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| Arkansas – $7,500 Notary Bond without E&O Coverage |  |
| Arkansas – $7,500 Notary Bond with E&O Coverage of $10,000 | |
Introduction
An Arkansas Notary Public is a state-appointed official authorized to perform notarial acts such as administering oaths, witnessing signatures, and certifying documents. Commissioned by the Arkansas Secretary of State, notaries serve as impartial witnesses to help prevent fraud in legal and financial transactions. To be commissioned, applicants must meet eligibility requirements, purchase a $7,500 notary bond.
Explanation: Arkansas Notary Bond
The Arkansas Notary Bond is a $7,500 surety bond required by the Arkansas Secretary of State for individuals applying to become a commissioned notary public in the state. This bond ensures that the notary will perform their duties honestly, lawfully, and in compliance with Arkansas law. If the notary violates their legal responsibilities, the bond may be used to compensate harmed parties.
Purpose of the Bond
The Arkansas Notary Bond:
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Protects the public against financial harm caused by a notary’s misconduct, fraud, or negligence.
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Ensures the notary fulfills their duties under Arkansas Code § 21-14-101 et seq.
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Provides a legal remedy for individuals who suffer losses due to improper notarization.
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Who Needs the Bond?
Anyone applying to become a notary public in Arkansas must provide a $7,500 surety bond as part of the application process. This includes:
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First-time notary applicants
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Renewing notaries
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Reappointed notaries
Key Parties to the Bond
- Principal – The notary public applicant
- Obligee – The State of Arkansas (via the Secretary of State)
- Surety – The bonding company guaranteeing compensation if a valid claim is made
When is the Bond Required?
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The bond must be obtained and submitted before the notary commission is issued.
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It must be submitted with the application through the Arkansas Secretary of State’s notary portal.
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Process of Getting the Arkansas Notary Bond
Here is a step-by-step guide to obtaining the Arkansas Notary Bond:
Step 1: Meet Eligibility Requirements
Ensure you meet the following qualifications (Example: At least 18 years old, Legal resident of Arkansas or employed in Arkansas)
Step 2: Purchase a $7,500 Surety Bond
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Contact a licensed surety bond provider, insurance agency, or bonding company.
Step 3: Complete the Notary Application
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Go to the Arkansas Secretary of State Notary Portal
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Fill out the online notary application form.
Conclusion
The Arkansas Notary Bond is a mandatory $7,500 surety bond that protects the public and holds notaries accountable for their legal duties. It is a core requirement for obtaining or renewing a notary commission in Arkansas and helps ensure trust and integrity in public notarization.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance in addition to the bond?
E&O insurance is not required by law but is highly recommended. It protects the notary personally against legal expenses or claims not covered by the bond.
Can I use a bond from a previous commission?
No. Each new or renewed commission requires a new bond, even if your previous bond has not yet expired.
What happens if someone files a claim against my bond?
If a claim is validated, the surety company may pay up to $7,500 to the harmed party. You, the notary, are legally responsible for repaying the surety for the claim amount.
Can I transfer my bond to another state?
No. Surety bonds are state-specific. An Arkansas Notary Bond only applies within Arkansas and cannot be transferred to another state.
Does the bond cover all types of notarial misconduct?
The bond covers financial losses to the public caused by a notary’s negligence, fraud, or unlawful conduct. It does not cover unintentional errors unless they result in financial harm.
What if I lose my bond form before filing it?
Contact the surety company that issued your bond. They can provide a duplicate bond form for filing with the County Clerk.
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