One of the biggest questions we receive about working for Fidelity National Title is "How Do I Become Fidelity Approved?"
From what we know currently, since the inception of BancServ, Fidelity is no longer approving Notaries or Signing Agencies directly on a regular basis. Only existing Notariesand Signing Services who have kept their approval renewed on-time before this rule started a few years ago is the exception. This does not mean there is a definite no as with any company as strong as Fidelity they may have growth spurts in areas where they have to recruit outside of BancServe. There are many rumors that if an Escrow Officer wants you bad enough and they have any pull with the company at all they may be able to push you through to direct approval.
Signing Services that existed before Fidelity switched to BancServ are still in existence and can also get you approved through their service; however, it is important to understand you will need to get Fidelity Approved through each individual service you want to work with. If you are approved through BancServ but receive an order that requires a Fidelity Approved Notary through another platform you could derail an entire loan by taking the order. Fidelity is extremely strict and you must be on the list to work with them. They are strict and very powerful as well because they've been in business longer than most Title companies. It is in your best interest never to try to slide under the radar trying to get noticed because you could ruin a potential relationship forever. And they really are one of the best companies to work for as a Notary Signing Agent.
You may ask- why BancServ? From what we know BancServ is Fidelity's choice for Signing Services.
Be Careful Of These Important Things:
1) It is okay to seek out business but do not become annoying when searching for a Fidelity Officer to advocate for you. This could get you barred from ever doing a Fidelity File. Experience is key when working with Fidelity and you will get noticed in your Notary community in due time by even Fidelity offices.
2) Never approach an Escrow Officer for a direct business that comes through BancServ or any other signing service. This is not only unprofessional but also against the Signing Agent Code of Conduct set for by the NNA. Let your relationships develop naturally and if someone thinks you stand out while working with any platform and approaches you- then you are Golden.
3) Never accept a Fidelity File unless you know for sure you are approved to take a Fidelity File with that SPECIFIC company while working with them. For instance, if you are Fidelity Approved through XYZ Signing Company you are not Fidelity Approved through ABC Signing Service unless both have given you explicit approval. This has gotten many notaries in trouble and not knowing is not a respectable reply when you've botched someone's signing. That's exactly why you are reading this particular article because you wanted to know.