What are the pros and cons of being a notary public?

Asked by: Alvah Ernser  |  Last update: July 30, 2025
Score: 4.3/5 (73 votes)

  • Steady income can be difficult.
  • You could be sued for a lot of money.
  • Upstart and upkeep costs can add up.
  • Getting started as a notary is pretty easy.
  • Flexible hours and be your own boss.
  • A notary commission enhances your resume.
  • Opportunity to make extra money.
  • You get to help people.

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 high risk business?

Even though statistically, less than 2% of full-time notaries end up in court, the risk of a lawsuit is significant enough to make one want to ensure they have coverage.

What type of notaries make 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 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.

Pros and Cons of Being A Notary Signing Agent

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What type of personality does a notary have?

Extraversion: Notaries don't necessarily need to be extraverted, but they do need to be comfortable interacting with people. They must be able to communicate effectively and build trust with their clients. Agreeableness: Notaries need to be approachable and easy to work with.

Is a 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.

What jobs can I get as a notary public?

Career Paths for Notaries
  • Job Opportunities for Notaries. Real estate agencies, law offices, banks or credit unions and lending institutions are common places that hire commissioned notaries. ...
  • Notary Signing Agent. ...
  • Escrow Assistant. ...
  • Legal Assistant. ...
  • Field Inspector. ...
  • Bookkeeper. ...
  • Remote Online Notary.

How to market yourself as a notary?

5 simple tips to market your Notary Signing Agent business
  1. Create profiles on as many Notary listing websites as possible.
  2. Create a social media presence.
  3. Create a Google ad for your business.
  4. Form a Notary network.
  5. Reach out directly to potential clients.

What are the cons 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.

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 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.

What is a notary liable for?

A notary public is liable for all damages caused by his or her errors, omissions, improper notarizations, or negligence in the performance of a notarial act even if such actions were made inadvertently.

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.

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.

How much do you make working for notarize?

The average Notarize salary ranges from approximately $52,362 per year for Sales Representative to $149,209 per year for Senior Software Engineer. Average Notarize hourly pay ranges from approximately $18.00 per hour for Accounting Intern to $20.65 per hour for Customer Support Representative.

What industry is notary public considered?

Establishments of notaries public engaged in activities, such as administering oaths and taking affidavits and depositions, witnessing and certifying signatures on documents, but not empowered to draw and approve legal documents and contracts, are classified in U.S. Industry 541199, All Other Legal Services.

Is it profitable to be a notary?

Notaries generate income by charging fees for their notarial services, following state-specific laws. Initially, fees may seem limiting, ranging from $0.50 to $15 for a signature. However, with additional training, you can become a notary signing agent, capable of charging over $100 for a single loan signing.

Is a notary public a full-time job?

Becoming a notary public can be a great side gig with plenty of opportunities to earn supplemental income. Once commissioned, you're free to spend as much (or as little) time notarizing as you want.

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.

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.

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.

Can I do notary work on the side?

There are no educational requirements, but some states, including California and New York, require notaries to take a training course and pass an hour-long exam. Other states might also require you to pass a background check and file a surety bond as part of the process (you can check your state's rules here).