20 Pros and Cons of Being a Notary

The pros of being a notary include flexible work schedules, opportunities for additional income, enhanced job qualifications, positive societal impact, entrepreneurial opportunities, and continuous professional development. These benefits provide notaries with a sense of accomplishment, financial stability, and avenues for growth.

The cons of being a notary involve challenges in building a client base, potential inconsistent income, navigating complex state regulations, facing liability risks, and the need for continuous education. These challenges can sometimes overshadow the benefits, making it essential for individuals to weigh both sides before making a decision.

What does a notary do?

A notary public serves as an impartial witness to facilitate the signing of important documents, verify the signers’ identities, and screen for their understanding and willingness to sign, thereby helping to deter fraud and ensure the integrity of the signed document.

How to become a notary?

To become a notary you must, meet your state’s criteria, complete the application, pay fees, undergo training and exams, pass a background check if required, obtain a surety bond if mandated, receive a state commission, and buy notary supplies.

How much does a notary make?

On average, a full-time notary public in the United States can earn a yearly salary of around $50,294, but earnings can vary greatly depending on factors like experience, location, and range of services offered. Part-time notaries typically earn over $500 per month, with seasoned mobile notaries potentially earning more than $4,000 per month after building their business for a few years.

Is being a notary worth it?

Being a notary can be worth it if you value flexible work hours and providing a crucial service to help prevent fraud, although it may require managing variable income and risking potential legal exposure due to errors.

Takeaways:

• Notaries can earn extra income and enjoy flexible schedules for improved work-life balance.
• They take pride in their role, ensuring the authenticity of documents and contributing to community safety.
• Notaries manage their time to accommodate personal and professional obligations seamlessly.
• The initial expenses to become a notary are minimal, offering an economical way to start a business.

Notary: Quick Facts & Insights

• Overview:
  • Role & Responsibilities: Notaries witness the signing of official documents, verify signee identity, administer oaths, maintain notary journals, and handle legal documents.
  • Work Environment: Often self-employed, allowing for a flexible work schedule and location.
  • Social Impact: Deters fraud and ensures the accuracy of documentation, providing community value.
• Financial Insights:
  • Annual Median Pay: $50,294
  • Earnings Spectrum: 16 percent earn more than $7,500 a month.
• Entry Requirements:
  • Educational Background: State-specific qualifications; generally being 18, a state resident, and no criminal record.
  • Work Experience: Varies; may include state-approved education, an exam, and an application process.
  • Training & Development: State-required education varies; continuous training through online classes, workshops, and seminars.
• Job Market:
  • Current Employment: Not specified.
  • Projected Growth (2023-2033): 7%, driven by healthcare and social assistance sectors.
• Professional Life:
  • Work-Life Balance: Flexibility as a self-employed individual, allowing for a balance with personal obligations.
  • Benefits & Stability: Notary commission enhances job qualifications and opportunities for advancement or additional income.
• Industry Trends & Diversity:
  • Emerging Trends: Shift toward general notary work and non-notary services; successful notaries often find community-specific niches.
  • Entrepreneurial Opportunities: Independent service offerings can lead to additional income.
• Challenges:
  • Finding Customers: Building a client base is a common challenge.
  • Pandemic Restrictions: Adapting to COVID-19 restrictions has been a recent industry hurdle.

Sources:

• What Is the Average Notary Public Salary by State – ZipRecruiter
• How to Become a Notary Public | NNA – National Notary Association
• How To Become A Notary – Forbes Advisor
• Notary Public – Salary, How to Become, Job Description & Best Schools (onlinedegree.com)
• How much can I earn as a mobile Notary or Signing Agent? | NNA (nationalnotary.org)

Pros of Being a Notary	Cons of Being a Notary
Flexible Work Schedule	Building a Client Base
Opportunity for Additional Income	Inconsistent Income
Enhanced Job Qualifications	Initial Investment and Ongoing Costs
Positive Social Impact	Complex State Regulations
Entrepreneurial Opportunities	Liability Risks
Projected Job Growth	Continued Education Requirements
Continuous Learning and Development	Work-Life Balance Can Be Tricky
Diverse Work Environments	Competitive Market
Community Integration	Technological Adaptations Required
Adaptability to Challenges	Pandemic and Other Unforeseen Challenges

