Notary Public Bond in West Virginia

What this bond requires in West Virginia

West Virginia does not mandate a surety bond for notaries public. Under W. Va. Code § 39-4-20, applicants must be at least 18, a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, a West Virginia resident or employee, able to read and write English, and (for those commissioned after January 1, 2018) hold a high school diploma. The commission term is 5 years and the application fee is $52. The prior bond requirement under the former W. Va. Code § 29-4-9 was repealed; bonds and other assurances are now optional.

Who requires it

The notary public bond is required by the West Virginia Secretary of State, Business and Licensing Division under W. Va. Code § 39-4 et seq. (Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts); § 39-4-20 (qualifications).

How to file in West Virginia

Complete the online application through the West Virginia Secretary of State Business and Licensing portal, pass the required notary exam, and pay the $52 filing fee. No bond is required for filing. Upon approval, the Secretary of State issues a 5-year commission authorizing the notary to perform notarial acts throughout the state.

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FAQ

Common questions

Is a notary public bond required in West Virginia?

No surety bond required to become a West Virginia notary public (Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts, effective June 2018).

How much is the bond in West Virginia?

West Virginia 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 West Virginia Secretary of State, Business and Licensing Division.

How is the bond filed?

Complete the online application through the West Virginia Secretary of State Business and Licensing portal, pass the required notary exam, and pay the $52 filing fee. No bond is required for filing. Upon approval, the Secretary of State issues a 5-year commission authorizing the notary to perform notarial acts throughout the state.

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.