Advantages of Becoming a Notary Public in Washington State
A Washington State notary public is a commissioned official who serves as an impartial witness to the signing of legal documents and who ensures those documents are properly executed. If you become a notary in Washington, you will serve as an impartial witness to the signing of trusts, affidavits, wills, real estate deeds, and more. The Washington notary serves a vital role in ensuring the integrity of documents and helping to prevent fraud.
There are five main advantages to becoming a notary public in Washington:
1- Becoming a notary may give you a hiring advantage.
Many workplaces have a regular need for notaries. This is especially true in the offices of lawyers, doctors, and accountants. Financial institutions such as banks and schools also regularly employ notaries. If you are already commissioned as a notary public in the state of Washington, you may have a hiring advantage over other candidates who are seeking the same job but who lack that extra credential. Be sure to mention that you are commissioned as a Washington notary public on your resume.
2- Self-employed Washington notaries can work flexible hours.
If you are not working as a notary for an employer, you may wish to be self-employed as a notary. In that case, you will be able to set your own schedule. This means you can continue to work a full-time job while supplementing your income with additional work as a notary. As a mobile Washington notary, for instance, you can travel to clients at their homes or places of business to notarize documents at a time that is convenient for you.
3- You can boost your income by becoming a notary signing agent.
A notary signing agent (NSA) guides clients through the complicated loan signing process and notarizes loan documents such as mortgages. The fees a Washington notary public can charge are limited and set by law. However, as a notary signing agent (also referred to as a loan signing agent), you will perform multiple notarizations at a single appointment. By doing so, you can make between $75 and $200 per appointment. Washing notary signing agents may also have the advantage of receiving a steady stream of work from the mortgage and loan industries.
4- You will be able to help people.
The calling of a notary public is a noble one. Notaries help deter fraud and prevent damages that can arise from inaccurate documentation. A Washington notary public also has the option to provide notary services for free to those who are in need and cannot afford them. You may, for example, wish to help your children’s school or your community by providing free or discounted notary services.
5- Becoming a notary is relatively inexpensive.
You don’t need a particular degree or lots of expensive supplies to become a Washington notary public. In fact, you can become a notary in Washington for less than $150. You need only pay a small application fee, order a notary stamp and journal, and pay to obtain the state-required $10,000 surety bond. Optionally, you can also take a notary training course and purchase E&O insurance.
How to Become a Notary in Washington State.
If you are thinking about becoming a notary in Washington State, consider the above five advantages. The American Association of Notaries has been helping individuals to become Washington notaries since 1994.
Click here for more information on how to become a notary in Washington State.
Legal Disclaimer: The American Association of Notaries is committed to providing accurate and up-to-date information. However, it is important to note that the information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as legal advice. We do not claim to be attorneys and do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information provided. It is your responsibility to know the appropriate notary laws governing your state. You should always seek the advice of a licensed attorney for any legal matters. In no event shall the American Association of Notaries, its employees, or contractors be liable to you for any claims, penalties, losses, damages, or expenses, howsoever arising, including, and without limitation, direct or indirect loss, or consequential loss, out of or in connection with the use of the information contained on any of the American Association of Notaries website pages. Notaries are advised to seek the advice of their state’s notary authorities or attorneys if they have legal questions.
Washington notary bonds and errors and omissions insurance policies provided by this insurance agency, the American Association of Notaries, Inc., are underwritten by Western Surety Company (established 1900). Kal Tabbara is a licensed insurance agent in Washington.