Pros of Being a Notary

1. Flexible Work Schedule: Notaries, especially those who are self-employed, enjoy a level of schedule flexibility that many other professions do not offer. They can set appointments according to their personal timetable, allowing them to manage work alongside other commitments, such as family, education, or hobbies. This flexibility often leads to a more balanced lifestyle, contributing significantly to personal well-being and satisfaction.
2. Opportunity for Additional Income: Notaries have the potential to earn a substantial income, with the median annual pay reported at $129,717. Those in the 75th percentile can even reach around $181,000, depending on the state and services provided. This income is often supplementary to another primary job, making it a lucrative side business or part-time occupation, especially for those offering specialized notary services.
3. Enhanced Job Qualifications: Having a notary commission can enhance an individual’s professional profile. It’s an additional qualification that can bolster a resume, potentially leading to career advancement opportunities in various sectors, including legal, financial, and governmental fields. This credential is often seen as a mark of trustworthiness and responsibility, qualities highly valued in many professions.
4. Positive Social Impact: Notaries play a crucial role in deterring fraud and ensuring the legality and authenticity of critical documents. By serving as impartial witnesses and verifying the identity of signees, they contribute to maintaining integrity in legal proceedings and various transactions, thereby providing a valuable service to the community and enhancing societal trust in documented agreements.
5. Entrepreneurial Opportunities: The notary profession allows for entrepreneurial ventures since many notaries are self-employed. They can start their own notary services business, expanding into community-specific niches, or offer mobile notary services. These independent service offerings can significantly increase earning potential and allow notaries to be their own bosses.
6. Projected Job Growth: The notary field is expected to see a 7% job growth from 2023 to 2033. This increase is particularly driven by sectors like healthcare and social assistance, indicating a sustained demand for notary services. Stable or growing demand means more opportunities for current and aspiring notaries, contributing to job security and availability.
7. Continuous Learning and Development: Notaries have access to continuous learning opportunities, such as online classes, workshops, and seminars, that help them stay updated with legal procedures and documentation requirements. This ongoing education not only ensures they provide accurate services but also contributes to their personal and professional development.
8. Diverse Work Environments: Notaries are not confined to one particular setting or industry. They can work in various environments like banks, law offices, real estate firms, or from the comfort of their homes. This diversity can make the work more interesting and provide valuable experiences and networking opportunities across different sectors.
9. Community Integration: Successful notaries often build strong relationships within their communities. They become known as trustworthy individuals who facilitate important legal processes. This level of integration can be personally fulfilling and can also lead to a steady stream of clients through word-of-mouth referrals.
10. Adaptability to Challenges: The notary profession has shown resilience and adaptability, especially evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many notaries transitioned to remote or electronic notarization, allowing them to continue providing essential services. This adaptability is a testament to the profession’s relevance and sustainability, even in challenging times.

Cons of Being a Notary

1. Building a Client Base: One of the primary challenges notaries face is establishing a steady client base. Especially for those starting, it can be difficult to attract clients and create a reliable stream of income. Networking, marketing, and advertising require additional skills and efforts, and there is significant competition in the field.
2. Inconsistent Income: While there is potential for a high income, earnings can be highly inconsistent, especially for notaries who are self-employed. Income often depends on the number of clients and transactions completed, which can fluctuate monthly. Notaries might face periods of financial instability due to this unpredictability.
3. Initial Investment and Ongoing Costs: Becoming a notary involves some initial costs, including education, the application process, and supplies. Additionally, self-employed notaries must also often handle business-related expenses, such as marketing, transportation, and insurance. These ongoing costs can be burdensome, especially if the income is not steady.
4. Complex State Regulations: Each state has its own set of regulations and requirements for notaries. Keeping up with these, especially if operating in multiple states, can be complex and time-consuming. Mistakes due to lack of knowledge or understanding of regulations can lead to serious legal consequences.
5. Liability Risks: Notaries take on significant legal responsibilities and, therefore, liability risks. If a notary fails to adhere to legal standards, whether intentionally or inadvertently, they can face lawsuits, fines, or even the revocation of their notary commission. This pressure can be a source of stress and requires meticulous attention to detail in their work.
6. Continued Education Requirements: While continued education can be seen as a benefit for personal growth, it’s also a requirement that entails time and sometimes financial investment. Notaries must stay updated with changing laws and practices, which means they need to regularly invest in courses, workshops, or seminars to maintain their license.
7. Work-Life Balance Can Be Tricky: Although being a notary can offer flexible hours, it can also lead to the opposite. Since income is often tied to the number of services provided, notaries might find themselves working odd hours or being on-call to meet client demands, potentially disrupting work-life balance.
8. Competitive Market: The notary field can be competitive, especially in areas with a high concentration of notaries. Standing out and establishing a niche requires strategic marketing, exceptional service, and sometimes lower prices, which can affect overall earnings.
9. Technological Adaptations Required: Emerging trends in the notary field, such as electronic notarization, require notaries to be technologically savvy. Not only does this mean additional investment in secure digital systems, but also a need for constant adaptation to new technologies, which might be challenging for some.
10. Pandemic and Other Unforeseen Challenges: External factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic have forced notaries to adapt to new ways of providing services, like remote notarizations. These adaptations can be difficult and costly to implement, and there’s always uncertainty regarding future unforeseen challenges that may impact the way notaries operate.

