Launching and Running a Notary Business in Vermont

Are you considering starting a notary business in the beautiful state of Vermont? Being a notary public can be a fulfilling career that allows you to serve your community and provide essential services to individuals and businesses. In this article, we will explore the process of launching and running a notary business in Vermont, including the fees that can be charged for various services, as well as additional charges allowed for mobile, loan closing, or remote online notarizations.

What is a Notary Public?

Before diving into the details of starting a notary business, let’s first understand what a notary public does. A notary public is an official appointed by the state government to act as an impartial witness in the signing of important documents. Their primary role is to verify the identity of the signing parties and ensure that the documents are being executed voluntarily and without coercion.

Notaries play a crucial role in preventing fraud and ensuring the validity of legal documents. They are authorized to administer oaths, certify copies of documents, and even take acknowledgments or proofs of deeds and other instruments. These services are in high demand in various industries, including real estate, banking, and legal.

Becoming a Notary in Vermont

Becoming a notary in Vermont is a straightforward process. To qualify, you must be at least 18 years old, be a resident of Vermont, and have a clean criminal record. The Vermont Secretary of State’s Office oversees the appointment and commissioning of notaries in the state.

Once you meet the eligibility requirements, you can submit an application to the Secretary of State’s Office along with the required fee. If approved, you will receive your notary commission, which is valid for four years. It is important to note that being a notary public is not the same as being a licensed attorney, and you should not provide legal advice beyond the scope of your authority.

Fees Charged by Notaries

As a notary in Vermont, you are allowed to charge fees for certain services rendered. It is essential to familiarize yourself with the fee schedule established by the state government to ensure compliance and fair pricing. Below are some of the fees that may be charged or typically collected by notaries in Vermont:

• For taking acknowledgments or proofs: $5 per signature
• For administering an oath or affirmation: $5 per person
• For certifying copies of documents: $2 per page
• For taking depositions: $0.10 per line

It is worth noting that these fees are subject to change, and it is crucial to stay updated with any revisions made by the state government.

Additional Charges for Special Notarial Acts

In addition to the standard fees, notaries in Vermont are allowed to charge additional fees for certain specialized notarial acts. These acts include mobile notarizations, loan closings, and remote online notarizations. The fees for these services are not regulated by the state government, and notaries have the flexibility to negotiate their rates with clients.

Mobile notarizations involve traveling to a client’s location, such as their home, office, or a hospital. Notaries can charge a reasonable fee for their time and travel expenses. Similarly, for loan closings, which often require the notary’s presence at a specific location, additional charges can be applied.

With the advancement of technology, remote online notarizations have become increasingly popular. Notaries can perform notarial acts via audio-visual communication, eliminating the need for in-person meetings. The fees for remote online notarizations can vary based on the complexity of the transaction and the market demand.

Conclusion

Starting a notary business in Vermont can be a rewarding venture. By understanding the process of becoming a notary, the fees allowed to be charged, and the additional charges for specialized notarial acts, you can build a successful notary business that serves the needs of your community.

If you’re interested in learning more about the world of notaries and other legal topics, be sure to explore the other articles on our website. From notarial best practices to the latest updates in legal regulations, we have a wealth of information to help you navigate the world of notary public services.