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 Florida
Florida notaries public must have a $7,500 bond approved and filed with the Department of State, under Fla. Stat. § 117.01. The commission term is four years.
- The bond is executed by a surety company authorized to do business in Florida.
- Online notaries have a higher bond requirement.
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.