🖋️What To Do as a New Notary

Becoming a notary public is an exciting step—whether you’re looking to boost your professional credentials or start a side business. But once your commission arrives, you may wonder: What’s next?

The following are steps that will help every new notary to protect themselves and their business stay compliant and create a smooth experience for their clients.

1. Secure Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance

While most states don’t legally require E&O insurance, every professional notary should have it.

Why E&O Insurance Matters

Notaries are personally liable for mistakes, even unintentional ones. If someone claims they suffered financial loss because of an error you made—like missing a signature or completing a certificate incorrectly—E&O insurance protects you from out-of-pocket legal costs in the event of a lawsuit.

What to Look For

• Coverage that matches your state’s risk level (commonly $25,000–$100,000+).

• A reputable insurer that specializes in notary coverage.

• Policies that cover both negligence and simple human error.

E&O insurance isn’t expensive, and it’s arguably the most important investment you’ll make as a notary.

2. Invest in Additional Notary Training

While some states don’t require that you take a course and pass a test to become a notary, as a professional, learn as much as you can about the notary laws in your state so that you can offer your clients the best service possible.  Check out the following resources for training once you receive your commission:

·        National Notary Association

·        Notary Training Hub

·        Notary 2 Notary

·        The Notary Blueprint

3. Get Your Essential Notary Supplies

Equipping yourself properly sets the foundation for smooth, compliant, and efficient notarizations.

Notary Stamp (ink)

Your notary stamp is your most important tool. Make sure it:

• Meets your state’s required format

• Is high-quality and long-lasting

• Produces crisp, clean, flat impressions

Most new notaries purchase two—one for daily use and a backup.

As a professional rule, use black or dark blue ink, don’t get too fancy with the colors.  A document you notarize may be rejected due to an improper stamp ink causing issues for your clients.

Notary Embosser

While not required everywhere, an embosser:

• Adds an extra layer of authenticity (because of the raised seal)

• Helps prevent fraud (can’t be copied)

• Looks professional and clean

Notary Journal

Even if your state doesn't require a journal, keeping one is definitely best practice. 

A detailed journal protects you by documenting:

• Who you notarized for

• What was notarized

• Identification methods

• Signatures and thumbprints

• Circumstances of the signing

  
  

This record becomes invaluable if a notarization is ever questioned months—or even years—later.

Thumbprint Pad

Certain transactions, like real estate or power of attorney documents, are higher risk. Taking a thumbprint:

• Adds a fraud deterrent

• Helps law enforcement verify identity in disputes

• Provides you with an extra layer of documentation

  
  

Some states require thumbprints for specific notarizations; others have privacy concerns or state laws that prohibit them entirely. If you decide to purchase a thumbprint pad, make sure you only collect prints if the client is in a state where it’s allowed.

National Notary Association has tons of reasonably priced, high quality supplies to get you started in your notary business!

4. Create Your Signing Routine

As you begin your work, create a simple, repeatable process so every notarization is consistent. A checklist might include:

• Verify identity

• Review the document

• Confirm willingness and awareness

• Take a thumbprint (if required or recommended)

• Complete the notarial certificate

• Apply your stamp (and embosser if using)

• Complete your journal entry

  
  

A routine helps prevent mistakes and gives clients a professional experience.

5. Know Where to Find Support

You don’t have to navigate the notary world alone. Consider joining:

• Notary forums

• Facebook groups for notaries

• Your state’s notary associations

• Online notary communities

  
  

These resources keep you informed about law updates, industry trends, and best practices.

Your notary commission opens the door to a countless opportunities, whether you're working part-time or full-time, or just looking to make some extra income.  Equip yourself by staying informed, and you’ll build a reputation as a professional, go to notary in your community.