What is a notary?
A notary, or notary public, is someone who makes sure that important documents are signed and sealed correctly. Their main job is to stop fraud by checking the identity and signature of people signing legal papers. This makes the documents trustworthy and legally solid.
Duties and responsibilities
- Verify identity: Notaries make sure that everyone signing a document is really who they say they are.
- Ensure understanding: They check that everyone knows what the document means and agrees to it without being forced.
- Keep records: They also write down the details of their work to keep track of everything.
Notaries are super important because they help keep things honest and fair when people sign important papers. This helps everyone trust the legal system more.
Work environment
Notaries can be found in offices like city buildings, law firms, banks, or their own private offices. Some travel to meet clients wherever it’s needed, making their services super flexible.
Typical work hours
Most notaries work normal office hours, but some might need to be available at night or on weekends depending on what their clients need. Their schedules can really vary, especially if they go to their clients instead of working from just one place.
How to become a notary
Interested in becoming a notary? Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Step 1: Understand the job
A notary is a key player in preventing fraud by acting as an official witness during the signing of legal documents. Make sure you understand what the job involves and if it’s right for you.
Step 2: Meet state requirements
Each state has its own rules for becoming a notary. You’ll generally need to be at least 18 years old, have no criminal record, and live in the state where you want to work. It’s a good idea to check with your local Secretary of State or notary authority to get the exact details.
Step 3: Take a course
Most states require you to complete a course that teaches you the basics about being a notary. These courses are often available online and will help you understand the laws and how to do the job right.
Step 4: Pass the exam
After your course, you’ll need to pass an exam (in states where it’s required). This test makes sure you know your stuff when it comes to notary duties and laws.
Step 5: Apply for your commission
Once you pass the exam, you can apply for your notary commission. You’ll need to send in your results, along with some personal info and maybe a fee, and then wait for everything to be processed.
Step 7: Start working
With your commission in hand, you can start working as a notary! Just make sure to always follow your state’s rules to keep everything legal and official.
How much do notaries make?
Notary salaries will vary by experience, industry, education, location, and organization size. The level of responsibility, number of signings, types of documents handled, and additional certifications or specializations can greatly impact their earnings.
Highest paying industries
- Real Estate: $55,290
- Legal Services: $53,200
- Finance and Insurance: $50,690
- Management of Companies: $49,830
- Government Positions: $45,960
Highest paying states
- California: $61,450
- New York: $58,200
- Massachusetts: $56,790
- Illinois: $54,120
- Washington: $52,940
The average national salary for a Notary is:
$39,980
Types of notaries
Thinking about becoming a notary? Here are some cool directions you can take in this field, each with its own unique focus:
Mobile notary
A mobile notary goes to the client, wherever they are. This is great for people who can’t travel or need a notary outside of normal business hours. It’s all about flexibility and excellent customer service, helping you reach more people who need your help.
Notary signing agent
If you like real estate, consider becoming a notary signing agent. This type of notary specializes in handling and verifying real estate documents, like those needed for buying a house. Knowing the ins and outs of real estate deals and notary rules is key.
Notary for a financial institution
Some notaries work directly for banks or credit unions. Their main job is to notarize financial documents, such as loan agreements. This is a good fit if you’re looking for a steady job in a more traditional setting.
Electronic notary
As things go digital, some notaries are specializing in electronic notarizations. This means authenticating documents online. If you’re tech-savvy and interested in digital services, this could be a cutting-edge area to explore.
Top skills for notaries
Becoming a successful notary involves more than just stamping documents. Here are the essential skills you need to excel:
Detail-oriented
Attention to detail is crucial for notaries. You must carefully check documents to avoid errors that could cause legal problems. It’s all about making sure everything is perfect before any document is finalized.
Integrity
Notaries must be completely trustworthy. You’ll often handle sensitive info, and it’s vital to act honestly and resist any unethical influences. Keeping client information private and conducting your duties with integrity is non-negotiable.
Good communication
You need to explain complex legal terms clearly so everyone understands what they’re signing. Good communication helps ensure that documents are signed knowledgeably and willingly by all parties.
Legal knowledge
A strong understanding of legal processes and terms helps you spot issues that could lead to trouble later on. This knowledge is key to making sure everything you notarize is legally sound.
Organization
With multiple clients and documents, being organized isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. Keeping track of all your appointments and documents ensures that nothing gets lost or overlooked.
Patience
Patience is a virtue, especially when working with clients who may be anxious or unfamiliar with the notarization process. A calm and reassuring approach can make the experience smoother for everyone.
Looking for a new job?
Browse our national database of notary job openings and apply today
Notary career path options
Being a notary opens up a world of opportunities across different industries. Here’s how you can grow and advance in this versatile career:
Start local
Begin by making a name for yourself in your local area. The more people trust you, the more clients you’ll attract. This solid foundation can lead to more complex and higher-paying jobs.
Expand your services
As you gain experience, consider offering mobile notary services or even starting your own notary business. This flexibility can help you reach clients who can’t come to you and opens up a broader market.
Specialize
Focusing on specific areas like real estate, business contracts, or estates can make you the go-to expert in those fields. Specialization can lead to more targeted and often more lucrative work.
