Contents
A notary public is an individual commissioned by the state to serve the public as an impartial witness in the taking of acknowledgments, affidavits, and oaths.
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Introduction
This guidance document will explain the steps necessary to become a notary public in South Carolina. A notary public is a state-commissioned official who witnesses the signings of important documents and administering of oaths. Notaries public are sometimes called upon to provide services in other languages, so they must be proficient in the languages they offer. If you wish to become a notary public in South Carolina, read on for information about the commissioning process.
What is a notary and what do they do?
A notary is an individual commissioned by the state to serve the public as an impartial witness in the execution of documents and to administer oaths. Notaries are also sometimes called “notaries public” or “signing agents.” The main duty of a notary is to prevent fraud by ensuring that all parties to a transaction are who they say they are and that they understand what they are signing. Notaries also take affidavits and affirmations, certify copies of documents, and perform other related services.
The requirements to become a notary in South Carolina
In order to become a notary in South Carolina, you must:
-Be at least 18 years old
-Be a resident of South Carolina or a resident of a bordering state who works in South Carolina
-Be able to read and write English
-Have no felony convictions
In addition, you must purchase a surety bond in the amount of $7,500 and submit a completed application to the South Carolina Secretary of State’s office.
The process of becoming a notary in South Carolina
Becoming a notary in South Carolina is a two-step process: first, you must obtain a surety bond, and then you must file your application with the Secretary of State’s office.
You can get a surety bond from any surety company licensed to do business in South Carolina. The cost of the bond depends on the amount of coverage you purchase, but is typically around $100. Once you have your bond, you need to file your application with the Secretary of State’s office. The application fee is $40, and you will need to include a copy of your surety bond and a passport-style photo.
You will also be required to take an online notary education course. The course is $15, and you will need to pass a quiz with a score of 80% or higher in order to become a notary in South Carolina.
The benefits of becoming a notary in South Carolina
There are many benefits to becoming a notary in South Carolina. As a notary, you will be able to:
– Officiate at weddings
– Perform other important ceremonies
– Serve as an impartial witness to the signing of important documents
– Notarize documents for use in other states
– Become a member of the Better Business Bureau (BBB)
– Get discounts on Notary Public liability insurance
