How to Become a Notary Public: Qualifications, Requirements, and Benefits

Introduction

A notary public is a person appointed by the government to serve as an impartial witness to the signing of important documents such as wills, trusts, contracts, deeds, and powers of attorney. Notaries must verify the identity of signers and certify that they have signed the document of their own free will. Becoming a notary public is a great way to provide a valuable service to others and make some extra money.

Qualifications and Requirements

In order to become a notary public, you must meet certain qualifications and requirements. Generally, you must be at least 18 years old, a legal resident of the state in which you are applying, and possess a valid driver’s license or other government-issued identification. It is also important to understand the role and responsibilities of a notary public, which includes verifying the identity of signers, certifying that they have signed the documents of their own free will, and keeping accurate records of all notarizations.

Types of Documents

Notaries can notarize a variety of different documents, including wills, trusts, contracts, deeds, and powers of attorney. Notaries may also be asked to authenticate signatures on loan documents, tax forms, court documents, and other official papers.

Application Process

The application process for becoming a notary public varies from state to state. Generally, you must submit an application to the Secretary of State or other designated state agency and pay a fee. The application will require information about your background, such as your address, occupation, and any criminal convictions. Some states may also require you to pass a written exam before you can become a notary public.

Notarization Process

Once you have been appointed as a notary public, you must follow certain procedures when notarizing documents. You must first identify the signer, typically by asking to see a driver’s license or other form of government-issued identification. You must then witness the signing of the document and complete the notarial certificate, which includes the date, place, name of signer, and other details. Finally, you must affix your seal or stamp to the document.

Supplies Necessary

In order to properly notarize documents, you will need certain supplies. These include a notary journal, a notary seal or stamp, a record book, and a bond. Depending on the state in which you are operating, you may also need additional supplies such as an embosser or inkless thumbprint pad.

Benefits

Being a notary public provides a number of benefits. For one, it is a great way to earn extra income. According to a Forbes article, “Notaries can charge anywhere from $5 to $50 for each notarial act, depending on the complexity of the document.” Additionally, being a notary public can be a great way to build relationships with clients and increase your visibility in the community.

Conclusion

Becoming a notary public is a great way to provide a valuable service to others and make some extra money. To become a notary public, you must meet certain qualifications and requirements, including being at least 18 years old, a legal resident of the state in which you are applying, and possessing a valid driver’s license or other government-issued identification. You must also understand the role and responsibilities of a notary public and the types of documents that can be notarized. Additionally, you should familiarize yourself with the application process, the notarization process, the supplies necessary, and the benefits of being a notary public. Once you have met all the requirements, you can begin your journey as a notary public.