How to Make Money as a Notary Public

If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably dabbled in a variety of side gigs, from flipping items on eBay to launching your own online store. While each venture has its own perks, I’ve discovered that becoming a notary public is one of the most accessible and lucrative options out there.

In today’s fast-paced world, where flexibility and additional income streams are essential, notary services are in high demand. Whether it’s helping someone finalize a real estate deal, assisting a traveler with visa documentation, or providing crucial support for legal transactions, notaries play a vital role in making life easier for others. The best part? You can set your own hours, work from anywhere, and scale your efforts as you see fit.

In this article, I’ll share my insights on how to make money as a notary public, drawing from my own experiences with various side hustles. You’ll learn about the different avenues available to you, practical steps to get started, and tips to maximize your earnings.

What is a Notary Public?

A notary public is a public official appointed by the state to serve as an impartial witness in the signing of important documents. Their primary role is to deter fraud by verifying the identity of the signers and ensuring that they are signing willingly and under their own volition.

Notaries public perform several essential functions, including:

• Administering Oaths and Affirmations: They can administer oaths for various legal documents and proceedings.
• Taking Affidavits and Depositions: Notaries can witness and authenticate sworn statements made by individuals.
• Certifying Acknowledgments: They verify the identity of individuals signing documents, ensuring that the signatures are valid and voluntary.
• Performing Notarial Acts: This includes authenticating the execution of documents, such as deeds, powers of attorney, and contracts, making them legally binding.
• Maintaining Records: Notaries often keep a record of their notarial acts, which can be important for legal purposes.

The powers and duties of notaries public can vary significantly based on jurisdiction. In the United States, for example, notaries generally have more limited powers compared to civil-law notaries found in other countries. Most U.S. notaries are not authorized to provide legal advice or prepare legal documents, which is a function reserved for licensed attorneys.

How to Become a Notary Public?

If you want to become a notary public, you must meet the following requirements:

• At least 18 years old.
• Be a legal resident of the state where you wish to become a notary.
• Have no felony convictions or crimes involving moral turpitude.

After that, you need to submit an application to your state government, typically through the Secretary of State’s office, and pay any required application fees, which can vary by state.

Some states require completion of a training course and passing a written examination. Training may be provided by state-approved courses, notary associations, or community colleges.

Not all states require training or exams, but they are often recommended to understand the duties and legal responsibilities of a notary.

If your application is approved and you meet all requirements, you will receive a commission certificate. You may need to file additional paperwork or take an oath of office, sometimes in person at a county clerk’s office.

Before providing your notary services, you also have to obtain necessary supplies such as a notary seal and a journal to record notarial acts. Some states may require a surety bond.

The whole process can take between four and nine weeks, depending on state requirements and whether an exam is needed.

10 Ways to Make Money as a Notary Public

As a notary public, you have multiple ways to monetize your hard-earned skills. Here’re 10 best ideas you might consider:

1. Offer Mobile Notary Services

Mobile notaries travel to clients’ locations to perform notarizations, offering convenience and flexibility. This service is in demand for various documents like legal papers, real estate transactions, and business contracts.

How to Get Started

1. Obtain your notary commission from your state
2. Purchase necessary supplies (stamp, journal, etc.)
3. Set up a business entity (e.g. sole proprietorship or LLC)
4. Create a marketing plan (business cards, website, social media)
5. Join online directories and notary networks
6. Set your fees and travel radius

Earning Potential

Mobile notaries typically charge $25-$75 per signature, plus travel fees. Many earn $2,000-$4,000 per month working part-time. Full-time mobile notaries with established businesses can potentially earn $50,000-$100,000 annually, depending on location and demand.

2. Become a Loan Signing Agent

Loan signing agents are specialized notaries who handle mortgage and real estate document signings. They explain and notarize loan packages for borrowers during property transactions.

How to Get Started

1. Become a commissioned notary public
2. Complete a loan signing agent certification course
3. Obtain errors and omissions insurance
4. Register with signing services and title companies
5. Learn about mortgage documents and the closing process
6. Market your services to real estate professionals

Earning Potential

Loan signing agents typically earn $75-$200 per signing appointment. Full-time loan signing agents can potentially earn $7,500 or more per month, with some reporting annual incomes of $100,000+. However, income can vary significantly based on location, experience, and market conditions.

