Public Official
Notary Bond
A notary bond is a surety bond a notary public must file before acting, which pays people harmed by the notary's mistakes or misconduct.
- Required by
- State law, filed with the county probate judge (Alabama) or the Department of State (Florida)
- Bond amount
- Set by whoever requires the bond. We confirm it.
What this bond guarantees
The bond promises that the notary will faithfully perform the duties of the office. It is payable to any person harmed by a breach of the notary's official duties, for example notarizing a signature without proper identification. If the surety pays a claim, the notary must repay the surety.
Who needs it
- New notaries public
- Notaries renewing a commission
- Employees asked by their employer to become a notary
What the underwriter looks at
- State bond amount
- Length of the commission term
- Prior claims or discipline as a notary
Requirements vary by state and by who asks for the bond. Send us the request you received and we will confirm exactly what it calls for.
Common questions
How much is the notary bond in Alabama and Florida?
Alabama raised its notary bond to $50,000 effective September 1, 2023, and the bond is recorded with the probate court in your county. Florida requires a $7,500 bond filed with the Department of State. Other states set their own amounts.
Does the notary bond protect me if I am sued?
No. The bond protects the public, not the notary. If the surety pays a claim, you must repay it. Errors and omissions insurance is a separate product that protects the notary.