Notary Public Bond in Maine

What this bond requires in Maine

Maine does not require a surety bond for notaries public. Commissions run 7 years (Maine SOS Notary Public Resources). After approval, the applicant must take the oath before a Dedimus Justice within 30 days and return the certificate of qualification to the Secretary of State within 45 days of appointment, or risk having to request reappointment within 90 days.

Who requires it

The notary public bond is required by the Maine Secretary of State, Bureau of Corporations, Elections and Commissions under 5 M.R.S. § 87; 4 M.R.S. ch. 19 (Notaries Public); Maine SOS Notary Rules 29-250 Ch. 1.

How to file in Maine

Apply through the Maine Secretary of State Total Notary Solution online portal, pay the statutory fee under 5 M.R.S. § 87, and pass the required exam. Upon approval, the Secretary of State mails a certificate of commission. The applicant has 30 calendar days from the date of appointment to appear before a Dedimus Justice to be sworn in, and 45 calendar days from the date of appointment to return the completed certificate of qualification to the Secretary of State. No surety bond filing is required.

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FAQ

Common questions

Is a notary public bond required in Maine?

No surety bond required to become a Maine notary public.

How much is the bond in Maine?

Maine does not publish a single flat amount. See the state-specific notes for how it is determined.

Who requires the bond?

The bond is required by the Maine Secretary of State, Bureau of Corporations, Elections and Commissions.

How is the bond filed?

Apply through the Maine Secretary of State Total Notary Solution online portal, pay the statutory fee under 5 M.R.S. § 87, and pass the required exam. Upon approval, the Secretary of State mails a certificate of commission. The applicant has 30 calendar days from the date of appointment to appear before a Dedimus Justice to be sworn in, and 45 calendar days from the date of appointment to return the completed certificate of qualification to the Secretary of State. No surety bond filing is required.

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.