The Benefits of Being a Notary Public
The Benefits of Being a Notary Public – Becoming a notary public is more than a government designation—it’s a strategic move toward professional growth, supplemental income, and civic responsibility. For individuals exploring flexible career paths or considering new ways to generate passive income, the benefits of being a notary public are compelling and far-reaching.
From increasing employability to starting your own mobile notary business, the role offers a blend of independence, financial opportunity, and public service. In this article, we’ll explore the core advantages, how to get started, and why becoming a notary public may be the career enhancement you didn’t know you needed.
What Is a Notary Public?
A notary public is a state-appointed official authorized to witness the signing of documents, administer oaths, and deter fraud by verifying identities.
The position is especially important in legal, financial, and real estate transactions. Depending on your state, you may also be able to perform marriage ceremonies, certify copies of documents, or even offer fingerprinting services.
The Core Benefits of Being a Notary Public
The benefits of being a notary public go beyond the title itself. Here’s a closer look at the most valuable advantages:
1. Increased Professional Value
One of the most immediate benefits of becoming a notary public is the added value you bring to your current job or resume.
Many employers, especially in banking, legal, healthcare, and real estate, view notaries as essential personnel.
Being able to notarize documents in-house saves businesses time and money, making you a more attractive hire.
Industries that highly value notaries:
| Industry | Common Notarized Documents |
|---|---|
| Legal | Affidavits, depositions, powers of attorney |
| Real Estate | Deeds, closing documents, escrow forms |
| Healthcare | Medical release forms, living wills |
| Banking | Loan documents, mortgage agreements |
Having this credential on your resume can help you stand out during hiring or promotion decisions.
2. Supplemental Income Opportunities
A major reason people pursue this path is to earn additional income. Notaries can charge for each service, and in some states, mobile notaries and loan signing agents can earn hundreds per assignment. According to the National Notary Association, some part-time notaries earn over $1,000 per month, depending on demand and specialization.
Potential Income Sources:
- General notarial services (witnessing, oaths, certifications)
- Mobile notary services (travel to client homes or offices)
- Loan signing agent roles (specialized in mortgage paperwork)
- Document translation or fingerprinting (in states where allowed)
This flexibility means you can maintain a full-time job while building a profitable side hustle.
3. Low Barrier to Entry
Unlike other professions that require years of schooling or expensive licensing, becoming a notary is relatively affordable and quick.
Typical requirements (state-specific):
- Be at least 18 years old
- Pass a background check
- Complete a short course or training
- Pay an application fee (ranges from $20–$100)
- Purchase a notary seal and journal
The upfront cost is often under $300 total, making it one of the most accessible professional designations available.
4. Flexible Work Arrangements
Flexibility is one of the lesser-known yet incredibly valuable benefits of being a notary public. Whether you’re a stay-at-home parent, retiree, or gig worker, you can schedule appointments on your own terms. Many notaries operate mobile services, visit clients at homes or offices, and even partner with real estate agencies to handle document signings.
Remote online notarization (RON) is also becoming legal in more states, allowing you to notarize documents from home using secure video conferencing software.
Related Reading: Explore how remote tools can enhance flexible jobs like notary work in our effective leasing tips article.
5. High Demand in Legal and Real Estate Sectors
The legal and real estate sectors consistently require notarized documents, especially for:
- Mortgage loans
- Title transfers
- Lease agreements
- Affidavits and powers of attorney
With housing and legal documentation remaining core needs in society, notaries play a critical role. As a notary, you can specialize as a loan signing agent—a role that can earn $75–$200 per appointment.
Pro Tip: Enhance your income and authority by becoming both a notary and a certified loan signing agent. You’ll gain access to even higher-paying assignments.
6. Serving Your Community
Many notaries report a deep sense of satisfaction in helping their communities prevent fraud and navigate legal processes. Whether assisting immigrants with documentation, supporting low-income families during real estate closings, or working with senior citizens on medical directives, notaries often provide critical services to vulnerable populations.
7. Entrepreneurial Potential
Starting your own notary business is an achievable goal. You can operate solo or build a small team, offering services such as:
- Mobile notary appointments
- 24-hour emergency notarization
- Real estate closing services
- Apostille facilitation
With minimal overhead and local marketing, many notaries grow from part-time side hustle to full-time income in under two years.
Start-up checklist:
- Get bonded and insured
- Set up a business website
- List your services on local directories
- Use Google My Business for visibility
- Offer bilingual services to stand out
If entrepreneurship interests you, check out our solo travel tips for introverts, which highlight the benefits of independent ventures.
8. Add-on Credentials
Once you become a notary, additional certifications can expand your earning potential. Consider:
- Remote Online Notary (RON)
- Certified Loan Signing Agent
- Apostille Agent
- Field Inspector
Each credential builds your skill set and widens your market reach.
9. Cross-Industry Utility
The benefits of being a notary public extend across diverse fields. Whether you work in law, insurance, education, or finance, notary services are almost always needed. This flexibility ensures long-term career relevance—even as industries shift.
In fact, knowledge-based roles like this parallel the advantages found in other specialized professions, such as those outlined in our article on fun facts about chiropractic care.
Common Questions About Being a Notary Public
How much can you charge as a notary?
Each state sets its own maximum fees. Most allow $5–$15 per signature, but mobile notaries and loan signing agents can charge $75–$200 per appointment.
Is notary work seasonal or consistent?
Notary demand is steady year-round, with peaks during tax season, real estate booms, and end-of-year legal planning.
Can notary work be done full-time?
Yes. With specialization, local marketing, and networking, many notaries run full-time businesses, especially those who offer real estate and loan document services.
Final Thoughts
The benefits of being a notary public are numerous, from increased job prospects and income potential to the freedom of flexible scheduling and business ownership. It’s one of the few professions that offers both public service and entrepreneurial growth with minimal barriers to entry.
Whether you’re looking to supplement your income, build a full-time business, or simply increase your professional value, becoming a notary public is a smart, forward-thinking investment.
For those seeking holistic personal and professional growth, check out our articles on living on purpose affirmations and creativity affirmations. They align perfectly with the mindset needed to thrive in self-driven roles like notary work.
Useful External Resources:
- National Notary Association
- U.S. Department of State – Apostille Services
- Loan Signing System – How to Become a Loan Signing Agent
If you’re ready to explore the benefits of being a notary public and how it can change your professional path, now is the perfect time to take action.