3. Partner with Law Firms to Notarize Legal Documents

Law firms frequently require notarization services for various legal documents such as affidavits, depositions, and contracts. By partnering with law firms, notaries can provide on-demand services for their clients and staff.

How to Get Started

1. Research local law firms in your area
2. Prepare a professional pitch highlighting your notary services
3. Reach out to law firms via email or phone to offer your services
4. Consider offering a discount for bulk notarizations or regular appointments
5. Maintain a flexible schedule to accommodate urgent requests
6. Provide excellent service to build long-term relationships

Earning Potential

Notaries working with law firms can earn $50-$100 per hour, depending on the complexity of documents and volume of work. Some notaries report earning $2,000-$3,000 per month from law firm partnerships alone. Building relationships with multiple firms can lead to steady, recurring income.

4. Work with Banks and Financial Institutions

Banks and financial institutions frequently require notary services for various transactions, including loan documents, account openings, and power of attorney forms. Notaries can partner with these institutions to provide on-site or on-call services.

How to Get Started

1. Contact local banks, credit unions, and financial institutions
2. Inquire about their notary needs and current processes
3. Offer your services as an independent contractor or part-time employee
4. Familiarize yourself with common financial documents requiring notarization
5. Consider obtaining additional certifications related to financial document handling
6. Be prepared to undergo background checks and adhere to strict confidentiality standards

Earning Potential

Notaries working with financial institutions can earn $20-$50 per hour as part-time employees or $50-$150 per appointment as independent contractors. Some notaries report earning $3,000-$5,000 per month working with multiple banks. The earning potential can increase significantly during peak periods such as tax season or end-of-year financial planning.

5. Provide Notary Services for Medical Documents

Notaries can offer specialized services for medical documents, including living wills, healthcare proxies, and HIPAA authorization forms. This niche service is in high demand due to the sensitive nature of medical documents and the frequent need for notarization in healthcare settings.

How to Get Started

1. Obtain your notary commission and complete any required training
2. Familiarize yourself with common medical documents requiring notarization
3. Contact local hospitals, nursing homes, and medical offices to offer your services
4. Consider obtaining additional certifications related to healthcare privacy laws
5. Develop a mobile notary service to visit patients who cannot travel
6. Create marketing materials highlighting your expertise in medical document notarization

Earning Potential

Notaries specializing in medical documents can charge $50-$100 per signature, with additional fees for travel. Many earn $3,000-$5,000 per month working part-time. Full-time notaries focusing on medical documents can potentially earn $60,000-$80,000 annually, depending on location and demand.

6. Conduct Marriage Ceremonies

In some states, notaries public are authorized to officiate wedding ceremonies. This service allows notaries to tap into the lucrative wedding industry while providing a meaningful service to couples.

How to Get Started

1. Check your state’s laws regarding notary-officiated weddings
2. Complete any additional training or certification required for marriage officiants
3. Develop a wedding ceremony script and personalization options
4. Create a website showcasing your services and pricing
5. Network with wedding planners, venues, and other wedding industry professionals
6. Consider offering additional services like premarital counseling or custom vow writing

Earning Potential

Notaries officiating weddings can charge $200-$800 per ceremony, depending on location and customization. Many earn $1,000-$3,000 per month performing 1-3 ceremonies each weekend. Experienced notary wedding officiants in high-demand areas can potentially earn $50,000-$100,000 annually, especially when combining ceremony fees with travel charges and additional services.

7. Offer Notarization for Academic Documents

Many students and graduates require notarized copies of academic documents like diplomas, transcripts, and enrollment verifications for various purposes, including foreign employment, study abroad programs, and professional certifications.

How to Get Started

1. Obtain your notary commission and complete any required training
2. Familiarize yourself with common academic documents requiring notarization
3. Contact local universities, colleges, and high schools to offer your services
4. Create partnerships with international student offices and study abroad programs
5. Develop a mobile notary service to visit campuses and student housing areas
6. Advertise your services on student forums, social media, and campus bulletin boards

Earning Potential

Notaries specializing in academic documents can charge $25-$50 per document, with additional fees for multiple copies or rush services. Many earn $2,000-$4,000 per month during peak periods (graduation seasons, start of academic terms). Full-time notaries focusing on academic documents in areas with multiple educational institutions can potentially earn $40,000-$60,000 annually.

