Illinois notaries who perform remote online notarizations (RON) must carry a $30,000 surety bond, which is higher than the standard $5,000 bond for traditional notaries. This enhanced bond protects the public from financial losses due to improper notarial acts conducted electronically via two-way audio-video communica…
Overview
What it is.
Illinois notaries who perform remote online notarizations (RON) must carry a $30,000 surety bond, which is higher than the standard $5,000 bond for traditional notaries. This enhanced bond protects the public from financial losses due to improper notarial acts conducted electronically via two-way audio-video communica…
Who usually needs it
Illinois notaries public who wish to perform remote online notarizations (RON) in addition to or instead of traditional in-person notarizations. This includes new notary applicants seeking combined RON/traditional authority and existing notaries adding RON to their current commission.
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.
Tell us the bond name, state, and amount on your form.
Share business and applicant info so the team can quote it.
Sign and pay; we issue the bond and send you the documents.
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.
StateILBond amount$30,000ObligeeIllinois Secretary of StateBond classNotary BondCategoryProfessional ServicesBondNotary Public Bond - with Remote NotarizationPlain descriptionIllinois notaries who perform remote online notarizations (RON) must carry a $30,000 surety bond, which is higher than the standard $5,000 bond for traditional notaries. This enhanced bond protects the public from finan…Who needs this bondIllinois notaries public who wish to perform remote online notarizations (RON) in addition to or instead of traditional in-person notarizations. This includes new notary applicants seeking combined RON/traditional autho…
FAQ
Common questions.
Why is the Illinois remote notary bond $30,000 instead of $5,000?
Illinois requires a higher $30,000 bond for notaries performing remote online notarizations (RON) because remote notarial acts carry additional risks compared to traditional in-person notarizations. The increased bond amount provides greater financial protection for the public against potential errors, fraud, or improper notarial acts conducted via audio-video technology. New applicants can obtain a single $30,000 combined bond, while existing notaries with a $5,000 traditional bond must add a $25,000 supplemental bond to reach the required $30,000 total.
Can I add remote notarization to my existing Illinois notary commission?
Yes, existing Illinois notaries can add remote online notarization (RON) authority to their current commission mid-term. You must obtain an additional $25,000 surety bond (bringing your total to $30,000), complete the required 3-hour RON training course, pass the exam, select an approved RON technology platform, and submit an updated application to the Illinois Secretary of State with the $25 fee. Your RON authority will be added to your existing commission without restarting your 4-year term.
What requirements must I meet to become an Illinois remote notary?
To perform remote online notarizations in Illinois, you must: (1) hold a valid Illinois notary commission in good standing, (2) complete a 3-hour notary education course including RON-specific training and pass the exam, (3) obtain a $30,000 surety bond (or add $25,000 to your existing $5,000 bond), (4) contract with an Illinois Secretary of State-approved RON technology platform that provides two-way audio-video communication and credential analysis, (5) obtain an electronic seal and maintain an electronic journal, and (6) submit your application with all required documents and fees to the Illinois Secretary of State. RON became available in Illinois on January 1, 2024.