---
title: "What Is a Notary Bond? Meaning & Example | MCC Solutions"
description: "A surety bond some states require a notary to hold to protect the public from misconduct. A worked example and how it differs from errors and omissions."
url: "https://mcc-solutionsnj.com/notary/glossary/notary-bond"
---

Notary glossary

# What is a notary bond?

A surety bond some states require a notary to hold to protect the public from misconduct.

By [Matthew Coleman](/about), MCC Solutions

✓ New Jersey commissioned notary, no. 50244803, insured for errors and omissions. [See the credentials](/about/credentials)

## In plain English

The bond is for the benefit of the public. If a claim is paid, the bond holder may have to repay the surety.

Need this notarized? [Get it notarized online by a New Jersey notary over video](/notary/remote-online-notarization), or [book a notary visit in New Jersey](/notary/#order).

Not every state requires one, and the amount varies.

Before you buy, compare what your state demands with what a client or hiring company may ask for on top of it, and keep the paperwork with your commission records.

## Why it matters

Where a state requires a bond, a notary cannot be commissioned without one. Mistaking a bond for personal protection is common and can be costly, because a claim paid by the surety may come back to the notary.

For the public, the bond offers a route to compensation if a notary's misconduct causes harm.

## Worked example

She buys a bond for her commission term, as her state requires, before taking her oath.

## What to do

- Check whether your state requires a bond and how much.
- Buy it from a surety licensed in your state.
- File it as your commissioning office instructs, if required.
- Keep a copy with your commission papers.
- Renew it alongside your commission.

## Common mistakes

- Thinking the bond covers your own losses can leave you uninsured for errors.
- Filing late can delay your commission or oath of office.
- Letting the bond expire while still notarizing can put the commission at risk.

## Not the same as: Errors and omissions (E&O) insurance

A bond is for the public's protection and may need to be repaid by the notary, while E&O is insurance that can pay claims on the notary's behalf. [See Errors and omissions (E&O) insurance](/notary/glossary/errors-and-omissions-insurance).

## Go deeper

- [Notary Bond vs Errors and Omissions Insurance](/notary/guides/notary-bond-vs-errors-and-omissions-insurance): These two products are often confused. Learn what a notary bond protects, what E&O insurance protects, what neither covers, and how to choose coverage sensibly.

## Related terms

- [Notary journal](/notary/glossary/notary-journal): A bound or electronic record of each notarial act the notary performs.
- [Notary scam](/notary/glossary/notary-scam): A fake job or check scheme that targets notaries and signing agents.
- [Notarial fee](/notary/glossary/notarial-fee): The amount a notary may charge for a notarial act, set by state law.

## Common questions

**What is a notary bond?**

A surety bond some states require a notary to hold to protect the public from misconduct.

**Can you give an example of notary bond?**

She buys a bond for her commission term, as her state requires, before taking her oath.

**Does New Jersey require a notary bond?**

Rules can change. Check the current requirements with the New Jersey State Treasurer's notary office.

**Who gets paid if a bond claim succeeds?**

The harmed party is paid by the surety, which may then seek repayment from the notary.

General information, not legal advice. Rules vary by state and change; check with your state's commissioning office.

Need help?

 [### Mobile notary Mobile signings in New Jersey, remote online notarization and apostille help. Notary services →](/notary/)
 [Full glossary](/notary/glossary)

Do it yourself

### Notary Launch Bundle

You have the commission. These three get you to paid work: loan signings, local marketing and remote notarization.

[See what's inside ($49)](/toolkits/notary-launch-bundle)14-day full refund

## Need a document notarized? Book a notary.

[Book a notary](/notary/#order)[Call (908) 444-6373](tel:+19084446373)