What is a Texas Notary Public Bond?
Learn about one of the most important requirements for becoming a Notary Public in Texas!
Before the performance of duties assigned to him, a notary public is required to post a surety bond. The purpose of such is to ascertain that the individual will fulfill his role in a proper manner and under the obligation of the oath that he has taken.
The bond, stated in Chapter 406 of the Government Code, must be approved by the secretary of state and issued by a Texas-authorized surety bond company such as Surety Bond Authority.
How much is the bond amount and what are the bond conditions?
The notary public shall post a $10,000 surety bond according to the Government Code. The bond shall be made payable to the governor, and shall be deposited in the office of the secretary of state.
As long as an agreement has been established between a surety bond company and the notary public, the secretary of state will accept an electronic filing of the surety bond.
How can I acquire this bond?
Here are the easy steps in acquiring the bond that you need:
- Determine the right surety bond form that you need. In this case, that would be the General Information Application for Appointment as Texas Notary Public Form 2301.
- Send an application to us. You will go through a prequalification process that will be conducted by an expert underwriter. During this time, you will be asked to submit important materials needed for the bond. This will include your financial history, your job history, and your credit score.
- Once we have thoroughly assessed all of those, you will be given a quote that is tailor-made just for you. Those who have an excellent credit score can pay as little as 1% of the bond amount.
- You will be asked to sign an indemnity agreement. After this, the surety bond company will execute the bond and send it to you.
If you need further information about this, send us your questions here!
How can one be eligible in becoming a Notary Public?
The person who is commissioned or appointed to become a Notary Public should be:
- At least 18 years old
- A Texas resident
- Has not been convicted of felony or crime that involves moral turpitude
What are the other requirements for becoming a Notary Public?
- Meet the eligibility requirements
- You must submit a duly completed application form
- Execute a statement
- Pay the necessary fees
What are the necessary fees?
- Pay an application filing fee of $21 to the secretary of state
- Pay a $10 bond filing and approval fee to the secretary of state
- Pay a fee of $1 to the secretary of state for hiring an investigator, and for preparing and distributing the required materials to the notary public
- Pay $10 to the secretary of state for notary public commission
Are you ready to start the surety bond process? Talk to one of our experts today!