Can I become a notary on the side?

Asked by: Cordelia Rutherford III  |  Last update: May 9, 2025
Score: 4.8/5 (63 votes)

Whether you're looking for a way to work from home or a part-time job to get you out of the house, you should consider becoming a Notary first. A Notary commission can open the door to more than a dozen additional money-making opportunities.

Can you be a notary public on the side?

If you're looking to start your own businesses — or make money on the side — becoming a mobile Notary is a good place to start. It is simple, the start-up cost is fairly low and you can work either part-time or full-time. Mobile Notaries travel to signers' locations to notarize documents.

Which notary job makes the most money?

#1: Loan Signing Agent

One of the most lucrative ways to make money as a notary public is by becoming a loan signing agent. ​Signing agents are responsible for guiding borrowers through the process of closing a mortgage loan, ensuring that all paperwork is properly signed and notarized.

What is the most common mistake made by a notary?

One of the most common mistakes that notaries make is not printing or signing their name exactly as it appears on their notary commission.

Does notary location matter?

The short answer is yes, notary publics are legally allowed to notarize documents from any state as long the notarial act is conducted within the geographical boundaries of the notary's state of commission.

HOW TO GROW YOUR NOTARY BUSINESS

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What are the hardest states to become a notary?

New York. New York has one of the toughest tests to become a Notary. The Empire State requires Notary applicants to take and pass an exam in order to receive a commission.

Where are notaries needed the most?

Banks, Mortgage Lenders, and Other Financial Institutions

As we pointed out, loan and mortgage documents require signature verification. The same goes for other financial agreements as well. That means financial institutions will need notary services on a regular basis.

What are the downsides of being a notary?

The Cons of Being a Notary
  • Steady income can be difficult.
  • You could be sued for a lot of money.
  • Upstart and upkeep costs can add up.

How to list notary on resume with no experience?

Under certificates or licenses

The most common place to list your notary status is in your certificates and licenses section. List your status as noted above, including location and expiration date, and include any additional certificates, such as certified notary signing agent or eNotary.

Can Notaries swear people in?

2093. (a) Every court, every judge, or clerk of any court, every justice, and every notary public, and every officer or person authorized to take testimony in any action or proceeding, or to decide upon evidence, has the power to administer oaths or affirmations.

Is notary a good side hustle?

A Notary commission can open the door to more than a dozen additional money-making opportunities. Being a Notary shows that you have integrity and it establishes a level of trust that gives you a leg up on your competition — even if you're not directly using your commission for every freelance job that comes your way.

Can you work from home as a notary?

States that allow RON in the future: California, District of Columbia, Massachusetts, North Carolina and Vermont. States that don't allow RON: Alabama, Connecticut, Georgia, Mississippi and South Carolina.

How to find work as a notary?

How to find notary jobs
  1. Become approved by your state. ...
  2. Look for job openings in your community. ...
  3. Advertise your services. ...
  4. Tell people you're a notary. ...
  5. Attend networking events. ...
  6. Post a profile on an official community notary page or website. ...
  7. Talk to other notaries.

How to be a mobile notary?

Steps to Become a Mobile Notary
  1. Meet the Basic Requirements. ...
  2. Complete Notary Education and Training. ...
  3. Pass the Notary Exam. ...
  4. Obtain a Notary Bond and Insurance. ...
  5. Apply for Your Notary Commission. ...
  6. Setting Up Your Business Structure. ...
  7. Marketing Your Services. ...
  8. Managing Appointments and Scheduling.

Do you tip a notary?

Just like money tips, the recommended ethical practice for other types of gifts and gratuities is not to accept them. Guiding Principle II-A-3 of The Notary Public Code of Professional Responsibility of 2020 recommends Notaries should not accept any gifts, gratuities or donations.

Can I work for myself as a notary?

It is possible! Many people have found freedom in being able to work for themselves as a mobile notary public. There are certain steps you do need to take so that you will have a successful notary business.

Can a notary say no?

Always make sure that you have good cause. You cannot turn down a request simply because of a gut feeling, a nagging suspicion or because you simply “don't like the look” of the signer. Some reasons for refusing are clear cut: Say, for example, the signer asks you to notarize his absent wife's signature.

Is a notary a license or certification?

Like the training beforehand, the notary exam can usually be taken either in person or online. After taking and passing the exam, the state will provide you with a notary commission certificate and further instructions regarding the oath of office.

How often do Notaries make mistakes?

Notary mistakes and errors increase the number of rejected documents. Most rejected documents contain minor or major notarization mistakes. On average, 30% of notarized documents contain mistakes. But depending on your county and state, this rejection rate can vary.

Is notary a stressful job?

Working as a Notary is flexible, rewarding and provides a valuable service to the public — but no one ever said it's a cakewalk. Notaries face many sources of stress on the job, including angry customers, illegal requests, irregular work hours and more.

Is notary a high risk business?

Notaries already shoulder significant risks of being sued, but errors and omissions insurance won't protect your home and other personal assets if your insurance doesn't fully cover the cost of a lawsuit.

Which type of notary makes the most money?

Specialize in real estate closings

Make money as a notary public by becoming a loan signing agent and specializing in notarizing real estate documents. Loan signings are often more complex and command higher fees.

Is there a demand for online notaries?

States such as California and Texas often see higher demand, increasing the potential for new notaries to secure more jobs. With an average of 5-10 notarizations per day, a notary in these states could earn between $125 and $500 daily.

How much do most notaries charge?

Notarization fees are regulated by California state law and are generally low-cost. So how much does a notary charge? In most cases, a California notary public may charge a maximum notary fee of $15 for each signature. This includes writing the certificate, affixing the notary stamp, and acknowledging the signature.