Nebraska Notary Bond

A Nebraska Notary Bond is a $15,000 surety bond required for notaries public in the state. It ensures that notaries follow Nebraska laws and perform their duties correctly.

If a notary’s mistake or misconduct causes financial harm, an affected party can file a claim against the bond. However, the notary must repay any amount covered by the surety company.

This bond protects the public, not the notary. For personal protection against liability, notaries often purchase Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance. The Nebraska Secretary of State oversees the bond requirements and notarial practices.

In Nebraska, notaries public must secure a $15,000 surety bond as part of their commissioning process. The cost of a Nebraska notary bond typically ranges between $35 and $55 for a four-year term (processing fees may be applied). This bond serves as a financial protection measure, ensuring that notaries adhere to state laws and uphold ethical standards in their duties.

Notaries are required to obtain this bond from a state-approved surety company and submit it to the Nebraska Secretary of State when applying for or renewing their commission.

Beyond the notary bond, additional expenses may include:

• One-time Bond Processing Fee: $100
• Application Fee: $35
• State Filing Fee : A $30 state filing fee is required to submit your notary application.
• Notary Journal: While not mandatory, the state recommends keeping a journal. Prices range from $10 - $15 depending on the supplier.

These costs help ensure that Nebraska notaries comply with state regulations and are equipped with the necessary tools to perform their official duties. For official guidelines, visit the Nebraska Secretary of State’s website.

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: Nebraska 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 a bond quote immediately. Review the details for accuracy, 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 Nebraska notary bond, start by obtaining a new $15,000 surety bond from a state-approved surety company. Next, complete the Notary Public Renewal Application, which is available on the Nebraska Secretary of State’s website. Once your application is filled out, submit it along with the new bond and applicable fees to the Nebraska Secretary of State for processing. Additionally, check whether your notary seal and journal need to be updated, as these tools must comply with state regulations.

It is strongly recommended that notaries begin the renewal process well before their commission expires to avoid any interruptions in service. For the most up-to-date information and official guidance, visit the Nebraska Secretary of State’s website.

To become a Nebraska Notary Public, you must meet the following qualifications:

• Be at least 19 years old.
• Be a U.S. citizen or a qualified alien.
• Be a resident of Nebraska or reside in a bordering state with a regular place of work or business in Nebraska.
• Have no felony convictions or any crimes involving fraud or dishonesty within the last five years.

Step 1: Take and Pass the Nebraska Notary Exam

1. Go to the Nebraska Notary Exam link on the Secretary of State’s website.
2. Review the Notary Statutes, Frequently Asked Questions, and Rules and Regulations to prepare for the exam.
3. The exam consists of 20 questions, and you must achieve at least 85% to pass. You have three attempts to pass.
4. After passing, you’ll receive a digital passing certificate, valid for 90 days. Save this certificate as a PDF for uploading during your application.

Step 2: Obtain a $15,000 Notary Surety Bond

1. Obtain a $15,000 Notary Surety Bond from a Nebraska-approved insurance agent or online provider. The Secretary of State does not provide bonds.
2. The bond must reference your home address and be signed twice: once as the principal and once in front of another notary public when taking the oath of office. Signatures must be consistent.
3. Errors and omissions insurance is optional, and proof is not required for the application.

Step 3: Complete the Nebraska Notary Public Online Application

1. Log into the Secretary of State’s Online Notary Portal (create an account if you don’t have one).
2. Complete the online application for an initial commission or an amendment for expired notaries.
3. Upload your exam certificate, bond, and other documents (if required).
4. Pay the $30 filing fee using a credit/debit card or eCheck (State employees may use IBT).
5. If any information is missing, save the application as a draft and finish later through the “My Work Queue” section. You’ll receive an email when your application is processed.

Step 4: Download Your Commission Certificate

After approval, log into the portal and download your new Commission Certificate and print your certificate and take it to an office supply store to order your notary ink stamp seal, which must include:

• State of Nebraska
• General Notary or General Notarial
• Your name as commissioned
• Expiration date of your commission

You can also apply for In-person Electronic Notary or Online Notary services while applying for your initial commission.

For the most up-to-date information and official guidelines, visit the Nebraska Secretary of State’s website.

Nebraska allows notaries to perform remote online notarization (RON), enabling them to notarize documents electronically for signers located anywhere. To become a Remote Online Notary (RON) or Electronic Notary (E-Notary) in Nebraska, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Hold a valid Nebraska Notary Commission.
• Complete the required educational training.
• Pay the necessary fee.

Once eligible, follow these steps to complete the process:

Step 1: Complete the Training
Complete the required training course, available through the Secretary of State’s Office.

Step 2: Pass the Exam
Take and pass the Online Notary Exam with a score of 85%. The exam consists of 20 questions, and you have three attempts. After passing, save the digital certificate.

Step 3: Complete the Online Application

• Log into the Online Notary Portal.
• Upload your exam certificate and documents.
• Pay the $50 filing fee via credit/debit card or eCheck.
• Submit the application.

Step 4: Download Approval Letter
After approval, download your approval letter from the portal. Print it and provide it to your solution provider to set up your seal. The seal must include your name, identifying number, and expiration date.