Is it worth being a notary in California?
Asked by: Dimitri Von | Last update: July 30, 2025Score: 4.3/5 (66 votes)
Without a doubt, becoming a notary public in California is a great way to make more money. It also offers numerous other benefits such as social connections, expanding your professional skills, and providing a valuable service to your community. These are some advantages of becoming a CA notary: 1.
Do notaries make good money in California?
How much does a Notary make in California? As of Dec 28, 2024, the average annual pay for a Notary in California is $63,928 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $30.73 an hour. This is the equivalent of $1,229/week or $5,327/month.
Is there a demand for notaries in California?
Demand: The need for notaries is on the rise due to economic growth and increased legal services. This trend creates ample job opportunities. Earning Potential: With California being the highest-paying state for notaries, the average salary stands at $59,055 per year.
Can I make a good living as a notary in California?
This is actually a living wage career, but doesn't require a degree or extensive training. Around two hundred thousand people are making a good living as a notary public in California. You could be one of them if you wanted to be, and we can help you!
What are the downsides 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 Become a Notary Public in California A Step by Step Guide
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.
What type of notary 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.
Is it hard to be a Notary in California?
Requirements to Become a Notary Public
be a legal California resident. complete a course of study approved by the Secretary of State. satisfactorily complete and pass a written examination prescribed by the Secretary of State. clear a background check.
Do Notaries pay taxes in California?
It's important to note that notary fees are considered taxable ordinary income and are not subject to self-employment tax. However, other fees or services that you offer may be subject to both ordinary income tax and self-employment tax.
Can California Notaries work remotely?
Does California allow remote online notaries? Yes. Starting January 1, 2024, Californians will have the option to get their documents notarized online, based on California Senate Bill 696.
What is the hardest state 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.
Can Notaries marry people in California?
In California, Notaries may apply for approval to issue confidential marriage licenses. This Notary power is granted to certain selected Notaries only. Assembly Bill 1102 now requires a six-hour course for all approvals and renewals. In addition, it raises the application fee from $175 to $300.
Is it hard to get business as a notary?
It's not instant and it's not easy. Few Notaries find high-paying and rewarding work when first starting out. A crucial part of getting business is finding and introducing yourself to potential customers. While every Notary's community is different, here are some good places to get started.
What is the total cost to become a notary in California?
The cost to become a Notary in California ranges between $313 to $595, depending on the company you choose for your Notary training and supplies and the county in which you file your bond and oath of office.
What are the benefits of being a notary public in California?
What are the benefits of becoming a California notary public? Becoming a California notary can enhance employability in various industries and provide additional income. Notaries offer valuable services that can lead to job stability and financial gains.
How much do full time notaries make in California?
Notary Public Salary in California. $61,200 is the 25th percentile. Salaries below this are outliers. $71,600 is the 75th percentile.
What Cannot be notarized in California?
- Documents with blank or missing pages.
- Documents with faxed signatures (the signer must be present)
- Documents in which the notary has a financial interest or is not impartial for some other reason.
- Documents the notary suspects are false, deceptive, or illegal.
- Post-dated documents.
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!
Is it stressful to be a notary?
As a notary, you're responsible for verifying the identities of signatories and ensuring that they understand and sign critical documents voluntarily. It is no easy feat, and the pressure to get it right can be overwhelming. It's no wonder that many notaries suffer from constant worry and anxiety.
What disqualifies you from being a notary in California?
Failure to disclose any arrest or conviction. Conviction of a felony where not more than 10 years have passed since the completion of probation. Conviction of a disqualifying misdemeanor where not more than 5 years have passed since the completion of probation.
How fast can you become a notary in California?
Basic Course
Our basic 6-hour course covers everything you need to know to become a notary in a 6-hour written course curriculum. This text-based course is licensed by the Secretary of State to meet all California state guidelines.
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.
Is notary a side hustle?
Why becoming a Notary is the ultimate side gig. 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.
What is the day in the life of a notary?
Notaries frequently meet clients at various locations, including offices, homes, and even public places like coffee shops. Each meeting typically involves verifying the identity of the signer, ensuring that all documents are complete and accurate, and witnessing the signing process.