Texas Notary Bond
What is a Texas notary bond?
A notary bond is required as part of the licensing process for individuals who wish to become a notary public in the state of Texas. The bond serves as a financial guarantee that the notary will fulfill their duties under the law and won’t engage in any fraudulent or illegal activities. It protects the public from monetary losses if their notary makes a mistake or violates the surety contract.
By purchasing a notary bond, you and your surety company guarantee the Texas Secretary of State that you’ll pay any losses incurred by the public. You could potentially face claims up to $10,000 during your commission term if you break the law.
Get Your Notary Bond in Texas:
Quick Takeaways
- A notary bond is required as part of the licensing process for individuals who wish to become a notary public in the state of Texas.
- A notary in Texas must maintain a $10,000 surety bond during their 4-year commission term.
- By purchasing a notary bond, you guarantee the Secretary of State that you’ll pay any losses incurred by the public.
Who needs Texas notary bonds?
Individuals who wish to become a notary in Texas must obtain a notary bond. This bond is necessary to protect the public from any errors or misconduct during the notarization process. The bond provides a financial safeguard if a notary public is found to violate the law. Notaries in Texas must maintain a $10,000 surety bond during their 4-year commission term.
How much does a Texas notary bond cost?
Typically, the bond amount is $10,000, and the premium can range from $100 to $150 per year.
How do I file my notary bond?
To obtain a Texas notary bond, applicants must find a reputable surety company authorized to issue bonds in the state (like ZipBonds). The applicant must provide personal information, including their name and address and information about their notary public commission. Once approved, the surety provider will issue the bond. Applicants can send their surety bond (along with other application paperwork) to the following address:
- Notary Public Unit
- P.O. Box 13375
- Austin, TX 78711
Applicants may alternatively deliver the application packet in person to the following location:
- James Earl Rudder Office Building
- 1019 Brazos
- Austin, TX 78701
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I become a notary public in Texas?
To become a notary public in Texas, individuals must meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a legal resident of Texas
- Be able to read and write in English
- Not have a criminal record
- Complete a notary education course approved by the state
- Pass a state-administered exam
- Complete the Application for Appointment as Texas Notary Public form
- Obtain a notary bond
- Pay a $21 filing fee
- Purchase a notary seal and record book
Why would someone file a claim on this bond?
A claim may be filed on a Texas notary bond if the notary public violates the law, such as by engaging in fraudulent activities or failing to notarize a document properly. The bond provides financial protection to those harmed by the notary’s actions.
How to Get Your Notary Bond in Texas
ZipBonds offers the fastest and most secure option for getting the surety bonds you need. Our all-digital platform is intuitive and straightforward. Apply online or call us at (888) 435-4191 to get bonded in a flash!
About ZipBonds.com
Founders Ryan Swalve and Zach Mefferd formed the vision for ZipBonds.com when they realized how overly complicated it was to help clients place surety. The frustration of being unable to incorporate the technology they’d used in other insurance-focused projects left them thinking “there has to be a better way.”
Fast forward a couple of years, and that better way is the impetus of everything we do at ZipBonds. We constantly look for innovative ways to improve the bonding process for our clients and agents. Our team comprises individuals who understand all angles of surety – for companies, agencies, and individuals. Incorporating everyone’s point of view to improve the process while simultaneously integrating cutting-edge technology is what sets our business apart.