South Carolina

Notary Public Bond in South Carolina

Requirements, filing process, and what you should expect to pay, without the broker pitch.

What this bond requires in South Carolina

South Carolina notaries public are not required to be bonded, per the SC Secretary of State official FAQs and Notary Public Reference Manual. Commissions are issued for a 10-year term. Notaries are not required to keep a journal, though it is strongly encouraged by the Secretary of State.

Who requires it

The notary public bond is required by the South Carolina Secretary of State, Business Filings Division under S.C. Code Title 26, Chapter 1 (Notaries Public and Acknowledgments).

How to file in South Carolina

Applicant completes the SC Notary Public Application, has it endorsed by a member of the General Assembly representing the applicant county of residence, and submits the application with the filing fee to the SC Secretary of State. Upon approval, the commission is sent to the county clerk of court, where the notary must take the oath of office and have the commission recorded before performing notarial acts.

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FAQ

Common questions

Is a notary public bond required in South Carolina?

South Carolina does not require a surety bond for notary public commissions.

How much is the bond in South Carolina?

South Carolina 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 South Carolina Secretary of State, Business Filings Division.

How is the bond filed?

Applicant completes the SC Notary Public Application, has it endorsed by a member of the General Assembly representing the applicant county of residence, and submits the application with the filing fee to the SC Secretary of State. Upon approval, the commission is sent to the county clerk of court, where the notary must take the oath of office and have the commission recorded before performing notarial acts.

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.

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