Washington Notary Bond

In Washington, notaries public must secure a $10,000 Notary Bond as part of their commission requirements. This bond serves as a financial safeguard, ensuring notaries comply with state laws and ethical standards.

If a notary’s mistake, negligence, or misconduct causes financial harm, an affected party can file a claim against the bond. If the claim is valid and the surety company pays it, the notary is responsible for reimbursing the full amount.

While the bond protects the public, it does not cover the notary personally. To mitigate financial risks, notaries are encouraged to obtain Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance. The Washington Department of Licensing (DOL) regulates notarial laws and bond requirements to uphold industry professionalism and trust.

In Washington, notaries public must obtain a $10,000 surety bond, which typically costs between $35 and $55 (processing fees may be applied) for a four-year term. The exact price varies by surety provider. To fulfill commission requirements, the bond must be purchased from a state-authorized provider and submitted to the Washington Department of Licensing (DOL)

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

• One-time Bond Processing Fee: $100
• Notary Application Fee: $40 (paid to the Washington Department of Licensing)
• Notary Seal or Stamp: $20 - $40, depending on the provider
• Notary Journal: $10 - $50 (optional but recommended)
• Errors and Omissions (E&O) Insurance: Costs vary based on coverage and provider

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: Washington 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 Washington notary bond, you must purchase a new $10,000 surety bond from a state-authorized provider before your current commission expires. Once obtained, submit the bond along with your notary renewal application to the Washington Department of Licensing (DOL). The renewal process ensures your commission remains active without any lapses.

Be sure to complete the renewal before your expiration date to maintain your notarial authority.

To become a notary public in Washington, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria and follow the state’s commissioning process.

To qualify as a Washington notary, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident.
• Be a resident of Washington or a non-resident who conducts business or is employed in the state.
• Be able to read and write in English.
• Have no felony convictions, unless pardoned or civil rights have been restored.

Application process:

1. Obtain a $10,000 Surety Bond – The bond must be valid for a four-year term and issued by a state-authorized provider.
2. Complete the Notary Public Application – Submit your application to the Washington Department of Licensing (DOL).
3. Pay the Application Fee – The current fee is $40, payable to the DOL.
4. Submit Required Documents – Along with the application, provide proof of your surety bond and any other required paperwork.
5. Receive Your Notary Commission Certificate – Once approved, you will receive your official notary commission.

Responsibilities After Commissioning:

• Use an Official Notary Seal or Stamp – This is required for notarizing documents.
• Maintain a Notary Journal – A journal is recommended for all notarizations and required for electronic or remote notarizations.
• Follow Washington Notary Laws – Notaries must adhere to all state regulations to ensure the integrity of notarial acts.

Meeting Washington’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 in Washington, notaries must first hold a valid traditional notary commission, which includes obtaining a $10,000 surety bond valid for a four-year term. ​

Steps to Obtain Electronic Notary Endorsement:

1. Apply for Electronic Notary Endorsement:
    
   • Complete the "Notary Public Electronic Notarization Endorsement Application" form.
   • Submit the form along with a $15 fee to the Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL). This can be done online through the SecureAccess Washington (SAW) portal or by mailing the completed form and fee to the DOL.
2. Apply for Remote Online Notary Authorization:
    
   • After obtaining the electronic notary endorsement, send an email to [email protected] with the subject line "Remote Online Notary Endorsement Application."​
   • Include your full name, notary license number, the date you applied for the electronic notary endorsement, and the name of your chosen state-approved RON technology provider. ​

Once approved, you will receive confirmation from the DOL, authorizing you to perform electronic and remote notarizations. Ensure you renew your electronic notary endorsement and RON authorization alongside your traditional notary commission every four years to remain compliant with state regulations.