The Kansas Notary Bond is a mandatory surety bond required for individuals applying to become a notary public in the state of Kansas. This bond ensures notaries adhere to state laws and provides financial protection to the public in the event of errors, negligence, or misconduct. Here’s a detailed guide to understanding the bond, its requirements, costs, and application process.
The Kansas Notary Bond is a $12,000 surety bond required by the state for all commissioned notaries. It serves as a financial guarantee that the notary will perform their duties in compliance with Kansas state laws and regulations.
The bond is required to:
While the bond protects the public, it does not shield the notary from personal liability. Notaries are responsible for reimbursing the surety for any valid claims paid out.
All individuals applying for or renewing a notary public commission in Kansas must obtain a $12,000 notary bond. This includes:
Without this bond, the Kansas Secretary of State will not issue or renew a notary public commission.
The Kansas Notary Bond involves three parties:
If a notary’s negligence or misconduct causes financial harm 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 ($12,000). The notary must then reimburse the surety for the claim amount and any associated costs.
The bond premium, or the cost to the notary, is a small percentage of the $12,000 bond amount. Typically:
Many surety bond providers also offer bundled packages that include Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance. While the bond protects the public, E&O insurance protects the notary from personal liability for unintentional mistakes or omissions.
Choose a licensed and reputable surety bond company offering Kansas Notary Bonds. Compare rates and coverage options to find the best provider.
Provide your personal and contact information, as well as details about your notary commission.
Pay the premium to activate your bond.
File the bond with the Kansas Secretary of State as part of your notary application or renewal process.
To maintain compliance as a Kansas notary public:
Failure to comply with these requirements can result in claims against your bond, fines, or suspension of your notary commission.
No, the bond protects the public. Notaries are responsible for reimbursing the surety for any claims paid. Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance is recommended to protect the notary from personal liability.
Yes, credit checks are generally not required for notary bonds, making them accessible to most applicants.
If you do not file your bond with the Kansas Secretary of State, your notary commission will not be valid.
No, Errors and Omissions insurance is optional but highly recommended to protect yourself from financial liability for unintentional errors or omissions.
The Kansas Notary Bond is an essential requirement for becoming or renewing a notary public commission in the state. It ensures compliance with state laws, protects the public from financial harm, and holds notaries accountable for their actions. By securing this bond and adhering to Kansas notary laws, you can serve the public confidently and professionally.
