Key Takeaways
- A $10,000 surety bond is required and protects the public
- Oath of office must be taken before a qualified official
- All documents must be filed within 45 days of commission date
- Signature must be registered with Recorder of Deeds (or Prothonotary)
- Failure to meet 45-day deadline voids the commission
Oath, Bond, and Filing Requirements
After receiving your commission appointment, you must complete several requirements within 45 days before performing any notarial acts. Missing this deadline voids your commission.
45-Day Deadline Requirements
Within 45 days after appointment, you must:
| Step | Requirement |
|---|---|
| 1 | Execute a $10,000 surety bond |
| 2 | Register your signature with the Recorder of Deeds |
| 3 | Take the constitutional oath of office |
| 4 | Record bond, commission, and oath with Recorder of Deeds |
CRITICAL: If all requirements are not met within 45 days, your commission becomes null and void.
The $10,000 Surety Bond
Purpose of the Bond
| The Bond DOES | The Bond DOES NOT |
|---|---|
| Protect the public | Protect the notary |
| Provide recovery for injured parties | Shield notary from liability |
| Cover up to $10,000 per claim | Prevent lawsuits against notary |
| Remain in effect for 4-year term | Limit personal liability |
Key Concept: If the bonding company pays a claim, they will seek reimbursement from you (the notary).
Bond Requirements
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Amount | $10,000 minimum |
| Duration | Full 4-year commission term |
| Provider | Licensed surety company |
| Filing | With county Recorder of Deeds |
Oath of Office
You must take the Pennsylvania Constitutional Oath before performing any notarial acts:
| Oath Element | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Administered by | Judge, notary, or other authorized official |
| Content | Swear to support U.S. and PA Constitutions |
| Swear to faithfully discharge duties | |
| Timing | Before any notarizations |
Filing Requirements
Where to File
| Your Situation | File In |
|---|---|
| PA resident | County of residence |
| Non-resident with PA employment | County of employment |
What to File
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Commission certificate | Proof of appointment |
| Surety bond (original) | Financial protection |
| Oath of office | Constitutional requirement |
| Signature registration | Official signature on file |
Note: Starting January 3, 2023, applicants may register their signature in the office of Recorder of Deeds instead of the Prothonotary.
Errors and Omissions Insurance
| Feature | Surety Bond | E&O Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Required? | Yes | No (but recommended) |
| Amount | $10,000 | $25,000+ typical |
| Protects | Public | Notary |
| Covers | Public harm from notary | Notary's legal costs |
| Cost | ~$50-100 for 4 years | ~$50-100 per year |
Recommendation: E&O insurance is strongly recommended as it protects YOU from costs of defending claims.
On the Exam
- Bond amount: $10,000
- Bond protects: The public (not the notary)
- Filing deadline: 45 days
- File location: County Recorder of Deeds
- Consequence of missing deadline: Commission is void
What is the surety bond amount required for Pennsylvania notaries?
Who does the notary surety bond protect?
What happens if a notary fails to file their oath and bond within the required timeframe?