Notary Public Surety Bond in Washington

What this bond requires in Washington

RCW 42.45.200 requires every notary public commission applicant to file a $10,000 surety bond with the Department of Licensing prior to appointment. The bond must be issued by a surety authorized in Washington and runs concurrent with the four-year commission. The commission is invalid without an active bond on file.

Who requires it

The notary public surety bond is required by the Washington State Department of Licensing - Notary Public Program under RCW 42.45 (Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts); RCW 42.45.200.

How to file in Washington

Applicant obtains a four-year $10,000 surety bond, has the notary application form notarized, and mails the application along with a copy of the bond rider and the $30 fee ($45 if also seeking electronic records notary endorsement) to the Department of Licensing Notary Public Program at PO Box 35001, Seattle, WA 98124-3401.

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FAQ

Common questions

Is a notary public surety bond required in Washington?

Yes. Washington requires notary public surety bonds issued by an admitted surety. The required amount is $10,000.

How much is the bond in Washington?

The bond amount is $10,000. Your annual premium is a small percentage of that, based on credit and experience.

Who requires the bond?

The bond is required by the Washington State Department of Licensing - Notary Public Program.

How is the bond filed?

Applicant obtains a four-year $10,000 surety bond, has the notary application form notarized, and mails the application along with a copy of the bond rider and the $30 fee ($45 if also seeking electronic records notary endorsement) to the Department of Licensing Notary Public Program at PO Box 35001, Seattle, WA 98124-3401.

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.