Teach and mentor
With lots of experience, you could become a notary public trainer. Teaching new notaries can be rewarding and allows you to share your knowledge and skills with others.
Move into management
If you’re interested in leadership, you could manage a team of notaries at a larger firm. This could involve overseeing notarization processes and strategies on a bigger scale.
Build a business
For those with an entrepreneurial mindset, starting a notary service company could be the ultimate goal. This allows you to use your expertise to lead a team and serve a wider array of clients.
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Position trends and outlook for notaries
The notary profession is on an exciting path thanks to technology and legal changes. Here’s what’s happening and what it means for those in or entering this field:
- Digital shift: Traditional face-to-face notarizations are becoming less common as digital options like remote online notarization take hold. This tech-driven shift makes notarizing documents more efficient and accessible, no matter where you or your clients are located.
- Growing demand: There’s an increasing need for notaries across various sectors, including real estate, legal, and finance. As more businesses and individuals recognize the importance of verified transactions, the demand for these services is rising.
- Changing training and standards: With each state updating its rules around who can become a notary and how, ongoing education is becoming more important. They need to stay on top of these changes to offer the best, most compliant service possible.
- Stable and essential: Despite all the changes, one thing remains constant: the need for notaries. Their role in ensuring the integrity and legality of important documents continues to be crucial.
Notary career tips
Stay informed
Laws and regulations around notarization can change, so it’s crucial to keep up-to-date. Regularly update your knowledge through courses and reading to ensure you provide the best service. Staying informed helps you adapt and offer accurate, timely services to your clients.
Embrace technology
The notary field is becoming more digital. Using tools like electronic seals or digital journals can make your work smoother and faster. Adapting to new technology not only streamlines your tasks but also appeals to clients who prefer digital transactions.
Uphold high ethical standards
Trust is fundamental in your role as a notary. Always maintain integrity, honesty, and confidentiality in your interactions. These qualities are crucial as they directly affect your reputation and the trust clients place in you.
Network with peers
Building connections with other notaries and professionals can open up opportunities for growth and collaboration. Join organizations to meet peers, share experiences, and stay on top of industry trends.
- National Notary Association (NNA)
- American Society of Notaries (ASN)
- United States Notary Association (USNA)
Seek further certification
Setting yourself apart is easier when you specialize. Consider obtaining additional certifications, such as becoming a certified notary signing agent or getting trained in remote online notarization. These qualifications not only enhance your skills but also make you more attractive to clients.
- NNA Certified Notary Signing Agent Course
- Remote Online Notary Certification
Where the notary jobs are
Top employers
- Notarize
- Signature Closers
- Snapdocs
- State of Florida
- Lenders Title Solutions
Top states
- California
- Florida
- New York
- Texas
- Pennsylvania
Top job sites
- zengig
- Simply Hired
- Indeed
- ZipRecruiter
- Notary Rotary
FAQs
What qualifications are needed to become a notary?
Most states require applicants to be at least 18 years old and a legal resident of the state. Some also require a high school diploma or equivalent. A clean criminal background is also commonly required. Training courses, a passing examination score, and a surety bond are often part of becoming a notary.
Does a notary need a specific degree?
No, a specific degree is not typically required. However, some states do require notary education or training, which are different from a college degree and are typically provided by the state or reputable notary organizations.
What are the responsibilities of a notary?
They authenticate signatures on legal documents. They verify the identities of each signer, witness the document signing, and apply their own notary seal. These steps help reduce fraud and ensure that the document is properly executed.
Are notaries in demand?
Yes, they are commonly in need. As long as people continue to conduct business and legal affairs requiring authenticated documentation, they will be needed. Their demand is fairly steady and may increase depending on changes in law and business practices.
What skills does a notary need?
They should have good organizational skills and attention to detail, as they deal with legal documents and must complete paperwork accurately. Effective communication skills are also beneficial, as they interact with various people. Lastly, integrity and neutrality are essential for carrying out notarial duties impartially and lawfully.
Where do notaries typically work?
They can be found in a variety of settings. Banks, law firms, real estate offices, insurance companies, and governmental organizations often employ them. Others work independently, offering their mobile services to individuals and businesses in their local area.
Can a notary refuse to notarize a document?
Yes, they can refuse to notarize a document if they have reason to believe the identity of the signer can’t be verified, if there appears to be deception involved, if the signer appears to be coerced or not capable of understanding the document, or if they are not qualified to notarize the specific document or transaction.
How long does it take to become a notary?
The process varies by state, but generally, it can take four to six weeks. This includes time for certain states’ mandatory training, passing the exam, and waiting for the notary commission certificate. In other states where training or exams are not required, it can take less time.
Do you need to renew your notary status?
Yes, they do need to renew their status regularly. The timeframe varies from state to state. Some states require them to renew every four years, while others could require renewal every ten years. Each renewal may require an updated background check, a new bond, and other state-specific requirements, such as continuing education or retesting.
Can a notary notarize for family members?
In general, they should avoid notarizing documents for close family members to prevent potential conflict of interest or the perception of bias. Some states even have laws prohibiting them from performing notarial acts for family members. Regardless of state law, good professional practice is to refrain from notarizing documents for family members.