Notaries Public witness so many of our life-changing decisions, such as powers of attorney, estate, prenuptial agreements, real estate transactions and many other activities that enable our civil society to operate. Given the seriousness of their duties, Notaries are required by most states to obtain a notary bond for the protection of the public.
What Does A Notary Do?
Our society relies on Notaries Public to protect us from fraud and identity theft. Millions of people across the USA are appointed in their states to serve as Notary Publics. Their services are in big demand. In fact, the National Notary Association estimates that there is one Notary for every 72 people in the country.
Here’s how the National Notary Association describes the role:
While being a Notary might seem mundane, they witness and authenticate the signing of our most important transactions: mortgage documents, powers of attorney, contracts, adoption papers, advance medical directives and other dealings central to our lives and the economy. (Read more)
A Notary Public is required to obey set rules without the exercise of substantial discretion. A Notary must serve as an impartial witness, certifying the validity of documentation signings. Specifically, a Notary:
- Verifies the identity of the person signing a document.
- Verifies that there is no duress or intimidation dictating the signing.
- Ensures the signer knows what they are signing and is willingly signing it.
The public relies on Notaries to be neutral and to refrain from serving in circumstances where they have a private interest. Notaries take an oath to never decline service due to nationality, race, religion, sexual orientation, politics, or status as a non-customer.
What Is A Notary Bond?
According to the National Notary Association, “The bond ensures that, as a Notary, you will fulfill all obligations to protect the public from financial harm resulting from any wrongdoing on your part when performing notarial duties.”
If you plan on becoming a notary public anywhere in the country, we have an easy way to secure your notary bond. Colonial Surety Company is a leading provider of notary bonds. Our I-Bonds®, or instant surety bonds, are available for instant quote, purchase, print, or e-file. We offer a direct and digital way to obtain a notary bond. Trust Colonial Surety Company for our long history of service —and our agility and efficiency too. Get a notary bond quote online, fill out your information, and enter your payment method. It’s that easy! Click here to obtain your notary bond today.
Good To Know!
The National Association of Notaries annually names a “Notary of the Year.” This honor recognizes outstanding professional and ethical service that sets a standard for other notaries to emulate.
In 2020, Alan Warren, of the Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana received the honor. As reported in Bizmag, Mr. Warren served in the U.S. Air Force for 20 years. Upon retiring from duty, he returned as a civilian and is a very active member of the base community. As a Notary Public, in 2019 alone, Warren witnessed: 685 Special Powers of Attorney; 285 General Powers of Attorney; 35 Affidavits; and 18 Bills of Sale.