Launching and Running a Notary Business in Pennsylvania

Are you interested in starting your own notary business in Pennsylvania? If so, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will guide you through the process of launching and running a successful notary business in the state. We will cover the fees that may be charged or typically collected by notaries for their services, as well as additional charges allowed for mobile, loan closing, or remote online notarizations.

1. Understanding the Role of a Notary Public

Before diving into the details of starting a notary business, it’s essential to understand the role of a notary public. A notary public is an official appointed by the state government to act as an impartial witness in various legal matters. Notaries are responsible for verifying the authenticity of signatures, administering oaths, and certifying copies of documents.

2. Becoming a Notary Public in Pennsylvania

While this article does not cover the process of becoming a notary, it’s important to know the requirements for obtaining a notary commission in Pennsylvania. To become a notary public in the state, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a resident of Pennsylvania
• Be able to read and write English
• Not have been convicted of a felony

Once you have met these requirements and obtained your notary commission, you can proceed to launch your notary business.

3. Setting Up Your Notary Business

Now that you’re a notary public, you can begin setting up your notary business. Here are some steps to consider:

a. Choosing a Business Name: Select a unique and memorable name for your notary business. Make sure the name complies with Pennsylvania’s business naming rules.

b. Obtaining a Business License: Check with your local government or county clerk’s office to determine if you need to obtain a business license or permit to operate your notary business.

c. Setting Up a Business Bank Account: It’s crucial to keep your personal and business finances separate. Open a business bank account to manage your notary business transactions.

4. Understanding Notary Fees in Pennsylvania

As a notary public, you are allowed to charge fees for your services. The Pennsylvania Department of State sets the maximum fees notaries can charge. Here are some common fees:

a. Acknowledgments and Jurats: For verifying signatures, you can charge a fee of up to $5 per signature.

b. Oaths and Affirmations: For administering oaths or affirmations, you can charge a fee of up to $5 per person.

c. Copy Certifications: For certifying copies of documents, you can charge a fee of up to $5 per document.

Note: These fees are subject to change, so always refer to the Pennsylvania Department of State for the most up-to-date fee schedule.

5. Additional Charges for Special Notarial Services

In addition to the standard fees, notaries in Pennsylvania are permitted to charge additional fees for certain specialized notarial services:

a. Mobile Notarizations: If you provide notary services at a location other than your office, you can charge a travel fee. The maximum travel fee allowed is $5, plus an additional $2 per mile.

b. Loan Closing Notarizations: If you are involved in loan closings, you can charge a fee of up to $150 per loan closing.

c. Remote Online Notarizations: Pennsylvania recently authorized remote online notarizations. Notaries can charge a fee for providing remote online notary services, but the specific fees are still being determined.

Remember, it is essential to comply with all applicable laws and regulations when charging fees for notarial services. Always provide your clients with a clear breakdown of charges and fees.

Conclusion

Congratulations on taking the first step towards launching your notary business in Pennsylvania! Starting a notary business can be a fulfilling and profitable venture. Remember to continuously educate yourself on the latest laws and regulations governing notary services in the state. If you found this article helpful, be sure to check out our other articles for more information on running a successful notary business.