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Michigan Notary Bond

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Michigan – $10,000 Notary Bond with E&O coverage of $10,000
Michigan – $10,000 Notary Bond with E&O coverage of $25,000
Michigan – $10,000 Notary Bond without E&O coverage

Introduction

A Michigan Notary Public is an individual commissioned by the State of Michigan to serve as an impartial witness in the signing of important documents and to perform official acts such as administering oaths, affirmations, and certifying copies. Notaries help prevent fraud by verifying the identity of signers and ensuring documents are executed properly under Michigan law. To be commissioned, applicants must meet eligibility requirements, obtain a $10,000 notary bond, and file it with their county clerk before receiving authorization from the Michigan Department of State.

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Explanation: Michigan Notary Bond

A Michigan Notary Bond is a type of surety bond required by the State of Michigan for individuals applying to become a commissioned notary public.

Key Points:

  • Purpose: The bond serves as a financial guarantee that the notary public will perform their duties honestly, ethically, and in compliance with Michigan law.

  • Protection: It protects the public—not the notary—from financial losses resulting from negligent, improper, or unlawful actions committed by the notary while performing official notarial acts (such as witnessing signatures, administering oaths, or certifying documents).

  • Bond Amount: Michigan law requires a ,000 surety bond for notary applicants.

  • Duration: The bond must cover the full 6-year term of the notary’s commission.

  • Requirement for Appointment: A notary commission will not be granted unless the applicant first obtains and files the bond with the appropriate county clerk’s office in Michigan.

Read our Michigan – Non-Depository Sales Finance Company Bond.

How It Works:

  • The bond is issued by a surety company (insurance provider).

  • If a notary causes financial harm through misconduct, a claim may be filed against the bond.

  • The surety company compensates the injured party (up to the bond amount), and the notary is then responsible for reimbursing the surety.

See our Michigan Liquid Industrial Waste Haulers Bond.

Process of getting a Michigan Notary Bond

Here is the detailed process of getting a Michigan Notary Bond:

Step 1: Verify Eligibility

  • Be at least 18 years old.

  • Be a Michigan resident or maintain a business in Michigan.

  • Have no felony convictions within the last 10 years.

Step 2: Obtain a $10,000 Surety Bond

  • Contact a licensed surety bond provider or insurance company authorized in Michigan.

  • Purchase the $10,000 Michigan Notary Bond (covers a 6-year term).

  • The surety company will issue a bond form that you must file with the county clerk.

Step 3: File the Bond with the County Clerk

  • Submit the bond and oath of office to the county clerk in the county where you reside or do business.

  • Pay the filing fee.

Step 4: Complete the Notary Application

  • Fill out the Notary Public Application.

  • Include proof of your filed bond and oath.

  • Submit the completed application to the Michigan Department of State, Office of the Great Seal.

  • Pay the application fee.

Step 5: Receive Notary Commission

  • Once approved, you will receive your Notary Commission Certificate.

  • This commission, supported by your bond, authorizes you to begin performing notarial acts in Michigan for 6 years.

Conclusion

The Michigan Notary Bond is an essential safeguard that ensures notaries uphold their legal responsibilities and protects the public from financial harm caused by misconduct or errors. By securing this bond, notaries demonstrate accountability and compliance with state requirements, making it a vital step in obtaining and maintaining a Michigan notary commission.

Get our Michigan Driver Education Provider Bond.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Michigan Notary Bond:

What happens if a claim is made against my notary bond?

If a valid claim is paid out by the surety, the notary is legally obligated to reimburse the surety company for the amount paid, up to the ,000 bond limit.

Does the bond protect me as a notary?

No. The bond protects the public, not the notary. To protect yourself, you may purchase Errors and Omissions (E&O) Insurance, which covers mistakes and legal defense costs.

Can I renew my notary bond?

Yes. When your notary commission is up for renewal, you must purchase a new $10,000 bond and repeat the filing process with your county clerk.

What is the difference between a Michigan Notary Bond and Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance?

  • Bond: Protects the public and requires reimbursement if a claim is paid.

  • E&O Insurance: Protects the notary personally by covering defense costs and damages for mistakes or unintentional errors.

Who can make a claim against my notary bond?

Any member of the public who suffers financial harm due to your misconduct, fraud, or negligence as a notary may file a claim.

Need our Michigan Collection Agency Bond.