Vermont 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 Vermont.
Vermont Notary Public: a person authorized to perform certain legal formalities such as: affidavits, depositions, certifying copies, acknowledgements, protest instruments and oaths and affirmations. 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.
You must complete an Application of Notary Public and an Official Oath and Affirmation. These must be submitted to the county clerk with a filing fee of $30.
Must be age 18 or older
Must be employed in or a resident of Vermont
Must be employed in or a resident of the county you apply to
Anywhere in the state of Vermont.
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.
No training or testing is needed for Vermont notaries.
Bonds and insurance are not mandatory for Vermont notaries. Errors and Omissions insurance (E&O) is optional, but recommended for your protection against any claims of negligence or damages that result from misconduct.
The application filing fee is $30
The price of the bonds and insurance will vary depending on the vendor
Prices on Notary Supplies may vary (Notary seal stamps and embossers)
There is no required supplies in Vermont, but the following are considered best practice:
Notary Seal Stamp or Embosser
Your notary seal will contain the following information: Name, Notary Public and State of Vermont. It it optional to include your commission expiration date, but if you choose not to, you should have a separate stamp for that.
Notary Records Journal
Although not required, this is ideal for keeping all notarization in chronological order thanks to the durable, bound booklet with numbered paged and a glossary of terms and procedures.
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.
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.
Vermont notaries all expire on the same date. If you sign up February 1-10 of the year of expiration, your commission would last for four years. The current commission is expiring February 10, 2019 and following that, the expiration date will be February 10, 2023.