Pennsylvania Notary Bond


What is a notary bond?

A notary bond is a three-party obligation. The bonding company guarantees to the Pennsylvania Secretary of State's office that it will pay, on behalf of a commissioned Pennsylvania notary, any losses incurred by the public up to $10,000 during the notary’s commission term. The surety company will then demand reimbursement from the notary in the event of such paid losses. 

Who needs a Pennsylvania notary bond?

Pennsylvania law requires individuals applying for or renewing a notary commission to maintain a four-year, $10,000 notary bond during their notary commission term as a guaranty that the notary will perform his or her notary duties faithfully.

Where can I purchase a bond?

Pennsylvania law requires notaries to purchase a Pennsylvania notary bond in the amount of $10,000 from a licensed surety company authorized to do business in Pennsylvania. For your protection, all of our bonds are written by CNA Surety, one of the nation's largest surety companies, which maintains the highest reputation in customer satisfaction and claim-handling service. You can purchase a notary bond from AAN by clicking on the button below.

How do I file my notary bond with the Pennsylvania Secretary of State?

Once you receive your appointment notice from the Pennsylvania Department of State, you must appear before the recorder of deeds to file your notary bond, notary commission, oath of office, and a specimen of your signature.

Notary bonds and errors and omissions insurance policies provided by this insurance agency, American Association of Notaries, Inc., are underwritten by Western Surety Company, Universal Surety of America, or Surety Bonding Company of America, which are subsidiaries of CNA Surety.