Illinois law requires Notaries to purchase and maintain a surety bond for the duration of their 4-year commission. A $5,000 bond is required for Notaries who wish to perform traditional notarizations, while a $30,000 is required for Notaries who want to perform both traditional and remote or electronic notarizations by means of audio-visual communication*.

The bond protects the public against financial loss due to improper conduct by a Notary. It is NOT insurance protection for Notaries. For your convenience, the Illinois state filing fee is included with your bond purchase. We will file your bond with the state, speeding up your approval.

Processing your Illinois Application/Bond Form

The application process varies depending on the bond you purchase.

• $5,000 Notary Bond – New and renewing Notaries interested in performing traditional notarizations only must purchase a $5,000 bond and complete a Notary Public Application.
• $25,000 Notary Bond – Notaries who hold a $5,000 bond and are interested in adding remote or electronic notarizations to their services must purchase a $25,000 bond and complete a Notary Public Bond form.
• $30,000 Notary Bond –New and renewing Notaries interested in performing traditional and remote or electronic notarizations must purchase a $30,000 bond and complete a Notary Public Application. When filling out the application, be sure to check the box indicating that you wish to perform notarizations remotely by means of audio-visual communication.

*Electronic notarization is not yet authorized by the Illinois Secretary of State. Currently, both the $25,000 and $30,000 bonds are only required for applicants who indicate on their application form that they will be performing remote notarization by means of audio-visual communication.

When you’re ready, mail your original completed application and bond form to the National Notary Association. We’ll submit the documents on your behalf to the state, and you’ll be notified by the county clerk once it’s processed. You must appear within 30 days to receive and record your commission. If you have any questions, please contact us.

Mail application to: National Notary Association, 9350 De Soto Ave, Chatsworth, CA 91311