Mind Od An Entrepreneur

How to Become a Paid Notary Public in Ohio: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you looking to start a business as a paid notary public in Ohio? Whether you're looking for a side hustle or a full-time career, becoming a notary is a rewarding opportunity. Notaries in Ohio are allowed to charge a fee for their services, and there is a high demand for notary services in various fields, including real estate, legal services, and finance.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of becoming a paid notary in Ohio, answer common questions, and provide helpful resources to get you started.

Why Become a Notary Public in Ohio?

Before diving into the steps, you might be wondering why you should consider becoming a notary public. Here are a few reasons:

• Steady Demand for Services: Many businesses, law offices, banks, and real estate agencies need notarized documents.
• Potential Earnings: Ohio allows notaries to charge up to $5 per signature. You can also earn additional fees if you charge for travel or administrative services.
• Flexibility: You can offer mobile notary services, meaning you can travel to clients' locations for added convenience.

Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a Paid Notary Public in Ohio

1. Meet the Eligibility Requirements

To become a notary public in Ohio, you must meet the following requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident.
• Be an Ohio resident or have a place of business in Ohio.
• Be able to read and write in English.
• Have no felony convictions (unless your civil rights have been restored).

2. Complete the Online Notary Application

Once you confirm that you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply online through the Ohio Secretary of State’s website. Here’s what to do:

• Visit the Ohio Secretary of State website at https://www.sos.state.oh.us.
• Create an account or log in if you already have one.
• Complete the online notary application by providing personal details, including your address, email, and social security number.
• Answer questions confirming your eligibility.

3. Take a Notary Education Course (If Required)

In Ohio, you don’t need to take a mandatory notary education course or exam unless you're applying for the first time or have had a prior commission revoked. If you need to complete an education course, there are several online providers that offer courses for a reasonable fee.

4. Submit the Application and Pay the Fee

• Once your application is complete, submit it to the Ohio Secretary of State.
• Pay the $15 application fee online.
• Your application will be processed, and the Secretary of State will review your criminal history, if applicable.

5. Wait for Approval

Once your application is processed, you will receive notification from the Ohio Secretary of State that your notary commission has been approved. You will then receive your official notary commission certificate.

6. Purchase a Notary Seal and Journal

After receiving your commission, you will need to purchase the following tools:

• Notary Seal/Stamp: This stamp includes your name, commission number, and the phrase "Notary Public." You can purchase it from office supply stores or online vendors.
• Notary Journal: Although not required by law, it's a best practice to keep a journal of your notarizations. This helps maintain accurate records for both legal and professional purposes.

7. Start Offering Notary Services

Now that you're officially a notary, you can start providing notarization services and charging for them. Ohio law allows notaries to charge up to $5 per signature. Additionally, you can charge more for travel fees if you’re offering mobile notary services.

8. Market Your Notary Services

• Advertise locally: Consider creating business cards, flyers, or brochures to distribute in your local community.
• Use online directories: Websites like Notary Rotary and 123Notary offer directories of notaries, where you can create a profile and find clients.
• Offer mobile notary services: If you’re willing to travel, you can charge additional fees for travel time and expenses, which can be a good way to earn more.

9. Consider Becoming an Online Notary (Optional)

If you want to expand your services, consider becoming an online notary in Ohio. Online notarization is available in Ohio and allows you to notarize documents remotely, via video conference. To become an online notary:

• You must already be commissioned as a traditional notary.
• Complete additional training and submit a separate application to the Ohio Secretary of State.
• Use approved technology for remote notarizations.
• Charge a higher fee for online notarization services.

10. Renew Your Notary Commission

Your Ohio notary commission is valid for 5 years. To continue offering notarization services, you will need to renew your commission before it expires. The renewal process is similar to the initial application and involves submitting a renewal form and paying a small fee.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much can I charge for notary services in Ohio?

In Ohio, you can charge up to $5 per signature for notarization services. Additional fees can be charged for travel and administrative tasks.

2. Do I need to take a test to become a notary in Ohio?

No, Ohio does not require a test for most applicants. However, if you are applying for the first time or have had a prior commission revoked, you may need to take an educational course.

3. Can I notarize documents remotely in Ohio?

Yes, Ohio allows for remote online notarization (RON). You can become an online notary after completing additional training and submitting a separate application to the Ohio Secretary of State.

4. Do I need to keep a notary journal in Ohio?

While not required by Ohio law, it is highly recommended to keep a notary journal for your own records. This helps protect both you and your clients.

5. How long does it take to get approved as a notary in Ohio?

The approval process typically takes a few weeks, depending on how quickly the Ohio Secretary of State processes your application.

Contact Information

For more information or specific questions about becoming a notary public in Ohio, you can contact the Ohio Secretary of State’s office:

• Website: https://www.sos.state.oh.us
• Phone: (614) 466-2655
• Email: notary@sos.state.oh.us

Resources

Here are some useful resources to help you become a successful notary in Ohio:

• Ohio Secretary of State - Notary Public Information: Notary Public Resources
• National Notary Association (NNA): Offers resources, education, and certification for notaries. National Notary Association
• Notary Rotary: Directory and resources for notaries. Notary Rotary
• Online Notary Resources: For those interested in becoming an online notary in Ohio. Ohio Remote Online Notary Information

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By following these steps and utilizing the resources above, you can get started with your notary public career in Ohio. Whether you're offering in-person services or working remotely, there are plenty of opportunities to grow your business and earn a steady income.

If you have any more questions, feel free to leave them in the comments below!