Michigan Notary Frequently Asked Questions
Are you a new notary public? This is a list of our most frequently asked questions about becoming a notary and what supplies you will need in the state of Michigan .
Michigan Notary Public: a person authorized to perform certain legal formalities such as: acknowledgements, oaths, affirmations, jurats, take depositions, issue subpoenas fro civil actions and probate proceedings, copy certification of certain documents and execute protests. A notary can also be referred to as a signing agent.
See our How to Become a Notary Infographic for an easy breakdown of the steps you will need to take.
Complete the Notary Application and submit it, with a $10 filing fee, to the county clerk where you reside. Aside from the application, you must obtain a $10,000 surety bond and take an oath of office. Within 90 days of your application approval, this must be send to the Michigan Department of State of the Great Seal.
Anyone 18 years of age or older
Must be a resident or maintain a business in Michigan
Must be a U.S. citizen or have proof of legal residency
Must be able to read and write in English
Must not have any felony convictions from the last 10 years
Must not have been convicted of two or more misdemeanors
Must not have three or more misdemeanors, from the last five years, that involve violation of the Michigan Notary Public Act
Anywhere in the state of Michigan.
You can notarize for any member of the public who makes a sensible request and meets all the requirements for notarization. For Example: Must have proof of identity and be physically present.
The state of Michigan makes it mandatory for notaries to read the current statues that regulate notarial acts, but no exam is required.
All Michigan notaries are required to obtain a $10,000 surety bond. The bond must be filed in your appointed county. Licensed attorneys are not required to have a surety bond if they are in good standing with the state of Michigan. This is verified by including your state bar number with your application.
Errors and Omissions insurance (E&O) is NOT required, but it is recommended for your protection.
The application filing fee is $10
The price of the bonds and insurance will vary depending on the vendor
Prices on Notary Supplies may vary (Notary seal stamps and embossers)
No equipment is required, but you are strongly encouraged to use the following
Notary Seal Stamp or Embosser
Stamps and seals are customized with Name, Notary Public, State of Michigan, County, Commission Expiration Date and Acting in the County of____.
Notary Records Journal
Journal of notarial acts is suggested for keeping track of all notarization for your own protection because it makes it harder for pages to be misplaced or removed.
Although not a requirement, if you believe it is helpful for your business to have these, then it is a good idea. If you work for a company as a notary singing agent, then discuss with them if this would be necessary.
Yes, since being a notary grants you certain permissions and responsibilities, there is also the need for insurance which was noted earlier.
Risk should be assessed on a case by case basis, but being a notary signing agent comes with the responsibility of fully understanding the risks involved. Having E&O Insurance can potentially reduce your exposure to risk.
A Michigan notary term is valid for six or seven years ending on the notary's birthday. A term can be no more than seven years and no less than six years. Then you can apply to renew your commission.