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Notary E&O insurance: what every notary public needs to know

Updated 2026-05-01 ✓ Reviewed for accuracy FounderIgnite Editorial

A notary bond protects your clients from your mistakes. Errors & omissions (E&O) insurance protects you from the cost of a client's claim. Most serious notaries — especially mobile notaries and loan signing agents — carry both.

Short version: Notary E&O runs $65–$200/year and covers your legal defense if a client claims your notarization caused them harm. It's separate from your bond. Loan signing agents need higher limits ($100K+). Get it before you perform your first notarization.

What E&O covers for notaries

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Coverage levels for different notary roles

Notary typeRecommended E&O limitTypical annual cost
General notary public$25,000–$100,000$65–$100/year
Mobile notary$50,000–$100,000$80–$150/year
Notary signing agent (NSA)$100,000–$250,000$100–$250/year

Also need your notary bond?

Most states require a surety bond before commissioning. Get both in one session:

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Required in most states. Same-day online issuance — $50–$100 for a 4-year bond.

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Frequently asked questions

What is notary E&O insurance?
Errors & omissions (E&O) insurance for notaries covers you if a client claims your notarization caused them financial harm. Unlike a notary bond (which protects clients), E&O insurance protects you — paying your legal defense costs and any settlements or judgments against you.
How much does notary E&O insurance cost?
Notary E&O insurance typically runs $65–$200/year for $25,000–$100,000 in coverage. Notary signing agents (who handle loan document signings) typically need higher limits ($100,000–$250,000) and pay $100–$250/year. It's one of the most affordable professional liability policies available.
Do I need E&O insurance if I already have a notary bond?
Yes — they cover different parties. Your notary bond protects the public from your mistakes. E&O insurance protects you from the financial cost of claims made against you. A bond-only notary who is personally sued still faces legal defense costs and personal liability that the bond doesn't cover.
What does notary E&O cover?
Notary E&O covers: legal defense costs if a client sues you for a notarization error, settlements or judgments up to your policy limit, claims of improper identification verification, and claims arising from document errors. It generally doesn't cover intentional fraud or criminal acts.
Do loan signing agents need more coverage?
Yes. Notary signing agents (NSAs) who handle real estate loan closings face higher liability because the documents involved (mortgages, deeds of trust) represent large financial transactions. Most title companies and signing services require NSAs to carry $100,000–$250,000 in E&O coverage.

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Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal, tax, or insurance advice. Coverage availability and pricing vary by state and applicant. Always verify requirements with your state licensing board and confirm policy terms directly with your carrier before relying on this information.