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 Illinois
Illinois notaries must file a $5,000 surety bond with a 4-year term under 5 ILCS 312/2-105. Notaries who perform remote or electronic notarizations need an added $25,000 bond.
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.