Notary Public Bond in Wisconsin

What this bond requires in Wisconsin

Wisconsin requires a $500 notary bond for all 4-year notary public commissions. A blanket bond does not satisfy the requirement; a specific $500 notary bond must be filed with DFI. Once filed, the bond cannot be cancelled and expires with the 4-year commission. Permanent commissions (available to Wisconsin attorneys) do not require a bond.

Who requires it

The notary public bond is required by the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions - Notary Public, Trademark and Apostille Unit under Wis. Stat. ch. 140 (Notarial Acts) and Wis. Admin. Code DFI-Not 1-2.

How to file in Wisconsin

Applicant purchases a $500 notary bond from an insurance company, completes the DFI notary application, passes the online notary tutorial exam (if required), and submits the application, bond, and oath to the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions for issuance of the 4-year commission.

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FAQ

Common questions

Is a notary public bond required in Wisconsin?

Yes. Wisconsin requires notary public bonds issued by an admitted surety. The required amount is $500.

How much is the bond in Wisconsin?

The bond amount is $500. Your annual premium is a small percentage of that, based on credit and experience.

Who requires the bond?

The bond is required by the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions - Notary Public, Trademark and Apostille Unit.

How is the bond filed?

Applicant purchases a $500 notary bond from an insurance company, completes the DFI notary application, passes the online notary tutorial exam (if required), and submits the application, bond, and oath to the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions for issuance of the 4-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.