Benefits of Being a Notary

One of the benefits of being a notary is that they can earn extra income through notarial services. Notaries have the ability to charge a fee for their services, such as witnessing the signing of important documents and administering oaths. These fees can vary depending on the type of notarial act performed and the location. For example, notaries in some states can charge a maximum fee set by law, while others have more flexibility in setting their own fees. This additional income can be particularly beneficial for notaries who are looking to supplement their main source of income or simply earn some extra money on the side.

Another benefit of being a notary is the flexibility it offers. Notaries have the freedom to choose when and where they want to provide their services. They can schedule appointments that work around their existing commitments and obligations. This can be especially advantageous for individuals who’ve other full-time jobs or responsibilities, as they can easily fit notarial work into their busy schedules.

In addition to the financial benefits and flexibility, being a notary also comes with a sense of professional pride. Notaries play an important role in society by ensuring the authenticity and integrity of important documents. They’re trusted individuals who help prevent fraud and protect the rights of individuals involved in legal transactions. This sense of responsibility and contribution to the community can be incredibly rewarding for notaries.

Flexible Working Hours

Notaries enjoy the advantage of flexible working hours, allowing them the freedom to choose their own schedules. This flexibility enables notaries to achieve a better work-life balance, as they can accommodate personal commitments such as family responsibilities or pursuing other interests.

Freedom to Choose Schedule

Being a notary provides individuals with the freedom to create their own schedule, allowing for flexible working hours. This is a significant advantage for those who value work-life balance and want to have control over their time.

Notaries have the ability to choose when they want to work, whether it’s during traditional business hours or in the evenings and weekends. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for individuals who’ve other commitments, such as raising a family or pursuing additional education. It also allows notaries to accommodate clients who may have busy schedules and need documents notarized outside of regular working hours.

With the freedom to choose their schedule, notaries can better balance their personal and professional lives, making the profession an attractive option for those seeking flexibility in their work.

Work-Life Balance Benefits

With the flexibility of working hours, notaries can easily balance their personal and professional lives. This is one of the major benefits of being a notary. Unlike traditional 9-to-5 jobs, notaries have the freedom to choose when and where they work.

They can schedule appointments with clients at times that are convenient for both parties, allowing them to accommodate personal commitments or take care of family responsibilities. This flexibility enables notaries to have a better work-life balance, reducing stress and increasing job satisfaction.

Whether it’s attending children’s school events, taking care of personal errands, or pursuing hobbies and interests, notaries have the freedom to create a schedule that works for them. This flexibility is especially valuable for those who value their personal time and want to achieve a healthy work-life balance.

Accommodates Personal Commitments

The flexibility of working hours allows notaries to easily accommodate their personal commitments. Whether it’s taking care of family, pursuing hobbies, or simply having a better work-life balance, the ability to set their own schedule is a major advantage for notaries.

Here are four emotional benefits of having flexible working hours as a notary:

1. Freedom: Notaries can enjoy the freedom of choosing when and where they want to work, giving them the opportunity to prioritize their personal lives without sacrificing their professional responsibilities.
2. Reduced stress: By having control over their working hours, notaries can minimize stress levels and avoid burnout. They have the flexibility to create a schedule that suits their needs, allowing for a healthier work-life integration.
3. Quality time with loved ones: Flexible working hours enable notaries to spend more quality time with their family and friends. They can attend important events, take vacations, or simply be present for their loved ones when needed.
4. Pursue personal interests: Whether it’s pursuing a passion project, engaging in a hobby, or taking care of personal errands, notaries with flexible working hours have the freedom to pursue their personal interests and enjoy a more fulfilling life outside of work.

