Wisconsin Notary Bond Overview
- Purpose: To protect the public and the state from illegal notary actions
- Who Needs It: Any person applying to become a public notary in Wisconsin
- Regulating Body: The Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions
- Bond Amount: $500
- Premium Price: $20–$100 based on E&O coverage
What Is a Wisconsin Notary Bond?
A Wisconsin notary bond ensures that notaries follow the law and act ethically. By filing this surety bond, you agree to perform all duties as required by law. The bond protects your clients from loss if you fail to do so.
How Much Do Notary Bonds Cost?
Wisconsin notary bonds cost a low, flat rate of $20 for four years of coverage.
Want extra protection? Add on optional errors and omissions coverage for just $40–$80 more. Buy your bond in minutes.
SuretyBonds.com offers the lowest available rates from our nationwide provider network with no added fees.
Bond and E&O Requirements for Wisconsin Notaries
All notaries in Wisconsin need $500 bond coverage and can choose optional E&O coverage. Here’s how they work together:
- Surety Bond: Can reimburse clients for notary malpractice or serious professional mistakes
- E&O Insurance: Protects a notary if a client takes legal action due to accidental errors or omissions
Put simply: the notary bond protects your clients while E&O insurance protects you.
How Do I Get My Notary Bond?
You can get your Wisconsin notary bond in minutes using the form on this page. It only takes three steps:
- Select your E&O coverage option
- Enter your name and address
- Provide payment details
We’ll email you the bond right after you check out. If you don’t see the bond in 5–10 minutes, please check your junk folder.
How Does a Notary Bond Work?
When you file a Wisconsin notary bond, you enter a legally-binding contract with two other parties.
| Bond Party | Description |
|---|---|
| 1) Principal | You, the bonded notary public |
| 2) Obligee | The Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions |
| 3) Surety | Us, the issuing surety provider |
If you break the bond terms, anyone harmed can file a claim on the bond. If a claim is valid, the surety reimburses the damages up to the bond amount.
Can I Renew the Bond?
Wisconsin notary bonds last for four years. If you renew your notary commission, you’ll also need to renew the surety bond.
We’ll send out helpful reminders during the renewal period. To extend your bond term, just pay the renewal premium. We’ll issue a new bond for you to file with the DFI.
Can I Make Changes to My Bond?
If you need to update information on your bond form like a name or address, contact your surety company. You can reach us at [email protected] with the change request.
When possible, we issue free bond rider forms to amend existing bond forms.
How Do I Become a Notary Public in Wisconsin?
The Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions appoints notaries in the state. To be eligible, you must meet these requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a U.S. resident
- Have at least an 8th grade education
- Not have unacceptable arrests or convictions
Submit your application documents and bond by email to [email protected] or by mail. Learn all about the Wisconsin notary application process in our step-by-step guide.
Can I Perform Remote Notarizations?
Once you’re commissioned in Wisconsin, you can also perform remote online notarization (RON). You’ll need to purchase services from a state-approved technology provider.
After completing training with your technology provider, verify your name appears on the list of Wisconsin notaries authorized to perform remote online notarizations. The list is updated weekly.
You can charge up to $25 for a remote notarial act.
