A California Notary Bond is a mandatory California surety bond required for individuals seeking a notary public commission in the state of California. This bond protects the public from financial losses caused by errors, negligence, or misconduct by a notary during the performance of their official duties. Here's a detailed guide on the bond's purpose, costs, and application process.
The California Notary Bond is a $15,000 surety bond required by the state for all commissioned notaries. The bond ensures notaries fulfill their responsibilities in compliance with California state laws and provides financial protection to individuals harmed by a notary’s actions.
The California Secretary of State requires the bond to:
While the bond protects the public, it does not cover the notary personally. Notaries are responsible for reimbursing the surety for any claims paid out.
All individuals applying for or renewing a notary public commission in California must obtain a $15,000 notary bond. This includes:
Without a valid bond, the Secretary of State will not issue or renew a notary public commission.
The California Notary Bond involves three parties:
If a notary commits an error or violates the law, resulting in financial loss to an individual, the injured party can file a claim against the bond. The surety investigates the claim and, if valid, compensates the claimant up to the bond amount. The notary is then required to reimburse the surety for the amount paid.
The cost of a California Notary Bond, or the bond premium, is a fraction of the $15,000 bond amount. Notaries can expect to pay:
Many providers bundle the bond with Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance, which protects the notary from personal liability for unintentional mistakes. E&O insurance is optional but strongly recommended.
Select a licensed and reputable surety bond company offering California Notary Bonds.
Submit an application that includes your personal and contact details, as well as your notary commission information.
Pay the premium to activate your bond.
After receiving your bond, file it with the county clerk’s office in the county where you will take your oath of office. This must be completed within 30 days of the start of your commission.
To remain compliant as a California notary:
Failure to meet these requirements may result in the suspension or revocation of your commission.
No, the bond protects the public. If a claim is paid, the notary must reimburse the surety. E&O insurance is recommended for personal protection.
Yes, credit checks are typically not required for notary bonds, making them accessible to most applicants.
If you do not file your bond with the county clerk within 30 days, your notary commission will be invalid.
No, Errors and Omissions insurance is optional but highly recommended for protecting yourself from financial liability due to unintentional mistakes.
The California Notary Bond is a critical requirement for obtaining or renewing a notary public commission in the state. It ensures notaries comply with state laws and provides financial protection to the public. By securing the bond and following state guidelines, you can confidently perform your notary duties while maintaining compliance.
In California, a surety bond is often required by law to protect consumers and the general public, help guarantee performance on a contract, or ensure compliance with regulations. The exact reason you might need a surety bond depends on your situation—most commonly, individuals or businesses are required to obtain a surety bond if they are:
Certain professions (e.g., contractors, auto dealers, mortgage brokers) must post a surety bond to be licensed in California. The bond protects customers and the state by ensuring that the licensed professional will abide by regulations and fulfill their obligations ethically and legally.
If you are performing public works or government construction projects, you might be required to post a surety bond. This type of bond guarantees that you will complete the project as per the agreed contract and meet all legal and regulatory requirements.
In some professions where businesses or individuals handle clients’ money or assets (e.g., escrow agents, fiduciaries, notaries), California requires bonds to safeguard those funds or property in case of malpractice or misconduct.
Local jurisdictions sometimes mandate surety bonds for activities that carry particular risks—such as certain building, moving, or environmental permits—to ensure compliance with municipal codes and protect public safety and property.
Overall, surety bonds offer a layer of protection to the public and encourage businesses to act responsibly and abide by all applicable laws and regulations. If a bonded individual or business fails to fulfill their legal or contractual obligations, claims can be made against the bond to cover damages or losses up to the bond amount.
Obtaining a California surety bond is quick and straightforward with SuretyNow. Here’s how our experts help you through the nation’s fastest bonding process:
Contact the obligee requiring the bond to determine which California surety bond you need.
Fill out our simple application here at SuretyNow for instant review.
We’ll promptly evaluate your application and provide a competitive quote.
Once you pay the bond premium, we’ll issue your California surety bond right away.
Finalize the process by signing and filing your bond with the obligee.
Rely on SuretyNow for a seamless experience every time you need a California surety bond.
