How much will my $500 notary bond cost in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin notary bonds are issued instantly for four years starting at just $20. Select whether or not you wish to include errors and omissions and click Buy Now to purchase a Wisconsin notary bond directly through our site. Errors and omissions coverage ensures you are NOT held personally liable for mistakes made while notarizing documents. Visit our blog for more information on this essential insurance.
The online bond checkout allows you to buy your bond safely and securely. It only takes a few minutes to be on your way to getting bonded as a Wisconsin notary.
| Bond Type | Bond Amount | Cost | |
|---|---|---|---|
| $500 Notary Bond No Errors & Omissions | $500 | $20 | |
| $500 Notary Bond $10,000 Errors and Omissions | $500 | $60 | |
| $500 Notary Bond $20,000 Errors and Omissions | $500 | $80 | |
| $500 Notary Bond $30,000 Errors and Omissions | $500 | $100 |
Why do I need a notary bond in Wisconsin?
The Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions requires that all notaries to submit a $500 bond prior to conducting business in the state.
By posting a surety bond, Wisconsin notaries guarantee that they will faithfully perform all duties commissioned to them. If a notary fails to adhere to the rules and regulations of the state of Wisconsin, the bond protects the state and general public from financial losses resulting from the notary’s negligence or faulty business practices up to the full bond amount. The notary must then reimburse the surety for all damages paid out.
Wisconsin notary bonds must be submitted to the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions. They will run continuously for four years from the effective date. However, if you are licensed to practice law in Wisconsin, you may obtain a permanent notary commission.
The bond must be sent in the same envelope as your complete oath of office, application, and $20 application filing fee.
How to become a notary public in Wisconsin
In addition to posting a surety bond, potential Wisconsin notary publics first must meet the following requirements:
- Minimum 18 years of age
- Resident of the United States
- Minimum equivalent of an eighth grade education
- No unacceptable arrest or convictions records under Wisconsin Statutes
If applicants meet the above requirements, to become a notary public, they then must:
- Pass the Notary Tutorial Exam
- Complete the Wisconsin Notary Online Application
- Purchase an engraved official seal or official rubber stamp
- Submit oath of office form
- Pay $20 filing fee
- Submit your application, exam certificate, bond form, oath of office and the $20 fee to the Notary Records Section of the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions by email or mail.
By Mail:
Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions
4822 Madison Yards Way, North Tower
Madison, WI 53705
Email: [email protected]
How to perform remote notarizations in Wisconsin
All current Wisconsin notaries must be trained on remote notarization standards from an approved technology provider before they’re approved to perform any remote notarizations. Any remote notarization platform used by a notary public must be capable of identify-proofing, credential verification, and recording/storing transactions. The following platforms are approved by the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions:
After completing training with any of the above providers, check that your name appears on the list of Wisconsin notaries authorized to perform remote online notarizations. Because the list is updated weekly, it may take some time for your name to be added. A Wisconsin notary may charge a maximum fee of $25 for a remote notarial act.
Additional Resources
Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions Notary Public Information (PDF)
Four-Year Notary Public Commission Application Instructions