Notary Surety Bond: Washington State
What is a notary surety bond in Washington State?
A notary bond is required as part of the licensing process for individuals who wish to become a notary public in Washington State. 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.
Get Your Notary Bond in Washington State:
Quick Takeaways
- Washington State Legislature requires anyone applying for a notary certificate to file a notary bond with the Department of Licensing.
- If you break the law, you could face claims of up to $10,000 during your commission term.
- ZipBonds can issue these bonds instantly for just $100.
Who needs notary bonds in Washington State?
Washington State Legislature requires anyone applying for a notary certificate to file a notary bond with the Department of Licensing. Notaries must maintain a $10,000 surety bond that includes $5,000 of errors and omissions coverage during their 4-year commission.
This bond is necessary to protect the public from errors or misconduct during notarization. If you break the law, you could face claims of up to $10,000 during your commission term.
How much does a Washington notary bond cost?
The cost of a Washington notary bond can vary depending on several factors, including the applicant’s credit history and the surety company issuing the bond. The bond amount is typically $10,000, and the premium can range from $50 to $150 per year.
ZipBonds can issue these bonds instantly for just $100. Apply online or by phone with us to get bonded in minutes!
How do I file my notary bond with the Department of Licensing?
To obtain a Washington 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, address, and information about their notary public commission. Once approved, the surety provider will issue the bond.
Applicants can submit their surety bond (along with other application paperwork) either online or to the following address:
Notary Public Program
Department of Licensing
PO Box 3777
Seattle, WA 98124-3777
How do I become a notary public in Washington State?
To become a notary public in Washington, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be a U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident.
- Be able to read and write in English.
- Live or work in Washington.
- Obtain a notarized Oath of Office form and an electronic copy of a signed notary bond.
- Pay a $40 fee.
- Send documents to the Washington State Department of Licensing (via mail or online).
Frequently Asked Questions
Why would someone file a claim on this bond?
A claim may be filed on a Washington notary bond if the notary public violates the law 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.
Do I need to renew my bond?
You must renew your Washington state notary surety bond every four years – along with your notary commission. ZipBonds will notify you months in advance so you don’t miss your filing deadline.
How to Get Your Notary Bond in Washington State
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.