How much does a $10,000 Washington state notary bond cost?
A $10,000 Washington notary bond is issued instantly with errors and omissions coverage and costs $45. Additional errors and omissions insurance is also available for those who wish to purchase it. Errors and omissions insurance protects you from being held personally liable for mistakes made while notarizing documents. Visit our blog for more information on this essential coverage.
Simply click Buy Now to visit our secure checkout and purchase your bond online today. It only takes a few minutes to become a bonded notary in Washington.
| Bond Type | Bond Amount | Cost | |
|---|---|---|---|
| $10,000 Notary Bond $5,000 Errors and Omissions | $10,000 | $45 | |
| $10,000 Notary Bond $15,000 Errors and Omissions | $10,000 | $85 | |
| $10,000 Notary Bond $30,000 Errors and Omissions | $10,000 | $115 |
Why do I need a Washington state notary bond?
The Washington Secretary of State requires notaries public to post $10,000 surety bonds to protect the public from any wrongdoings committed by the principal (notary public) while on the job. Specifically, surety bonds prohibit notaries from certain acts, including deliberately signing or evidencing information known to be inaccurate or fraudulent or authorizing documents that benefit the notary in some way.
If the notary breaches the terms of the surety contract or the applicable legislation, a claim can be filed against the bond. If the claim is found to be valid in a court of law, the surety will compensate harmed parties for any financial losses up to the full bond amount. The notary must reimburse the surety for any damages paid out.
How to become a notary public in Washington
To become a notary public in Washington, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a minimum 18 years of age
- Have the ability to read and write English
- Either reside in Washington or have a place of employment or practice in Washington
To apply for a notary public license in Washington by mail, the following documents need to be prepared by the applicant and sent to the address below:
Notary Public Program Department of Licensing
PO Box 3777
Seattle, WA 98124-3777
- Completed and signed application
- Copy of signed $10,000 surety bond
- A check or money order made payable to the Department of Licensing ($30 for commission or $45 for commission with electronic endorsement)
Once individuals receive approval for their commission by the State, they are required to get a notary stamp or seal, keep a journal of all notarial acts, and stay current on notary laws and regulations.
Notary bonds in Washington are valid for four years and must be renewed at the end of each term. These bonds also require applicants to know the specific county in which notarial business will be conducted.
How to become a remote notary in Washington
Becoming a remote notary in Washington State is similar to applying for a notary license. First, active notary publics must apply for an electronic notary endorsement. Electronic notary endorsements can be added at any time online or by mail. Individuals applying via mail must do the following:
- Complete a Notary Public Electronic Notarization Endorsement Application
- Submit a check or money order for a $15 nonrefundable fee made payable to the Department of Licensing
- Disclose the name of your electronic notary software
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.
Additional Resources
Washington State Department of Licensing Notary Public Appointment/Reappointment Application
Washington State Department of Licensing Notary Public Guide
Washington State Department of Licensing Notary Public FAQs
Revised Code of Washington Chapter 42 Section 45 Notaries Public
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