Tennessee law requires all notaries public to buy and keep a $10,000 surety bond for the full 4-year commission term. The bond costs between $30 and $50. It protects the public against financial loss from notary misconduct or errors. It does not protect you, so if the surety pays a claim, you must reimburse it. To protect your own assets, add Errors and Omissions insurance.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Bond amount | $10,000 |
| Who requires it | State of Tennessee, all notaries |
| Term | Full 4-year commission |
| Cost | $30 to $50 |
| Protects | The public, not the notary |
| Recommended add-on | E&O insurance |
What the bond does
The bond covers financial damages to affected parties caused by notary errors or misconduct. It does not protect the notary. If the surety company pays out a claim, it requires you to reimburse it.
Because of that, it is highly recommended to buy E&O insurance in addition to the bond. E&O protects your own personal assets against honest mistakes.
How to get and file your bond
Bonds can be purchased instantly online from licensed providers. Here is the full path to your commission:
- Apply and be elected. Get an application from your county clerk’s office, pay the application fee, and be elected by your county’s legislative body.
- Obtain your commission. Once your application is processed, the Secretary of State assigns your commission dates.
- Purchase your $10,000 surety bond.
- Take the oath. Appear in person at your local County Clerk’s office with your bond and commission letter to take the oath of office and officially file your bond.
For county-specific filing procedures, see the National Notary Association Tennessee guide.
Frequently asked questions
How much is a Tennessee notary bond?
The bond costs between $30 and $50 for the full 4-year term.
How big does the bond have to be?
$10,000, set by the state for all notaries.
Does the bond protect me?
No. It protects the public. If the surety pays a claim, you must repay it. Add E&O insurance to protect yourself.
How long does it last?
The full 4-year commission term.
Where do I file the bond?
In person at your local County Clerk’s office, where you also take your oath of office, after the Secretary of State assigns your commission.