8. Cater to Travelers Needing Notarized Copies for Visas and Passports

International travelers often require notarized copies of identification documents, such as passports, driver’s licenses, and birth certificates, for visa applications or other travel-related purposes.

How to Get Started

1. Obtain your notary commission and necessary supplies
2. Research common requirements for visa applications and passport services
3. Partner with travel agencies, passport expediting services, and visa application centers
4. Offer extended hours to accommodate travelers’ schedules
5. Create a website highlighting your expertise in travel document notarization
6. Consider offering additional services like document photocopying and passport photos

Earning Potential

Notaries specializing in travel documents can charge $30-$75 per set of documents, with higher rates for rush services or after-hours appointments. Many earn $3,000-$5,000 per month in areas with high international travel activity. Experienced notaries in major cities or near international airports can potentially earn $50,000-$80,000 annually, especially when combining notarization fees with additional travel-related services.

9. Conduct Workshops and Training Sessions for New Notaries

Experienced notaries can leverage their knowledge and expertise by offering workshops and training sessions to aspiring notaries. These educational programs can cover topics such as notary laws, proper procedures, and best practices.

How to Get Started

1. Develop a comprehensive curriculum based on your state’s notary laws and regulations
2. Create engaging presentation materials and handouts
3. Partner with local community centers, libraries, or colleges to host your workshops
4. Advertise your training sessions through social media and local business networks
5. Consider becoming a state-approved notary instructor if your state offers such a program
6. Offer both in-person and online training options to reach a wider audience

Earning Potential

Notary trainers can charge $50-$200 per person for a workshop, depending on the length and depth of the training. Many earn $1,000-$3,000 per month conducting 2-4 workshops. Experienced trainers with a strong reputation can potentially earn $40,000-$80,000 annually, especially when combining workshop fees with sales of supplementary materials and one-on-one coaching sessions.

10. Create Online Content About Notary Services

Notaries can share their expertise and attract potential clients by creating valuable online content such as blogs, videos, or podcasts about notary services, laws, and industry trends.

How to Get Started

1. Choose your preferred content format (blog, video, podcast, etc.)
2. Develop a content strategy focusing on common notary questions and topics
3. Create a website or YouTube channel to host your content
4. Consistently produce high-quality, informative content
5. Optimize your content for search engines to increase visibility
6. Engage with your audience through comments and social media

Earning Potential

While creating content may not generate immediate income, it can lead to various revenue streams:

• Ad revenue: $100-$1,000 per month for popular blogs or YouTube channels
• Affiliate marketing: $200-$2,000 per month promoting notary supplies or courses
• Sponsored content: $500-$2,000 per sponsored post or video
• Increased notary service requests: Potential for 20-50% increase in regular notary income

Top notary content creators can earn $30,000-$100,000 annually through a combination of these revenue streams and increased visibility for their notary services. However, building a significant audience takes time and consistent effort.

4 Best Practices for Making Money as a Notary Public

Becoming a notary public can be a lucrative venture, especially if you approach it with the right strategies. Here’re some tips to help you get started on the path to success.

1. Purchase Your Notary Supplies

Investing in the right supplies is crucial for establishing your notary business. Here’s what you need to consider:

• Notary Seal and Journal: Your notary seal is your official mark, and it’s essential for authenticating documents. A notary journal is also vital for recording all notarizations, as it provides a legal record and protects you from potential liability.
• Stamp and Embosser: Depending on your state’s regulations, you may need both a stamp and an embosser. The stamp is typically used for most documents, while an embosser can add a professional touch.
• Additional Supplies: Consider investing in supplies like pens, paper clips, and folders for organizing documents. A mobile printer can also be beneficial if you offer mobile notary services.
• Technology Tools: If you plan to offer remote online notarization (RON), you’ll need a reliable computer, webcam, and secure internet connection, along with any specific software required for RON services.

By equipping yourself with the necessary tools, you can provide reliable and professional services that will attract clients and help you build a successful career as a notary public.

2. Set Up Your Business Structure

Consider forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or corporation for your notary business. These structures offer several advantages:

• Personal Asset Protection: An LLC or corporation separates your personal assets from your business liabilities, shielding you from potential lawsuits or debts incurred by your notary services.
• Tax Benefits: Depending on your situation, certain business structures can provide tax advantages, such as pass-through taxation for LLCs.
• Credibility: A formal business structure can enhance your professional image and credibility with clients and partners.

