Are you looking to make extra money by simply standing as a witness in important document signings? Do you have a strong interest in legal documentation?
If so, being a notary is a perfect career path for you.
Take the first step and learn what jobs you can pursue as a notary. Read on to discover the best notary jobs and the top platforms to find them.
Best 7 Notary Jobs Overview
With the gig economy thriving, there are numerous opportunities for people looking for notary jobs online. Here are some common notary jobs that pay well you can consider:
- Records Clerk
- Notary Public
- Signing Agent
- Legal Assistant
- Executive Assistant
- Personal Banker
- Mobile Notary
Where to find the best notary jobs:
1. Records Clerk
A records clerk performs clerical duties such as maintaining and organizing notary-related documents and records, both physically and electronically. They also provide administrative support.
Average Salary: $17.45 per hour
2. Notary Public
A notary public is a licensed individual who serves the public as a third-party witness to the signing of important legal documents. In some states, they can even perform wedding ceremonies.
Average Salary: $16.15 per hour
3. Signing Agent
A signing agent is a state-commissioned notary public who witnesses and verifies an individual’s identity during real estate loan document signings.
Average Salary: $19 per hour
4. Legal Assistant
A legal assistant provides legal support within law firms, assisting attorneys or notaries in legal matters and performing notarizations in-house when needed. They may also communicate with clients, conduct research, and prepare documents in legal cases.
Average Salary: $19.82 per hour
5. Executive Assistant
An executive assistant provides support to high-level executives and notaries. They manage schedules, handle correspondence, take records and notes, and assist in administrative duties for their clients.
Average Salary: $21.80 per hour
6. Personal Banker
A personal banker provides notary services to bank customers and clients, managing their accounts and finances. They may provide recommendations in regard to banking services, investments, and loans based on their clients’ needs.
Average Salary: $19.42 per hour
7. Mobile Notary
A mobile notary is a notary who travels to clients’ locations for the signing of documents to verify the signers are who they say they are.
Their services are typically used for real estate or mortgage transactions. If needed, they can also perform general notary work.
Average Salary: $49 per hour
What Is a Notary Job?
A notary is a legally appointed professional who’s typically paid to stand as an important witness, particularly when someone needs to sign an official or legal document.
The job often entails the following:
- Reviewing documents and contracts
- Verifying the identity of the individual who’s signing the documents
- Certifying the documents with an official public notary stamp
- Ensuring the contracts and legal agreements are executed properly
They typically notarize various technical documents, including witness statements, legal documents, affidavits, loan documents, immigration forms, vehicle title transfers, etc.
Most of them are hired as independent contractors by legal firms, mortgage brokers, real estate offices, accounting firms, brokerage firms, and other businesses and financial institutions.
Top Places to Find Notary Jobs
Take a look at some of the top online platforms offering notary services and jobs and find your next gig.
1. Notarize
Notarize provides on-demand online notarization services. It’s an awards-winning platform that connects notary public professionals with clients who’re looking to get things done.
Pros
- Provides a streamlined process for notaries and clients
- A multiple award-winning platform for remote online notarization services
- Competitive pay rates
- No charge for joining the platform
- Provides access via mobile app
Cons
- Not exclusive to notary jobs
- Competition can be high
- Doesn’t provide support in all states
2. NotaryCam
NotaryCam is a platform designed to facilitate online notary services. It’s a trusted global solution that connects experienced and licensed notaries with clients looking for general notarization work and important real estate loan signings.
Pros
- Flexible work hours and locations
- Specializes in remote online notary services
- Easy-to-use interface
- Face-to-face meetings with clients
- Available 24/7 and 365 days a year
Cons
- Some users complained about long wait times for appointments
- Availability of jobs may be limited depending on clients’ demands
3. BlueNotary
BlueNotary is a relatively new platform that’s constantly growing to adapt to client needs. This is probably the reason they’re one of the fastest-growing remote online notarization platforms today.
Pros
- Trusted by 1,000+ businesses and 5,000+ notaries in 50+ states
- The platform is easy to use and navigate
- Provides online resources for notaries
- Offers competitive packages if you bring in your clients
Cons
- Catching calls can be difficult at times
- Competition can be tough with so many notaries on the platform
4. OneNotary
OneNotary provides a free account for notaries looking to offer online notary services through the platform. You can get started in one day and begin making money for every transaction.
Pros
- Simple and convenient registration absolutely free of cost
- Available in all 50 states
- Schedule 15-minute notary appointments
- More exclusive than other platforms
Cons
- Doesn’t offer a bulk pricing model
5. National Notary Association
National Notary Association is an esteemed organization dedicated to educating and serving the nation’s leading notaries. Apart from the best job opportunities, they offer professional programs and services to help you advance your career.
Pros
- Provides notary training and educational resources
- It’s the leading authority on the American Notary office
- Large database of notary jobs and services
- Offers great benefits, pay, and so much more
Cons
- Some users complained about poor management
- Some have criticized the cost of membership
What You’ll Need to Do Notary Jobs
You must meet all the necessary state requirements to do notary jobs. Other than these, you’ll need some important skills to get started, such as:
- Legal knowledge: You should have a solid knowledge and understanding of legal procedures and notary laws.
- Attention to detail: Notaries verify the authenticity of various technical and confidential documents. Strong attention to detail is a must to avoid the risk of critical errors during important document signings.
- Good communication skills: Clear communication with clients is crucial to answer all their queries and ensure effective document handling without any setbacks.
- Honesty and integrity: You must uphold these values to handle confidential information with discretion.
- Notary license: You might need a notary public commission or license to perform notary jobs. Be sure to check your state’s requirements and regulations before obtaining one.
Tips to Find Notary Jobs
The competitive nature of the notary job market makes it sometimes difficult to land a job. Here are some tips to help you find the right opportunity you deserve:
- Keep your resume updated: Highlight the relevant and most valuable skills specific to the role or industry you’re applying for. Use important keywords in your resume to get noticed by potential employers.
- Register on trusted online platforms: Sign up on a legitimate online platform, such as the ones mentioned above, to access job openings and connect with potential clients.
- Join a notary association: Consider becoming a member of a notary association like the NNA to get access to valuable resources and network with other like-minded notaries. Having a membership badge demonstrates your credibility and makes you stand out from the competition.
- Offer a mobile notary service: This is a great way to offer doorstep services to those clients who may have difficulty getting to your location. This way, you can market your services effectively and build some credibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does It Take To Become a Notary?
If you meet the state requirements, you may have to take a training program and an exam.
After you pass the exam, you’ll then take the oath of office to become a notary. The whole process could take three to six weeks to complete, depending on the state.
Can a Non-US Citizen Be a Notary?
Yes, a non-US citizen can get a notary public commission in the US. However, you must be a legal resident and submit to a background check.
Conclusion
The notary lifestyle is a great way to supplement your income and take a break from the monotonous routine of your regular job.
This profession is easy to start and can be run as a home-based business. With the right guidance and skill set, you can thrive in this field.
Did you find this article helpful? Share your thoughts in the comments section below. And feel free to share it with others who’d be interested in a notary career.
