Questions
Frequently asked questions
General information about notary bonds, E&O insurance, and how Notary.Bond works.
What is a notary bond?
- A notary surety bond is a financial guarantee required by many states as a condition of holding a notary commission. It protects the public: if a notary makes an error or engages in misconduct that causes financial harm, a valid claim can be paid up to the bond amount. The notary is generally responsible for reimbursing the surety for amounts paid on a claim.
What is the difference between a notary bond and E&O insurance?
- A notary bond protects the public and is often required by the state. Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance protects you, the notary, by helping cover the cost of defending against claims and certain losses arising from mistakes made in your notarial acts. E&O is typically optional and is purchased for your own protection.
Do I need both a bond and E&O insurance?
- It depends on your state and your preferences. Some states require a bond; E&O insurance is usually optional. Many notaries choose a bond + E&O package for both the required protection of the public and added protection for themselves. Check your state's requirements before deciding.
How does purchasing work on Notary.Bond?
- You choose your state, review the requirements, and compare the available options. When you select an option, you'll complete your purchase through The Southern Agency's secure online checkout — The Southern Agency is the licensed insurance agency behind Notary.Bond, and it handles the application, payment, and document issuance.
Why do notary requirements differ by state?
- Notary commissions are governed at the state level, so each state sets its own rules — including whether a bond is required, the required bond amount, the commission term length, and the application process. That is why Notary.Bond organizes options by state.
How do renewals work?
- Notary commissions are issued for a set term that varies by state. When your term ends, you typically renew your commission and obtain a new bond (and E&O coverage, if you carry it) for the next term. Start by selecting your state to review current requirements before you renew.
What is remote online notarization (RON)?
- Remote online notarization lets a notary perform notarial acts for a signer who appears via live audio-video technology rather than in person. Availability, authorization, and requirements for RON vary by state, and some states may require specific technology, registration, or coverage. Confirm what your state permits before offering remote services.
What if my state has no product listed?
- Availability varies by state, and not every state has options listed. If you don't see a product for your state, it may not be available through Notary.Bond at this time. You can still review general guidance in our resources and check your state's requirements directly with your commissioning authority.
Is Notary.Bond an insurer or a government agency?
- No. Notary.Bond is the online storefront of The Southern Agency, a licensed insurance agency. The bonds and policies themselves are underwritten by licensed surety and insurance carriers. Notary.Bond is not a government agency and is not affiliated with any state commissioning authority.
How much does a notary bond or E&O policy cost?
- Pricing depends on your state, the required bond amount, and the coverage you choose. Exact costs are shown during The Southern Agency's secure checkout when you continue to purchase a specific option.
When will I receive my documents?
- Application and issuance are completed through The Southern Agency's secure checkout. Timing and delivery of your bond and any policy documents are handled there — follow the prompts during checkout for details.
Where can I learn more before I buy?
- Our resources cover the basics of notary bonds, E&O insurance, and state requirements. When you're ready, choose your state to review requirements and compare options.
Ready to look up your state or read more?