Millions of Americans serve as Notaries Public to protect consumers from fraud and identity theft. In fact, they are in such high demand by businesses, industries and private individuals that there is one Notary for every 72 people in the country.
While being a Notary might seem mundane, they witness and authenticate the signing of our most important transactions: mortgage documents, powers of attorney, contracts, adoption papers, advance medical directives and other dealings central to our lives and the economy. It's also a great way to earn extra income working from home or improve your resume and career.
Here are the top five reasons why you should consider becoming a Notary Public.
Make Additional Income
While Notaries are appointed by their states and serve as public officials, they charge their clients directly and the revenue is theirs to keep. That's why tens of thousands of people hit the streets as "mobile Notaries" in their communities. Most states regulate how much a Notary can charge for an individual notarization (for example, $15 in California and $10 in Florida), but many clients often need more than one signature notarized. You're also allowed to charge additional fees for items such as travel, supplies and other expenses.
Additional Resources: 22 Ways To Make Money As A Notary
Become a Notary Signing Agent
If you like the idea of being a Notary to make additional income, becoming a Notary Signing Agent is right up your alley. An NSA is a trained and certified professional that handles the notarization of loan documents in real estate closings. For the mortgage finance industry, NSAs serve as the critical final link between the banks and the borrower to complete the loan. They are hired directly by title companies and signing services as independent contractors to ensure that real estate loan documents are signed by the borrower, notarized, and returned for processing. Notaries make a considerable amount of extra income from this line of mortgage finance work, in addition to their work as a mobile Notary.
Additional Resources: By Fluke And Design: How 3 Notaries Built Thriving Businesses
Improve Your Resume/Skillset
Notaries are in high demand in a variety of industries, including banking, finance, medical, legal, government, insurance, technology … the list goes on. In fact, just about every industry uses the services of Notaries, so becoming one will add to your marketable skill sets, improve your resume and increase your value as an employee. In the workplace, Notaries serve two general functions: Notarizing documents in the back office for co-workers and bosses or notarizing for customers in a bank or their local photocopy and shipping shop. Many employers value employees with Notary skills to handle their document authentication needs and provide customers with top-notch service.
Additional Resources: Notarizing On The Job: What You And Your Boss Need To Know
Enjoy a Flexible Schedule
If you choose the mobile Notary/Notary Signing Agent route, you will have the flexibility to set your own hours. It's a perfect line of work for home-based entrepreneurs, moonlighters, stay-at-home parents (who can do mobile notarizations in the evening) or anyone looking to make some additional income. Many people who need notarizations request them after normal business hours, so you can make the most of your evenings, or arrange a time that's right for you.
Additional Resources: Alternate Income Opportunities
Help Your Community
America's Notaries Public are known for their spirit of helping those in need. If you are the type of person who enjoys giving back to your community, being a Notary is a great way to support that passion. Many types of people need notarization services but cannot afford them, like the elderly, homeless, disabled and college students. These groups typically need notarizations for powers of attorney, residency affidavits, advance medical directives, college transcripts and enrollment verifications. Notaries often hold events at community centers, retirement homes and campuses to provide free or low-cost notarizations. It's also a great way to network and market yourself for paying clients.
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