← Back to Bond types
Notary Bond

Illinois Notary Public Bond - Traditional (In-Person)

This $5,000 surety bond protects the public from financial losses caused by improper notarial acts, errors, or misconduct by Illinois notaries performing traditional in-person notarizations. Note that remote/electronic notarizations require a separate endorsement with a higher bond amount ($25,000-$30,000).

Overview

What it is.

This $5,000 surety bond protects the public from financial losses caused by improper notarial acts, errors, or misconduct by Illinois notaries performing traditional in-person notarizations. Note that remote/electronic notarizations require a separate endorsement with a higher bond amount ($25,000-$30,000).

Who usually needs it

Anyone applying for a traditional in-person notary public commission in Illinois must obtain this $5,000 surety bond before submitting their application to the Illinois Secretary of State. This applies to both Illinois residents (4-year commission term) and qualifying non-residents (1-year term).

Pricing & timing

What to expect.

Generic pricing

Notary bonds protect the public from notary errors or misconduct. Typical Pricing:. • Notary bonds: Typically very affordable — often under $100 per term. • No credit check: Required in most states. • Instant approval: Available for most notary bonds. Bond amounts and terms vary by state. Most states require a notary bond before commissioning. This is one of the most affordable bond types available.

Typical timeframe

Issuance timeframe varies by bond type and underwriting

Application

What to do next.

  1. Tell us the bond name, state, and amount on your form.
  2. Share business and applicant info so the team can quote it.
  3. Sign and pay; we issue the bond and send you the documents.
  4. Keep your effective date and renewal date on file with us.
Start the application.

You are on the exact bond page. The next step is to start the quick application.

Details

Bond details.

StateIL
Bond amount$5,000
ObligeeIllinois Secretary of State
Bond classNotary Bond
CategoryNotary
BondIllinois Notary Public Bond - Traditional (In-Person)
Plain descriptionThis $5,000 surety bond protects the public from financial losses caused by improper notarial acts, errors, or misconduct by Illinois notaries performing traditional in-person notarizations. Note that remote/electronic …
Who needs this bondAnyone applying for a traditional in-person notary public commission in Illinois must obtain this $5,000 surety bond before submitting their application to the Illinois Secretary of State. This applies to both Illinois …
FAQ

Common questions.

Who needs the Illinois Notary Public Bond for traditional in-person notarizations?

All individuals applying for or renewing a traditional in-person notary public commission in Illinois must obtain a $5,000 surety bond before submitting their application to the Illinois Secretary of State. This applies to both Illinois residents (who receive a 4-year commission) and qualifying non-residents (who receive a 1-year commission). Note that if you plan to perform remote or electronic notarizations, you'll need a separate endorsement with a higher bond amount ($25,000-$30,000).

What are the requirements to become an Illinois notary public with the traditional bond?

To become an Illinois notary public for traditional in-person notarizations, you must: (1) be at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen, proficient in English, and an Illinois resident or qualifying non-resident, (2) have no prior felony conviction or removal from a notary commission, (3) complete a state-approved 3-hour training course with a 50-question exam (85% passing score), (4) purchase a $5,000 surety bond valid for your commission term, and (5) submit your application, original bond, course certificate, and $15 filing fee to the Illinois Secretary of State at 111 E. Monroe Street, Springfield, IL 62756.

What does the $5,000 Illinois Notary Public Bond cover?

The $5,000 Illinois Notary Public Bond protects the public from financial losses caused by your improper notarial acts, errors, negligence, or misconduct. If someone suffers direct financial harm due to violations of Illinois notary laws (such as forgery, false certification, or improper notarizations), they can file a claim against your bond for up to $5,000. The surety company investigates and pays valid claims, then seeks reimbursement from you. Important: The bond protects the public, not you as the notary. Consider purchasing optional Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance for your own protection.

More bonds
Next step

Ready to move forward?

Pin down whether this is your bond, then start the application. Ava can confirm the right state and license type if you are not sure.