: The Washington Department of Licensing, Notary Public Program
- Bond Amount: $10,000
- Premium Price: $40–$115 based on E&O coverage
What Is a Washington Notary Bond?
A Washington notary bond ensures that notaries follow the law or act ethically. By filing this surety bond, you agree to perform all duties as required by law. The bond protects your clients from financial loss if you fail to do so.
How Much Do Notary Bonds Cost?
Washington notary bonds cost a low, flat rate of $40 for four years of coverage.
Want extra protection? Add on optional errors and omissions coverage for just $5–$75 more. Buy your bond in minutes.
SuretyBonds.com offers the lowest available rates from our nationwide provider network with no added fees.
Bond and E&O Requirements for Washington Notaries
All notaries in Washington need $10,000 bond coverage and can choose optional E&O coverage. Here’s how they work together:
- Surety Bond: Can reimburse clients for notary malpractice or serious professional mistakes
- E&O Insurance: Protects a notary if a client takes legal action due to accidental errors or omissions
Put simply: the notary bond protects your clients while E&O insurance protects you.
How Do I Get My Notary Bond?
You can get your Washington notary bond in minutes using the form on this page. It only takes three steps:
- Select your E&O coverage option.
- Enter your name and address.
- Provide payment details.
We’ll email you the bond right after you check out. If you don’t see the bond in 5–10 minutes, please check your junk folder.
How Does a Notary Bond Work?
When you file a Washington notary bond, you enter a legally-binding contract with the Department of Licensing and the surety provider backing the bond.
If you break the bond terms, anyone harmed can file a claim on the bond. If a claim is valid, the surety reimburses the damages up to the bond amount.
How Do I Renew My Notary Bond?
Washington notary bonds last for four years. If you renew your notary commission, you’ll also need to renew the surety bond.
We’ll send out helpful reminders during the renewal period. To extend your bond term, just pay the renewal premium. We’ll issue a new bond for you to file with the DOL.
Can I Make Changes to My Bond?
If you need to update information on your bond form like a name or address, contact your surety company. You can reach us at [email protected] with the change request.
When possible, we issue free bond rider forms to amend existing bond forms.
How Do I Become a Notary Public in Washington?
The Washington Department of Licensing, Notary Public Commission regulates notary commissions. To be eligible, you’ll need to meet these requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be fluent in English
- Reside or work in Washington
You can apply online or with a mail-in application. Learn all the steps to get a Washington notary commission here in our complete guide.
