Notary Public Surety Bond in Alabama

What this bond requires in Alabama

Alabama notaries are appointed and commissioned by the Probate Judge of the applicant county of residence for a 4-year term. Effective September 1, 2023, Act 2023-548 (SB322) increased the required surety bond from $25,000 to $50,000 and added a pre-commission training requirement administered by the Alabama Probate Judges Association and the Alabama Law Institute. The bond must be filed and recorded in the probate office before the notary may enter on the duties of the office.

Who requires it

The notary public surety bond is required by the Probate Judge of the applicant county of residence; statewide reference and roster maintained by the Alabama Secretary of State under Ala. Code Title 36, Chapter 20 (Notaries Public); Act 2023-548 (Alabama Revised Notary Public Act, eff. 9/1/2023).

How to file in Alabama

Applicant completes the state-mandated pre-commission training program, obtains a $50,000 surety bond from an Alabama-authorized surety, and submits the application, bond, and applicable fees to the Probate Judge of their county of residence. The probate judge records the bond and oath, and issues the four-year commission.

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FAQ

Common questions

Is a notary public surety bond required in Alabama?

Yes. Alabama requires notary public surety bonds issued by an admitted surety. The required amount is $50,000.

How much is the bond in Alabama?

The bond amount is $50,000. Your annual premium is a small percentage of that, based on credit and experience.

Who requires the bond?

The bond is required by the Probate Judge of the applicant county of residence; statewide reference and roster maintained by the Alabama Secretary of State.

How is the bond filed?

Applicant completes the state-mandated pre-commission training program, obtains a $50,000 surety bond from an Alabama-authorized surety, and submits the application, bond, and applicable fees to the Probate Judge of their county of residence. The probate judge records the bond and oath, and issues the four-year commission.

What does the bond cover?

Surety bonds protect the obligee, not the principal. If you fail to meet the obligation the bond guarantees, the surety pays the claim and recovers from you.

Is a surety bond the same as insurance?

No. Insurance protects you. A surety bond protects whoever required the bond. You repay the surety for any claim they pay.