Do loan signing agents pay taxes?

Asked by: Aditya Erdman I  |  Last update: August 26, 2025
Score: 4.4/5 (29 votes)

If you are a self-employed Notary Signing Agent, IRS Publication 17 states that you must pay self-employment tax if you had net earnings of $400 or more from fees for services other than notarizing documents (for example, traveling to a signer's home, delivering completed loan document packages, etc.).

Is it worth being a loan signing agent?

High Earning Potential

Loan signing agents can earn a substantial income. Fees for each signing typically range from $75 to $200, allowing agents to increase their income based on the number of signings they complete.

Are loan signing agents self employed?

As independent contractors who work with lenders or escrow offices, Loan Signing Agents determine how much they charge and earn from their services. Signing Agents negotiate their fees based on business expenses, companies they work with, travel and time required for assignments, and demand for services in their area.

How do loan signing agents make money?

Unlike a notary public, whose fees are often capped by the state, independent signing agents can earn between $75 and $200 per signing appointment. They can also charge additional fees for services like mailing the loan package, printing loan documents and transportation expenses (if applicable).

Is notary income not taxable?

Fees for services you provide as a notary public are not subject to self-employment tax. However, all of your other self-employment income is subject to self-employment tax.

Tax Deductions for Notary Signing Agents (How to Save $$$)

40 related questions found

Do notaries get tax breaks?

Here is the good news for notaries! There is a little-known piece of tax code that states that notarial fees are not subject to self-employment tax, which means the portion of your net income that you earn from notarial fees (i.e. notarial acts) is not subject to self-employment tax!

Which income isn t taxable?

Inheritances, gifts, cash rebates, alimony payments (for divorce decrees finalized after 2018), child support payments, most healthcare benefits, welfare payments, and money that is reimbursed from qualifying adoptions are deemed nontaxable by the IRS.

Are loan signing agents in high demand?

The demand for skilled notary loan signing agents is increasing due to the trend of remote work and digital transactions. The evolving financial landscape has created more opportunities for these professionals.

What is the difference between a loan signing agent and a notary signing agent?

Loan signing agents deal exclusively with loan documents and are specially trained and certified to do so. A notary public can be used for the notarization of most any other kind of document which is not related to loan agreements.

How do loan agents get paid?

While federal law prohibits commissions from varying based on the terms of the mortgage, lenders can pay mortgage loan officers and brokers in many ways. For example, a lender can pay a salary, a fixed amount per loan, a fixed percentage of the amount of the loan, or even a combination.

Is notary a good side job?

Opportunity to make extra money

While it's difficult to build a six-figure income by doing simple notarizations like jurats and acknowledgments, some states have higher maximum rates than others. In California, notaries can charge $15 per notarial act. In Florida, Arizona, Michigan, and others, notaries can charge $10.

How do loan signing agents get clients?

This article explores various avenues, tips and tricks that signing agents can employ to expand their client base and increase revenue.
  1. Leveraging Signing Services. ...
  2. The Direct Client Approach. ...
  3. Embrace Digital Marketing. ...
  4. Local Offline Marketing. ...
  5. Create a Notary Network. ...
  6. Know Your Advertising Laws.

Is it hard to become a loan signing agent?

Anyone who meets the requirements to be a Notary Public in their state can go on to become a Signing Agent. To qualify for a Notary Public commission, generally you must be at least 18 years old, be a legal resident of your state and have no felony convictions.

How many hours do loan signing agents work?

It's absolutely feasible for a full-time loan signing agent to do 15 signings per week, working roughly 40 to 45 hours (including appointment and drive time). Completing 15 signings each week at $100 per job is roughly $1,500 in 7 days…or about $6,000 a month… and around $72,000 a year.

How much do you make per loan signing?

How much money do notary signing agents make? Typically, a notary signing agent can earn $ 75 to $ 200 per loan signing. However, fees for more complex signings or those made outside of usual business hours may be higher.

Is notary rotary free?

Notary Rotary offers both free and premium membership tiers, providing cost-effective options for users based on their needs.

Do banks use loan signing agents?

Banks and credit unions: Many financial institutions offer notary services, including notary signing agents, to their customers.

Can you make money as 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. Loan signing agents can earn anywhere from $75 to $200 per appointment, making it a highly profitable addition to any notary business.

Who uses loan signing agents?

​ Most sources of direct business (escrow officers, mortgage officers, and real estate agents) already have notary loan signing agents who they frequently use. Therefore, you'll need to convince them to pick you over someone else.

What are the notary trends for 2024?

Welcoming 2024: Notary Trends on the Horizon

As we step into the new year, expect to see notary services embracing blockchain technology for enhanced security and transparency. Blockchain ensures that notarized documents remain tamper-proof and easily verifiable, providing an additional layer of trust.

How does a notary get paid?

The two most common ways notaries make money are: Part of an established salary (working for a bank, local post office or another business) As an independent, freelance notary.

How to become a 24 hour notary?

Starting a Mobile Notary Business: A Quick Checklist
  1. Ensure you meet your state's requirements.
  2. Complete a state-approved training course.
  3. Submit your state's notary application.
  4. Pass the state-administered exam.
  5. Undergo a background check.
  6. Await your commission certificate in the mail.
  7. Purchase a surety bond.

Which income is tax free in India?

What kind of income is not taxable in India? Examples of income that are not taxable in India include agricultural income, gifts and inheritances, interest on EPF and PPF, scholarships and awards, life insurance proceeds, leave encashment, gratuity, long-term capital gains (LTCG), and interest on tax-free bonds.

What jobs don't pay taxes?

If you are looking for a position where your taxes are not automatically taken out of your paycheck, here are some options that could work for you:
  • Independent contractor.
  • Social media influencer.
  • Small business owner.
  • Priest. Average Salary: $44,712.
  • Hair Stylist. ...
  • Nail Technician. ...
  • Volunteer Work.
  • Delivery Driver.