Washington Notary Bond Guide
If you're applying for a notary commission in Washington, 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 Washington
- Regulating Body: The Washington Department of Licensing
- Required Amount: $10,000 plus optional E&O coverage
- Premium Rate: $40 for the 4-year term
What is a Washington notary public bond?
The Revised Code of Washington 42.45.200 requires individuals to file $10,000 surety bonds as part of the notary public application process. Washington notary public bonds prohibit notaries from performing certain acts such deliberately notarizing inaccurate information or authorizing fraudulent documents that benefit the notary in some way.
If a notary fails to follow RCS Code rules and regulations, a claim can be filed against the bond. If the claim is found to be valid in a court of law, the surety company will compensate harmed parties for financial losses up to the full bond amount. The notary must reimburse the surety for damages paid out.
How much does a Washington notary bond cost?
Washington notary bonds cost $40 for the state-required 4-year term. Additional errors and omissions insurance packages are available to protect you from being held personally liable for mistakes made while notarizing documents.
How do you get a notary bond in Washington state?
To get a notary bond, select the errors and omissions package you would like and provide the following information to buy your bond securely online in minutes.
- name
- address
- county
Once your payment is received, your official bond documents will be delivered to your email instantly.
How fast can I get a notary public surety bond in Washington?
SuretyBonds.com offers instant Washington notary surety bond delivery 24/7. Purchase now to receive your official bond delivered in minutes by email.
Who needs a Washington state notary public bond?
Washington state law requires individuals applying for a notary public commission to purchase and file a $10,000 surety bond before receiving their commission.
Who regulates commissions for notaries in Washington?
The Washington State Department of Licensing Notary Public Commission enforces notary commission and bond requirements for notaries in the state.
How long will your Washington state notary commission be valid?
Your Washington state notary commission expires every 4 years and will remain valid as long as you complete the renewal process before your current commission expires.
How do I update or change my notary public bond form?
If the Department of Licensing Notary Public Program requires your surety bond documentation to be updated for any reason, contact your surety provider. If you purchased your bond from SuretyBonds.com, email [email protected] to explain the needed change.
The most common changes for these bonds include:
- notary public name
- notary address
- notary oath commissioned county
How do I renew my notary surety bond in Washington?
Washington notary public surety bonds must be renewed whenever the current 4-year term expires. Once you pay your SuretyBonds.com renewal invoice, a new surety bond form will be issued and sent to you.
What are the requirements to become a notary public in Washington?
Learn How to Get a Washington Notary Commission by reviewing our comprehensive guide.
To become a notary public in Washington, applicants must meet the following requirements.
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have the ability to read and write English
- Either reside or work in Washington
To apply for a notary public commission in Washington by mail, the following documents must be provided.
- Completed and signed application
- $30 check or money order payable to Department of Licensing ($45 to add electronic notary endorsement)
- Copy of signed $10,000 surety bond
The notary application can be submitted via mail to:
Notary Public Program Department of Licensing
PO Box 3777
Seattle, WA 98124-3777
Once individuals receive state approval for their commission, they must get a notary stamp or seal, keep a journal of all notarial acts, and stay current on notary laws and regulations.
How do Washington state notaries become a remote or electronic notary?
First, active notaries must apply for an electronic notary endorsement. Electronic notary endorsements can be added at any time online or by mail. To apply by mail, applicants must provide the following.
- Notary Public Electronic Notarization Endorsement Application
- $15 nonrefundable check or money order payable to the Department of Licensing
- name of the electronic notary software to be used
Individuals with an electronic notary endorsement may request a remote notary commission by emailing the Department of Licensing with the name of the remote notarization software the notary wishes to use.
How do you renew your notary commission in Washington?
Notary commissions can be renewed up to 120 days before expiration by providing the following.
- Completed Notary Public Commission Renewal Application
- $30 check or money order payable to Department of Licensing ($45 to add electronic notary endorsement)
- Copy of signed $10,000 surety bond
You can renew your notary commission with the state directly online. To renew a commission by mail, send the documents to:
Notary Public Program Department of Licensing
PO Box 3777
Seattle, WA 98124-3777
