Curious about earning extra cash as a notary? Becoming a notary public is a flexible and rewarding side hustle that lets you get paid for witnessing signatures and validating documents. It’s an in-demand service for individuals, businesses, and legal professionals, allowing you to work on your schedule and boost your income. This practical guide will walk you through exactly what it takes to start earning as a notary, from getting licensed to promoting your services and scaling your notarial business.
1. Understand Your State’s Notary Requirements
To begin, you need to understand the notary requirements for your state, as these rules can vary widely. Some states require training and testing, while others may ask for a background check or surety bond. Start by researching specific steps with reliable sources like the National Notary Association’s breakdown, or consult your state legal resources for the official details. Common requirements include being at least 18 years old, a legal resident, and having no felony convictions.
Knowing these essentials early will save time and money later on. Take notes and bookmark the official notary handbook for your state. As you gather information, pay attention to the necessary fees, training, and documentation you will need — this forms the foundation for your new side hustle as a notary public.
2. Apply for Your Notary Commission
Once you have researched requirements, it’s time to apply for your notary commission. This process usually means submitting an application through your state’s secretary of state or notary commissioning agency. Expect to provide your personal information, pay a fee, and possibly pass an exam or background check. Many states publish stepwise guidelines online; for example, New Jersey’s official notary application site is a good resource.
Some states also require you to obtain a surety bond and file your signature with a county office. Be thorough and double-check every part of the application—mistakes could delay the process. While waiting for approval, take the time to review state notary training or sample exams shared on sites like Notaries.com to get fully prepared.
3. Gather Your Notary Tools and Supplies
As an official notary public, you will need the right tools to perform your duties legally. Essential supplies include a notary stamp or seal, a record-keeping journal, and a quality pen. Some states mandate a specific style of notary seal or a tamper-evident journal, which you can find explained by vendors like Notary Public Stamps. Starting with high-quality, compliant supplies makes you look professional and builds trust with your clients.
It’s also smart to research additional supplies if you want to offer mobile notary services. Portable cases, extra pens, and secure storage for sensitive documents will let you work on the go. For setup inspiration, review tips from recent blog posts by experienced notaries, such as this practical notary business setup guide. Proper preparation ensures you are ready for every signing appointment.
4. Set Your Notary Rates and Services
Determining your rates is vital for making real money as a notary. Most states regulate how much you can charge for notary acts, so check your local statutes or refer to reputable sources like NerdWallet’s guide to notary fees. While the per-signature fee may seem modest, offering additional services can significantly increase your income. Consider mobile notary work, loan signing appointments, and after-hours availability.
Draft a simple price list that is easy for clients to understand. Be transparent about travel fees and extra charges—clarity helps you build repeat business. Want more ideas for maximizing your earnings? Check out alternative income sources in our article on ways to earn more quickly. The right mix of services and clear communication will set you apart in the competitive notary field.
5. Register with Notary Service Platforms
Expanding your visibility is essential to growing your client base. Start by registering with popular notary platforms such as Snapdocs, which connects notaries with signing service companies and escrow offices. Also, consider Notary Rotary for access to job leads and professional networking. These platforms often feature review and rating systems that help establish your reputation.
Many platforms require uploading proof of commission and a profile photo. Keep your details up to date and respond promptly to notifications for new signing opportunities. For even more reach, build a simple website or social profile that highlights your notarial expertise. These tools act as digital storefronts, helping you attract clients beyond your immediate area.
6. Market Your Notary Services Locally
Getting clients often starts in your own backyard. Leave business cards at local real estate offices, law firms, and community centers—a proven strategy according to experts at Entrepreneur magazine. Join your local chamber of commerce or attend networking events to meet small business owners who frequently need notaries.
Online marketing also matters. Use Google Business Profile to appear in local searches for notary services. Post helpful tips on your social channels and join neighborhood Facebook groups, where you can offer your help when locals ask for notary recommendations. For those who enjoy working with people but prefer a less crowded field, there are many side jobs suited to introverts as well.
7. Expand with Specialized Notary Services
Once established, look for ways to scale your notary side hustle by specializing in lucrative niches. Loan signing agent work, in particular, can boost your income significantly. Start by exploring resources on becoming a certified loan signing agent, which allows you to handle mortgage documents and work with real estate clients. In many areas, real estate notary services are in high demand and can command premium rates.
Taking advanced training opens even more doors. Medical document notarization, power of attorney work, and remote online notarization are fast-growing opportunities, especially for tech-savvy notaries. For more on venturing into long-term business niches, check out our insights on building a sustainable career. Specializing gives you a professional edge and lets you command higher fees as your expertise grows.
Becoming a notary can be a practical and profitable side hustle if you follow these steps. From licensing to marketing, each stage builds confidence and income. Keep learning, network regularly, and look for new ways to specialize to grow your business. With dedication, you can turn notary work into a reliable stream of extra income—or even a long-term career path.
