Michigan Notary Bond

The Michigan Notary Bond is a mandatory financial safeguard for individuals seeking a notary public commission in the state of Michigan. To become a notary in Michigan, applicants must obtain a $10,000 Notary Bond, which guarantees that they will fulfill their official duties ethically and in compliance with state laws.

This bond serves to protect the public from financial loss due to a notary’s errors, negligence, or misconduct. If a legitimate claim is made against the bond, the surety company compensates the affected party. However, the notary is ultimately responsible for reimbursing the surety company for any amount paid out.

It is essential to understand that the Notary Bond does not provide personal protection to the notary. To safeguard against personal financial liability, Michigan notaries are encouraged to purchase Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance, which offers additional coverage beyond the bond’s limits.

The Michigan Secretary of State oversees notarial regulations, ensuring that notaries operate with integrity and maintain public trust across the state.

The cost of a Michigan Notary Bond typically ranges from $35 to $55 for a six-year term (additional fees may apply). Michigan requires notaries to obtain a $10,000 surety bond from a state-approved surety provider and submit it to the Michigan Secretary of State to ensure compliance and protection.

Additional Costs to Consider:

• One-time Bond Processing Fee: $100
• Notary Application Fee: $10 (paid to the Michigan Secretary of State)
• Notary Seal or Stamp: $20 - $50, depending on the provider
• Notary Journal: $10 - $50 (optional but recommended)
• Errors and Omissions (E&O) Insurance: Cost varies based on coverage and provider
   

While the notary bond protects the public from financial harm due to a notary’s errors or misconduct, it does not protect the notary personally. To safeguard against personal financial liability, Michigan notaries are encouraged to purchase E&O insurance, which provides coverage for unintentional mistakes.

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: Michigan Notary Public Surety Bond
• Bond Amount: $10,000 (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 carefully, and if any adjustments are needed, our team is here to assist you.

3. Purchase Your Bond

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

To renew your Michigan Notary Bond, you must purchase a new $10,000 surety bond from a state-approved provider before your current six-year notary commission expires.
 Once you obtain the new bond, you’ll need to complete a Notary Public Application and submit it, along with your bond and a $10 application fee, to the Michigan Department of State.

Key Steps for Renewal:

• Purchase a new $10,000 surety bond from a state-authorized provider.
• Complete the Notary Public Application and indicate you are renewing.
• File your bond with the county clerk in the county where you reside.
• Obtain the county clerk’s certification and submit it, along with your application and $10 fee, to the Michigan Department of State.

To avoid any lapses in your notarial authority, it’s crucial to complete the renewal process before your commission expires.

To become a notary public in Michigan, applicants must meet the state’s eligibility criteria and follow a specific application process through both the county clerk and the Secretary of State.

To qualify as a Michigan notary, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident
• Be a resident of Michigan or maintain a place of business in the state
• Be able to read and write English
• Have no felony convictions in the past 10 years involving dishonesty, fraud, or deceit related to notarial duties

Application Process:

1. Obtain a $10,000 Surety Bond – Purchase your bond from a state-authorized provider.
   Visit Your County Clerk’s Office – File your surety bond and have your application notarized and certified.
2. Submit the Application to the Secretary of State – Mail your completed and certified application, along with the $10 application fee, to the Michigan Department of State, Office of the Great Seal.
3. Receive Your Notary Commission Certificate – Once approved, you’ll receive your official commission.

Meeting Indiana’s notary requirements ensures that notaries operate legally and ethically while protecting the public. To maintain an active commission, notaries should stay informed about state regulations and renew their bond and commission before expiration.

To perform Remote Online Notarizations (RON) or Electronic Notarizations (E-Notarizations) in Michigan, notaries must first hold a valid traditional notary commission and meet state requirements for electronic notarization. Follow these steps to become an Electronic or Remote Online Notary in Michigan:

Hold an Active Michigan Notary Commission

Before applying for Electronic or Remote Online Notarization authorization, you must:

• Be a commissioned Michigan notary public
• Have a $10,000 notary bond (as required for traditional notaries)
• Be in good standing with the Michigan Secretary of State
   

Apply for Electronic Notary (E-Notary) Authorization

• Complete the Electronic Notary Authorization Application through the Michigan Secretary of State’s website
• Pay the required fee (currently $10 for E-Notary authorization)
• Ensure access to state-approved electronic notarization technology (software that complies with Michigan’s rules)
   

Apply for Remote Online Notary (RON) Authorization

After obtaining electronic notary authorization, you can apply for RON authorization:

• Apply separately through the Michigan Secretary of State’s website for RON approval
• Select a state-approved RON technology provider that meets Michigan’s security and compliance standards
• Complete training (if required by the provider)
• Once approved, you will receive authorization to perform remote notarizations using approved secure online platforms

Additional Notes:

• Remote Online Notary (RON) authorization is required for notarizing documents online with a signer not physically present.
• Ensure your platform complies with Michigan’s security and identity verification standards for RON.
• Notaries must retain records of RON transactions for at least 5 years.