What's the difference between a notary and a signing agent?
Asked by: Geraldine Feest | Last update: September 2, 2025Score: 4.7/5 (16 votes)
Although they start on similar paths, they're not the same thing: Notaries are there to verify identities and witness signatures while signing agents are certified to walk borrowers through specific loan-signing documents.
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.
What is the difference between a notary and a signing agent?
A loan signing agent notarizes and certifies financial and legal documentation related to loan documents. A notary is a public officer who is certified to witness and confirm the signing of documents. Whenever a contract crosses a desk, the need for a notary probably isn't far behind.
How do notary Signing Agents get paid?
Notary Signing Agents are paid after the assignment has been completed. The payment terms usually are stated in the agreement you signed with the contracting company. Each company you work for will have their own rules. You should follow any procedures and duties for receiving payment that are outlined in the contract.
What is the highest level of notary?
All notaries begin at the Bronze level, but can be invited to upgrade to Silver, Gold, or even Platinum!
What's the Difference between a Loan Signing Agent and a Notary Public? Great video for Notary-to-be
Is it stressful to be a notary?
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.
How long does it take to become a notary signing agent?
Notary Signing Agent FAQs
Applicants who are already commissioned as Notaries and follow the recommended industry certification process listed above can expect one to two weeks to become a certified Signing Agent.
How much do Notaries make per closing?
In California, the maximum fee notaries can charge per signature is $15. However, notaries often earn additional income through: Travel fees for mobile notary services. Loan signing packages (ranging from $75 to $200+ per signing)
How do notary signing agents get clients?
Many Notaries agreed that getting the word out in your community is one of the best ways to find new customers. If someone needs a notarization but aren't sure where to go, word of mouth about your business can be key to getting signers to come to you first.
Is a notary a side job?
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.
Is the closing agent the notary?
The closing agent may also be a notary, and will often locate a suitable signing agent through a service like Statewide Document Services.
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 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 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.
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.
How do signing agents get paid?
Loan signing agents play a crucial role in the real estate industry by facilitating the signing of loan documents for Title Companies. When it comes to their payment structure, loan signing agents typically earn a fee for each loan signing they complete.
Is becoming a loan signing agent worth it?
Increased Earning Potential: Loan signing agents can earn more than notary publics, especially if they are able to complete multiple signings per day. Expanded Services: By offering signing agent services, you can provide a more comprehensive range of services to your customers, increasing your value to them.
Is there a demand for notary signing agents?
The demand for skilled notary loan signing agents is increasing due to the trend of remote work and digital transactions.
How hard is the loan signing system exam?
The pass rate of Loan Signing System's exam is approximately 30%. We make the test challenging on purpose to prepare you to build a successful signing agent business. The students who pass the test on the first try are those that set aside time in a quiet place and take notes during every module.
What is the job outlook for a notary signing agent?
Being a notary signing agent has been considered one of the most prestigious and rewarding job profiles for many years and still is. But, as 2024 approaches, the market is ready to surprise a lot of notaries and signing services for sure and can dramatically transform the future of notary services.
Is notary star worth it?
If you are brand new or less than a year into your career we highly recommend you sign up for at least the Notary Star Membership to ensure you have the advanced training you need to conquer this industry.
Is being an online notary worth it?
Becoming a successful online notary can be challenging, and profitability will take some time, but if you are patient and market yourself effectively, becoming an online notary can be worthwhile in the long run.
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.
How does a notary make money?
Ideas for Making Money as a Notary Public in California
Notaries public often perform as loan signing agents in California, since they are certified to witness and confirm a loan document that is being signed. This most frequently occurs when someone buys or refinances a home.