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 Connecticut
Connecticut does not require a notary bond. Notaries are appointed by the Secretary of the State for five-year terms, and the state notary manual says a notary may choose to buy a bond or errors and omissions insurance.
- A notary is personally liable for damages caused by their misconduct (Notary Public Manual, section 5.6).
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.