Arizona Notary Bond

An Arizona Notary Bond is a type of surety bond required by the state to ensure that notaries perform their duties ethically and accurately. It serves as a financial guarantee that protects the public from errors, omissions, or fraudulent acts committed by a notary.

The Arizona Secretary of State regulates the notary bond requirement, ensuring that all notaries adhere to legal and ethical standards.

If a notary is negligent or engages in improper notarization or fraud, an affected party can file a claim against the bond for compensation up to $5,000. For example, if a notary wrongfully notarizes a forged signature, the injured party can seek reimbursement. If the surety company pays the claim, the notary is responsible for repaying the amount.

While the notary bond protects the public, it does not cover the notary against personal liability. To safeguard themselves from potential claims, many notaries purchase E&O insurance. This optional coverage typically ranges from $10,000 to $100,000 in protection.

In Arizona, notaries are required to obtain a $5,000 surety bond as part of their notary commission process. This bond is valid for a 4-year term and serves as a financial guarantee to protect the public from potential fraudulent acts committed by the notary.

The Tennessee notary bond costs as low as $35 to $55 (processing fees may be applied) and must be purchased from a state-approved surety provider before submitting your notary application.

In addition to the bond and optional insurance, notaries should also budget for other expenses, such as:

• One-time Bond Processing Fee: $100
• Notary Application Fee: $43 to the Arizona Secretary of State.
• Notary Seal and Journal: $20 to $50, depending on the provider.
• Training or Notary Courses (if desired): $20 to $100, depending on the course provider.

Obtaining an Arizona notary bond is a simple process that involves three easy steps:

1. Apply for Your Bond

Choose one of the following convenient application methods:

• Apply for a bond online - Our online bond application is available 24/7. It usually takes just a few minutes to submit your information.
• Call Us (888)-592-6631 - Contact our bond specialists at (888)-592-6631 for assistance with your application and answers to any questions.

When applying, you will need:

• Bond name: Arizona Notary Public Surety Bond
• Bond amount: $5,000 (required by the state)
• Email and contact information

2. Get a Quote

After submitting your application, you’ll receive an instant bond quote. Review it carefully to ensure accuracy. If you notice any errors or have questions, our team is happy to assist you.

3. Purchase Your Bond

Once you’re satisfied with the quote, you can easily pay your invoice and sign the documents online. After completing the purchase, you’ll receive the original bond l within a few minutes via email, ready to submit with your notary application.

Before renewing your Arizona notary commission, you must obtain a new $5,000 surety bond from an authorized insurance or surety provider. This bond is required for your 4-year term and protects the public from notary errors or misconduct.

Ensure you purchase your new bond before submitting your renewal application to the Arizona Secretary of State. If your bond expires, you will need to apply as a new notary instead of renewing.

To obtain an Arizona Notary Bond, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a legal resident of Arizona or have a place of employment in the state
• Have no felony convictions (unless civil rights have been restored)
• Be able to read and write in English
• Obtain a $5,000 surety bond valid for four years
• Complete and submit the Arizona Notary Public Application
• Attach the original bond to the application
• Pay the $43 application filing fee

While Arizona does not mandate formal training or testing, it is strongly recommended for new notaries to complete an educational course. This training helps applicants understand state laws, ethical standards, and proper procedures for performing notarial acts.

Arizona allows notaries to become Remote Online Notaries (RON) by completing an additional authorization process. To qualify:

• Be an active commissioned notary in Arizona.
• Obtain a $25,000 electronic surety bond.
• Select and register with a state-approved RON technology provider.
• Submit an application for electronic notary authorization to the Secretary of State.

Once approved, you can perform notarizations remotely using secure online platforms.