Launching and Running a Notary Business in Utah: Essential Information

Are you interested in starting your own notary business in Utah? As a notary public, you have the unique opportunity to provide valuable services to individuals and businesses by certifying important documents and performing various notarial acts. In this article, we will discuss the essential aspects of launching and running a successful notary business in the state of Utah, including the fees that can be charged, additional charges for mobile and loan closing notarizations, as well as remote online notarizations.

The Role of a Notary Public

Before delving into the specifics of starting a notary business in Utah, it is important to understand the role and responsibilities of a notary public. A notary public is an individual appointed by the state government to serve as an impartial witness in the signing of important documents. Their primary function is to verify the authenticity of signatures, administer oaths, and certify the validity of documents.

Becoming a Notary Public in Utah

In order to launch your notary business in Utah, you must first become a notary public. The process involves meeting certain eligibility requirements, including being at least 18 years old and a resident of Utah. You must also complete an application, pay the necessary fees, and pass a background check. Once approved, you will receive your commission as a notary public.

Fees for Notarial Services

As a notary public in Utah, you have the right to charge fees for the services you provide. The maximum fees that can be charged are set by the Utah Lieutenant Governor’s office, which oversees notaries in the state. These fees vary depending on the type of service performed:

• Acknowledgments: $5
• Jurat or Oath: $5
• Copy Certifications: $5
• Protests: $5
• Verification upon Oath or Affirmation: $5

It is important to note that these fees are subject to change, so it is recommended to regularly check with the Utah Lieutenant Governor’s office for the most up-to-date information.

Additional Charges for Mobile, Loan Closing, and Remote Online Notarizations

In addition to the standard fees mentioned above, notaries in Utah are allowed to charge additional fees for certain services. These additional charges are as follows:

• Mobile Notarizations: Notaries may charge travel fees, in addition to the standard fees, for providing notarial services at a location requested by the client. The travel fees should be reasonable and agreed upon by both parties beforehand.
• Loan Closing Notarizations: Notaries who specialize in loan closing services may charge a higher fee due to the complexity and time-consuming nature of these transactions.
• Remote Online Notarizations: Utah allows for remote online notarizations, where the notary and signer are in different physical locations but can communicate through audiovisual technology. Notaries may charge an additional fee for this service, considering the technology and security measures involved.

It is important to be transparent with your clients about any additional charges and ensure they fully understand the fees associated with the notarial services you provide.

In Conclusion

Starting a notary business in Utah can be a rewarding and profitable venture. By understanding the role of a notary public, completing the necessary steps to become a notary, and familiarizing yourself with the fees and additional charges allowed, you can confidently launch and run a successful notary business. Remember to stay informed about any changes in fees and regulations to provide the best possible service to your clients. If you want to learn more about the world of notaries or explore other topics related to legal and governmental matters, make sure to check out the other articles on our website.