Potential Additional Source of Income

Notaries have the potential to earn additional income due to the flexibility in their schedule. This allows them to take on more clients and appointments, maximizing their earning potential.

With low startup costs and a high demand for notaries in various industries, individuals can easily establish a side business or supplement their existing income by becoming a notary.

Flexibility in Schedule

Being a notary offers individuals the opportunity to have a flexible schedule, allowing them to potentially earn additional income. Here are four reasons why the flexibility in schedule as a notary can be appealing:

1. Work-life balance: Notaries have the freedom to choose when and where they work, enabling them to balance their personal and professional lives more effectively. This flexibility can be especially beneficial for those with family commitments or other part-time jobs.
2. Supplemental income: The ability to set their own hours allows notaries to take on additional clients or projects, potentially increasing their earning potential. This flexibility can be especially valuable for individuals looking to boost their income or save for specific financial goals.
3. Pursue other interests: With a flexible schedule, notaries have the opportunity to pursue other interests or passions outside of their notary work. Whether it’s volunteering, starting a side business, or pursuing further education, having control over their time allows notaries to explore other avenues of personal and professional growth.
4. Adapt to changing circumstances: Life can be unpredictable, and having a flexible schedule as a notary allows individuals to adapt to unexpected events or changes in their lives. Whether it’s adjusting their working hours to accommodate family needs or taking time off for personal reasons, notaries have the freedom to make necessary adjustments without sacrificing their income or career.

Low Startup Costs

With minimal investment required, becoming a notary can provide individuals with a low-cost opportunity to generate additional income. Unlike other business ventures that may require a significant amount of capital, starting a notary business typically only requires the purchase of a notary seal and commission fees. These costs can vary depending on the state, but they’re generally affordable and manageable.

This low startup cost allows individuals to enter the notary profession without breaking the bank, making it an attractive option for those looking to earn extra money on the side. Additionally, notaries have the flexibility to set their own fees for their services, allowing them to determine their earning potential. This means that with a small investment, individuals can create a viable source of supplementary income.

High Demand for Notaries

There is a strong market demand for notaries, making it a lucrative opportunity for individuals to earn extra income. Here are four reasons why the high demand for notaries can be an emotional and financial advantage:

1. Increased earning potential: With the demand for notaries on the rise, individuals can capitalize on this opportunity to boost their income and improve their financial stability.
2. Flexibility and convenience: Being a notary allows individuals to work on their own schedule and choose their clients. This flexibility can provide a sense of freedom and control over one’s work-life balance.
3. Job security: As long as legal documents need to be notarized, the demand for notaries will remain steady. This job security can provide peace of mind and a sense of stability in an uncertain economy.
4. Helping others: Notaries play a crucial role in verifying the authenticity and legality of important documents, assisting individuals in crucial life events. The satisfaction of helping others can be emotionally rewarding and fulfilling.

Professional Growth Opportunities

While notaries have limited opportunities for professional growth within their specific role, they can still expand their knowledge and skills in related fields. Notaries can take advantage of various professional growth opportunities to enhance their career prospects and broaden their expertise.

One way to achieve this is by attending workshops, seminars, and conferences related to notary public practices. These events can provide valuable insights into the latest industry trends, best practices, and legal updates.

Additionally, notaries can consider pursuing advanced certifications or specialized training programs in areas such as real estate, law, or finance. Gaining expertise in these fields can open up new avenues for career advancement and allow notaries to offer additional services to their clients.

Another way for notaries to grow professionally is by networking with other professionals in their industry. Joining professional associations, attending networking events, and connecting with other notaries can help notaries expand their professional network, learn from others’ experiences, and gain exposure to new opportunities. Networking can also lead to collaborations or partnerships with other professionals, enabling notaries to diversify their services and reach a wider client base.

Furthermore, notaries can explore opportunities to become involved in their local communities. Volunteering for pro bono services, participating in community outreach programs, or joining local committees can’t only enhance their skills but also help to build a positive reputation and establish themselves as trusted professionals within their community.

