What a notary bond is
Many states require a notary public to have a bond before they're commissioned. It protects the public if the notary makes a mistake or commits misconduct. It doesn't protect the notary: errors and omissions insurance does that.
In Arizona
Arizona notaries must submit a $5,000 surety bond to the Secretary of State before a commission is issued, under A.R.S. § 41-269. The bond covers acts during the four-year commission.
- The bond must come from a surety licensed or authorized to do business in Arizona.
You need this bond if you're
- Someone applying to become a notary
- A notary renewing a commission
- An employer with staff who notarize documents
What the surety looks at
Basic personal details. Notary bonds usually don't need a detailed review.