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California bonds

California — Notary Bonds

California’s notary handbook requires a $15,000 bond and oath filing with the county clerk within thirty calendar days from the commission term’s start. Buying the bond alone does not complete that filing.

Also known as California Notary Bond; California — Notary Bond

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Recorded state
California
Category
Notary bonds & related insurance

What this bond does

The bond serves as a limited source of funds for paying claims against the notary due to misconduct or negligence.

Who needs it
New and renewing California notaries preparing to file their oath and bond.
Who it protects
Members of the public with claims arising from the notary's misconduct or negligence.

Your bond option

This is the option on record for this bond.

  • California — Notary Bond · Term: confirm with provider · E&O inclusion: confirm with provider
    Purchase Now (opens in a new tab)Continue to our secure checkout partner, RLI (opens in a new tab).

The bond amount describes the limit of the bond obligation, not the price. A listed amount does not establish what the requesting party requires. The premium is what you pay and must be confirmed for the actual option. An E&O limit, where listed, is separate errors and omissions insurance.

Bond Amount

California requires a $15,000 surety bond. Check that amount and your commission dates in the provider's application.

Filing Deadline

File the oath and bond with the county clerk within 30 calendar days from the start of your commission term. Plan delivery early; the handbook does not provide an exception for mail delays.

Liability

The bond does not protect the notary from personal financial responsibility for their actions.

Sources

Have these ready

  1. Have your commission name, start date, and principal business county ready.
  2. Use Purchase Now to continue to RLI in a new tab, and check the $15,000 bond against your commission paperwork.
  3. After issuance, complete oath and bond filing with the county clerk within the 30-calendar-day window.

Questions about this bond

Is the notary bond an insurance policy?

No, the bond is not an insurance policy; it is designed only to provide a limited source of funds for paying claims against the notary.

Where should I file my oath and bond?

The oath and bond must be filed with the county clerk's office in the county where the notary maintains a principal place of business.

What if I miss the 30-day filing deadline?

The commission will not be valid and the person may not act as a notary until a new appointment is obtained.

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