Ability to Serve the Community

Notaries actively contribute to their community by providing valuable services and support to individuals and businesses in need. They play a crucial role in ensuring the authenticity and legality of various documents, such as contracts, affidavits, and deeds. Here are four ways in which notaries serve the community:

1. Accessibility: Notaries are often available outside of regular business hours, making their services easily accessible to individuals who may have limited time or work unconventional hours. This accessibility ensures that everyone has equal access to important legal processes.
2. Peace of Mind: By witnessing the signing of documents and verifying the identity of the parties involved, notaries help prevent fraud and protect the interests of the community. This provides reassurance and peace of mind to individuals and businesses, knowing that their documents are legally binding and secure.
3. Mediation: Notaries can act as impartial mediators in certain situations, helping to resolve disputes and facilitate agreements between parties. Their neutral position and knowledge of legal requirements make them valuable assets in resolving conflicts within the community.
4. Community Building: Notaries often work closely with local businesses and organizations, forging relationships that contribute to the overall growth and development of the community. Their presence and involvement in community events and initiatives further enhance the sense of togetherness and support.

Through their services and dedication, notaries make a positive impact on the community, fostering trust, and ensuring the smooth functioning of legal processes.

Enhanced Legal Knowledge and Skills

By actively participating in legal proceedings and staying up-to-date with current laws and regulations, notaries enhance their legal knowledge and skills, allowing them to better serve their clients. Being a notary requires a thorough understanding of legal documents, including contracts, affidavits, and loan agreements. Through their involvement in various legal proceedings, such as witnessing signatures or administering oaths, notaries gain valuable experience in navigating the legal landscape.

One of the key benefits of being a notary is the opportunity to stay informed about the latest laws and regulations. Notaries are required to stay up-to-date with changes in legislation to ensure that they properly execute their duties. This continuous learning process helps notaries expand their legal knowledge and develop a better understanding of the intricacies of the legal system.

Moreover, through their work as notaries, individuals also enhance their skills in attention to detail and accuracy. Notaries must carefully review documents to ensure their validity and legality. They must be meticulous in verifying identities, dates, and signatures, as any mistakes could have serious legal consequences. This attention to detail and precision hones their skills in scrutinizing legal documents, which is a valuable asset in any legal profession.

Responsibility and Liability Considerations

What kind of responsibility and liability considerations do notaries need to be aware of?

Notaries have a significant role in legal transactions, and with that role comes a great deal of responsibility. Here are four important responsibility and liability considerations that notaries need to keep in mind:

1. Legal Compliance: Notaries must ensure that they strictly adhere to the laws and regulations governing their jurisdiction. Failing to do so can result in serious legal consequences, including fines, suspension, or even revocation of their notary commission.
2. Accuracy and Attention to Detail: Notaries are responsible for verifying the identity of the individuals involved in a transaction and ensuring that all documents are properly executed. Any mistakes or oversights can lead to legal disputes or challenges to the validity of the documents.
3. Confidentiality: Notaries often handle sensitive and confidential information, such as personal identification documents. They must maintain the highest level of confidentiality and protect the privacy of the parties involved.
4. Professionalism: Notaries are expected to conduct themselves with professionalism and integrity at all times. This includes maintaining impartiality, refusing to notarize documents in certain circumstances, and avoiding conflicts of interest.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Requirements to Become a Notary?

To become a notary, one must meet certain requirements. These requirements typically include being at least 18 years old, having a clean criminal record, completing a training course, and passing a state-administered exam.

How Much Does It Cost to Become a Notary?

Becoming a notary involves certain costs. These expenses can include application fees, exam fees, and the cost of a notary seal. The total cost can vary depending on the state and the specific requirements.

Can Notaries Perform Marriages?

Yes, notaries can perform marriages. They have the authority to officiate wedding ceremonies and legally bind couples in matrimony. This adds to the versatility and significance of being a notary.

Are Notaries Required to Have Errors and Omissions Insurance?

Notaries are not required to have errors and omissions insurance, but it is highly recommended. This type of insurance protects notaries in case they make a mistake or are sued for negligence while performing their duties.

Can Notaries Refuse to Notarize Documents?

Notaries can refuse to notarize documents if they have a valid reason, such as if the signer cannot provide proper identification or if the document violates any laws or regulations.