Once you’ve chosen your business structure:

• Register your business name with your state’s Secretary of State office.
• Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS, which is necessary for tax purposes and opening business bank accounts.
• Apply for any required local business licenses or permits.

To maintain the legal separation between your personal and business finances:

• Open a dedicated business bank account.
• Obtain a business credit card for expenses related to your notary services.

3. Create a Business Plan

A well-structured business plan serves as a roadmap for your notary public business. Here’s how to create an effective plan:

• Define Your Services: Clearly outline the services you will offer. This might include general notarizations, mobile notary services, remote online notarization (RON), and specialized services like loan signings or real estate closings.
• Identify Your Target Market: Determine who your ideal clients are. This could include individuals, businesses, real estate agents, or legal professionals. Understanding your target market will help tailor your marketing efforts.
• Set Goals and Objectives: Establish short-term and long-term goals for your business. These could include the number of clients you want to serve each month or revenue targets. Setting measurable objectives will help you track your progress.
• Outline Your Marketing Strategy: Detail how you plan to attract clients. This may include online marketing, networking, and referrals. A solid marketing strategy is crucial for building your client base.
• Financial Projections: Estimate your startup costs, ongoing expenses, and potential income. This will help you understand the financial viability of your business and plan for growth.

4. Market Your Services

Effective marketing is essential for attracting clients and growing your notary business. Here are several strategies to consider:

• Create an Online Presence: Build a professional website that outlines your services, pricing, and contact information. Optimize your site for search engines to increase visibility. Consider including a blog with helpful tips related to notarization, which can also improve your SEO.
• Utilize Social Media: Leverage platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram to promote your services. Share informative content, client testimonials, and updates about your business. Engaging with your audience can help build trust and attract new clients.
• Network Locally: Attend local business events, community gatherings, and networking groups. Building relationships with real estate agents, lawyers, and financial institutions can lead to referrals. Consider joining local chambers of commerce or professional organizations related to your field.
• Offer Promotions: Consider running special promotions or discounts for first-time clients. This can encourage people to try your services and potentially lead to repeat business.
• Get Listed on Notary Directories: Register your services on online notary directories and platforms like Notary Rotary or 123Notary. These platforms can help you reach a broader audience and connect with clients actively seeking notary services.
• Ask for Referrals and Reviews: After completing a job, ask satisfied clients for referrals and reviews. Positive testimonials can significantly enhance your credibility and attract new clients.

FAQs

What are the startup costs associated with becoming a notary?

The initial costs typically include a surety bond, notary supplies (stamp and journal), and any required training or examination fees. These costs can vary by state but are generally low compared to many other business ventures.

Are there any specific fees I can charge as a notary?

Yes, notaries can charge fees for their services, which vary by state. For example, some states allow fees of $10 to $15 per notarization. Additional charges may apply for travel or other services, but these must comply with state regulations.

Is the income from notarization taxable?

Yes, income earned from notarization services is considered taxable ordinary income. However, it is generally exempt from self-employment tax, which means you may not need to pay self-employment tax on this income if it falls below a certain threshold.

Can I notarize documents for family members?

While notaries can notarize documents for family members, it is advisable to avoid doing so to prevent any potential conflicts of interest. Notaries should always remain impartial and avoid situations where they have a personal stake in the transaction.

How do I find clients for my notary services?

You can find clients through various methods, including networking with local businesses, joining online directories, advertising on social media, and partnering with law firms, banks, or real estate agencies. Building a strong online presence can also attract clients.

What are the benefits of becoming a notary public?

Benefits include flexible working hours, the potential for good supplemental income, the opportunity to help others during significant life events, and the ability to enhance your resume with a valuable skill set.

Anthony Smith

Anthony Smith is an internet entrepreneur. He created the Side Hustle Ideas Database to help people find side hustles for making extra money, with the potential of turning into a full-time income.

After graduating from the University of Pennsylvania with a business degree, he gained business experience at a consulting firm. At the same time, he tried various side hustles including freelance writing, blogging, and eCommerce. He managed to turn his side hustles into a full-time business, earning over $3 million. Now, he enjoys financial freedom and travels around the world as a digital nomad.