Wisconsin Notary Bond

The Wisconsin Notary Bond is a mandatory requirement for individuals appointed as notaries public in the state. This $500 surety bond ensures notaries adhere to ethical standards, perform their duties accurately, and protect the public from errors, negligence, or fraud.

If a notary’s misconduct results in financial loss, an affected party can file a claim against the bond for compensation. If a claim is paid, the notary must reimburse the surety company.

While the bond protects the public, it does not cover the notary personally. To safeguard themselves, notaries are encouraged to obtain Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance. These requirements, regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions, help uphold trust and accountability in notarial services across the state.

In Wisconsin, notaries must obtain a $500 surety bond, which typically costs between $35 and $55 for a four-year term (processing fees may apply). The bond must be purchased from a state-authorized surety company and submitted to the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) to complete the notary commission.

In addition to the bond, notaries should plan for other expenses, including:

• One-time Bond Processing Fee: $100
• Notary Application Fee: $20, payable to the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions.
• Notary Seal or Stamp: Around $25, depending on the provider 
• Notary Journal: $10 to $15 (optional but recommended for accurate record-keeping).
• Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance: Optional, typically $20-$100 depending on coverage.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions website or contact the Notary Section directly.

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: Wisconsin Notary Public Surety Bond
• Bond Amount: $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 confirm 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 for submission with your notary application.

To maintain your Wisconsin notary commission, you must renew your $500 notary bond every four years. This bond ensures compliance with state regulations and protects the public from errors or misconduct.

Renewing your bond involves obtaining a new $500 surety bond from an authorized provider and submitting it along with your Notary Public Commission Renewal Application to the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI). The $20 renewal fee must also be paid to complete the process.

It's recommended to start the renewal process 30-60 days before your current commission expires to avoid any lapses.

Becoming a Wisconsin Notary Public allows you to serve as an impartial witness for legal and business transactions. To qualify, applicants must meet specific eligibility, bonding, and application requirements set by the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions.

Eligibility Requirements:

• A $500 surety bond is required for a four-year term.
• Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
• Have at least the equivalent of an eighth-grade education
• Must be a U.S. citizen or a permanent legal resident.
• Must either reside in Wisconsin or be employed in the state for at least 30 days before applying.
• Must not have any felony convictions (unless civil rights have been restored).

Application Process:

• Complete the Notary Application online through the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions.
• Study for and pass the Notary Tutorial Exam with a minimum score of 90%.
• Obtain a $500 surety bond from a state-authorized surety provider.
• Notarize the Oath of Office and submit it along with the bond.
• Pay the required fees (application and bond fees).
• Receive your notary commission certificate after approval.
• Purchase a notary seal and journal (journal is optional but recommended for record-keeping).

To become a Remote Online Notary (RON) in Wisconsin, you must first be a commissioned notary public. Once commissioned, you can apply for RON authorization through the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) by submitting the required application and fees.

Wisconsin law requires RONs to use state-approved Remote Online Notarization (RON) platforms that meet security, identity verification, and recordkeeping requirements. A list of approved providers is available on the DFI website.

Remote notarization in Wisconsin is governed by Wisconsin Statute 140.145, which outlines requirements for identity verification, audio-video recording, and electronic document management. The maximum fee for a remote notarization is $25 per act, as set by Emergency Rule EmR2005.

For official requirements and updates, visit the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) website.