Launching and Running a Notary Business in Texas

Are you interested in starting your own notary business in the state of Texas? Becoming a notary public can be a rewarding career that offers flexibility and the opportunity to serve your community. In this article, we will explore the steps and fees involved in launching and running a notary business in Texas, including the charges you can collect for various services, as well as additional fees allowed for mobile, loan closing, or remote online notarizations.

1. Becoming a Notary Public

The first step to launching your notary business is to become a notary public. In Texas, the requirements to become a notary are relatively straightforward. You must be at least 18 years old, a legal resident of Texas, and able to read and write in English. Additionally, you must not have been convicted of a felony or a crime involving moral turpitude.

To become a notary, you will need to complete an application, pay a filing fee, and provide proof of identity. The application can be obtained from the Secretary of State’s website, and the filing fee is currently $21. Once your application is approved, you will need to take an oath of office and obtain a notary seal and journal.

2. Setting Up Your Notary Business

Now that you are a notary public, it’s time to set up your notary business. Start by choosing a business name that reflects your services and is easy for clients to remember. Register your business name with the appropriate county clerk’s office and obtain any required licenses or permits.

Next, create a professional website for your notary business. Your website should include information about your services, fees, and contact details. Consider adding a booking system to make it easier for clients to schedule appointments with you.

It’s also important to establish a network of contacts within your community. Reach out to local businesses, real estate agents, and attorneys who may require notary services. Attend networking events and join professional organizations to expand your circle of potential clients.

3. Fees for Notarial Services

As a notary public, you are authorized to charge fees for certain services. In Texas, the maximum fees that can be charged for notarial services are set by law and can be found in the Texas Government Code, Section 406.024. It’s important to familiarize yourself with these fees to ensure you are charging appropriately.

Some of the common notarial services and their corresponding fees include:

• Administering an oath or affirmation: $6 per person
• Taking a deposition: $6 per deposition
• Verifying a vehicle identification number (VIN): $6 per verification
• Preparing or certifying a copy of a document: $6 per document

These fees are subject to change, so it’s advisable to regularly check for updates from the Secretary of State’s website or consult legal resources for the most current information.

4. Additional Charges for Mobile, Loan Closing, or Remote Online Notarizations

In addition to the standard fees for notarial services, you are also allowed to charge additional fees for mobile, loan closing, or remote online notarizations. These services often require extra time and resources, warranting additional charges.

For mobile notarizations, where you travel to a client’s location, you can charge a travel fee in addition to the standard notarial fees. The travel fee should be reasonable and cover your expenses, such as mileage and travel time.

When conducting loan closing notarizations, you can charge a fee that reflects the complexity and importance of the transaction. Loan closings typically involve extensive document review and coordination with multiple parties, making them more time-consuming.

Remote online notarizations, which allow notarizations to be performed online via audiovisual technology, also enable you to charge additional fees. These fees can compensate for the specialized technology and software required to securely perform remote notarizations.

Conclusion

Launching and running a notary business in Texas can be a fulfilling and profitable venture. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can become a notary public, set up your business, and establish a network of clients. Remember to familiarize yourself with the fees allowed for notarial services and consider charging additional fees for mobile, loan closing, or remote online notarizations. Good luck with your notary business!

If you found this article helpful, be sure to explore other informative articles on our website to further enhance your knowledge about the notary business and related topics.