Arkansas Notary Bond

In Arkansas, notaries public must obtain a $7,500 Notary Bond as part of their commissioning process. This bond ensures that notaries perform their duties ethically and in compliance with state laws.

If a notary makes an error or engages in misconduct that causes financial harm, the affected party can file a claim against the bond. The surety company may compensate the injured party, but the notary is responsible for reimbursing the surety for any claims paid.

It’s important to note that the bond does not protect the notary personally. To safeguard against personal liability, notaries are encouraged to purchase Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance.

The Arkansas Secretary of State oversees notarial practices to uphold integrity and professionalism statewide.

Arkansas notaries are required to obtain a $7,500 surety bond, costing between $35 and $55 for a ten-year term (processing fees may apply). The bond must be purchased from a state-authorized surety company and submitted to the Arkansas Secretary of State to finalize the notary commission.

In addition to the bond, notaries should budget for other expenses, such as:

• One-time Bond Processing Fee: $100
• Notary Application Fee: $20
• Notary Seal or Stamp: Approximately $20, depending on the provider 
• Notary Journal: Not required by law, but highly recommended for record-keeping. Cost varies by provider.
• County Clerk Filing Fees: The fee to file an Arkansas notary bond at the county clerk's office is usually $15 for the first page and $5 for each additional page

Meeting these financial requirements ensures that Arkansas notaries remain compliant with state laws and have the necessary resources to perform their duties correctly. To obtain the latest updates and official guidelines, visit the Arkansas Secretary of State’s website or reach out to the Notary Office.

Easily apply using one of these convenient methods:

1. Apply for Your Bond

Choose one of the following convenient application methods:

• Online Application – Complete a secure online application anytime, 24/7, in just minutes.
• Call Us at (888)-592-6631 – Our bond specialists are available to assist you and answer any questions.

To apply, you’ll need:

• Bond Name: Arkansas Notary Public Surety Bond
• Bond Amount: $7,500 (as required by the state)
• Email and Contact Information

2. Receive Your Quote

After submitting your application, you'll receive an instant bond quote. Review the details for accuracy, and if any adjustments are needed, our team is ready to assist.

3. Purchase Your Bond

Once you approve the quote, complete your purchase by paying the invoice and signing the required documents online. Your official bond will be emailed to you within minutes, ready to be submitted with your notary application.

The Arkansas Notary Bond is a $7,500 surety bond required for all notaries public to secure their ten-year commission term. This bond protects the public from financial losses resulting from a notary’s errors or misconduct.

To renew your Arkansas notary commission, you must purchase a new ten-year, $7,500 notary bond from a state-authorized surety provider and submit it with your renewal application to the Arkansas Secretary of State’s Office. Additionally, you must review Arkansas notary law, pass the notary public exam, complete the oath of office, and obtain a new notary stamp.

The renewal window opens before your current commission expires, so be sure to complete the process on time to avoid a lapse in your notarial authority. Once your renewal is approved, you will receive confirmation of your extended commission.

Becoming a notary public in Arkansas is a straightforward process, but it requires meeting specific qualifications and following the necessary steps to obtain a commission.

Eligibility: Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, at least 18 years old, and able to read and write English. No felony convictions or revoked notary commissions in the past 10 years. Arkansas residents or those working in the state (including military spouses) can apply.

Bond Requirement: A $7,500 surety bond is required, including for renewals.

Application Process:

1. Create an account on the Notary Management System.
2. Pass a multiple-choice exam (minimum 80%).
3. Complete the online application and notarize it.
4. Submit the application, bond, and $20 fee to the Secretary of State.

Approval & Commission:

• If approved, you’ll receive two oath of commission certificates.
• Take both to your county’s recorder of deeds, sign them, and pay a filing fee.
• Submit one certificate to the Secretary of State to activate your commission.

Notary Seal: After receiving your notary ID card, purchase a notary stamp.

For more information, check the Arkansas Notary Public & eNotary Handbook

In Arkansas, notaries public who wish to perform Remote Online Notarizations (RON) or electronic notarizations must first hold an active traditional notary commission. This includes obtaining a $7,500 surety bond for a ten-year term to ensure compliance with state laws and protect the public from potential errors or misconduct.

To apply for RON or e-notary authorization, notaries must:

1. Complete and submit an Electronic Notary Registration Form to the Arkansas Secretary of State.
2. Select a state-approved RON technology provider that meets Arkansas' security, identity verification, and recordkeeping requirements.

Once approved, the notary will receive confirmation from the Secretary of State, allowing them to begin performing electronic and remote notarizations.

Notaries must renew their e-notary or RON status alongside their traditional commission and stay up to date with any changes in state regulations or technology standards.