Last Updated on January 18, 2026 by Insurance Pros
Michigan Notary Bond & E&O Insurance Guide: Cost, Steps, and What’s Required
If you want to become a notary public in Michigan, you will need a $10,000 surety bond, and you will file it with the
county clerk as part of the commissioning process. The bond protects the public, not the notary.
This guide explains what the bond does, how much it typically costs, how to apply, and when Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance makes sense.
📝 Request a Michigan Notary bond
📞 Call 248-888-1134
Quick summary:
- Michigan notaries must obtain and file a $10,000 surety bond with the county clerk and take the Oath of Office.
- Bond cost varies, but the state notes it is generally $50–$100.
- E&O insurance is optional and is designed to help protect the notary from the financial impact of an honest mistake.
What a Michigan Notary Bond Is (And What It’s For)
A notary bond is a type of surety bond required by the State of Michigan. It exists to protect the public if a notary’s official act causes financial harm.
Importantly, a surety bond is not the same thing as insurance that protects you personally.
This is one reason many notaries also consider E&O insurance.
Michigan Notary Bond Requirements
Michigan requires notaries public to obtain a $10,000 surety bond and file it with the county clerk in the county where the notary will be appointed.
The county clerk also administers the Oath of Office as part of this step.
Official Michigan resource:
Michigan Secretary of State: Notary Services
How Much Does a Michigan Notary Bond Cost?
Cost depends on the provider, but the Michigan Secretary of State notes that bond pricing generally falls in the $50–$100 range.
Some providers offer lower or bundled pricing, but avoid judging by price alone; reliability and turnaround time matter when you’re trying to complete the filing process.
Plan for clerk and application fees: Michigan’s application instructions commonly reference county clerk filing and oath fees.
which can vary by county, plus an application fee.
Bond vs. Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance
People confuse these two because they’re often sold together, but they do different jobs:
| Coverage | Who it protects | What it helps with |
|---|---|---|
| $10,000 Notary Bond | The public | Financial harm can result from an improper notarial act. |
| E&O Insurance (optional) | The notary | Costs tied to an unintentional notarial error or omission |
The National Notary Association explains E&O as protection for the notary if an unintentional mistake causes financial harm.
Michigan Notary E&O overview (NNA)
How to Apply for a Michigan Notary Bond
Michigan’s process is straightforward when you do it in the right order. Here’s the typical path:
- Complete the Michigan notary application with accurate personal information.
- Obtain a $10,000 surety bond written for the state-required term through a provider licensed to do business in Michigan.
- Take your bond and application to your county clerk to file the bond and take the Oath of Office.
- Submit your processed application and required fee per state instructions.
Michigan Notary Application: Michigan’s application includes filing a $10,000 bond with the county clerk and taking the oath of office.
Common Mistakes That Delay Notary Approval
- Purchasing the bond but failing to submit it to the county clerk within the stipulated timeframe (some counties have time limits) is a common mistake that delays notary approval.
- The application may contain incorrect county information or lack clerk certification.
- Ordering a stamp or seal before receiving the final commission details, such as your name, county, and expiration date, can lead to issues.
- Assuming the bond protects the notary personally, it is important to note that it generally protects the public.
Do you need notary stamps or supplies?
After commissioning, you will need a notary stamp or embosser that matches Michigan’s required details.
Wait until you have your finalized commission information so you don’t end up reordering.
Apply online today.
Fill out the form below to request your Michigan notary bond:
Need help choosing bond and E&O options? Call 248-888-1134 to speak with a licensed Michigan bond specialist.
For more resources, visit:
Michigan Notary Bond Requirements
📍 Final Step: Visit Your County Clerk
Once you have your bond, bring it to your county clerk’s office to file it and take the Oath of Office.
The clerk verifies and certifies the application step before it is submitted per Michigan’s instructions.
Michigan Notary Bond FAQs
Is a notary bond required in Michigan?
Yes. Michigan requires notaries public to obtain a $10,000 surety bond and file it with the county clerk in the county of appointment.
Does the notary bond protect me?
The bond is designed to protect the public. If a claim is paid, the surety may seek reimbursement from the notary.
Many notaries consider E&O insurance for added personal protection.
Do I have to buy E&O insurance?
No. E&O insurance is optional, but it can help protect you if an unintentional mistake creates financial loss or legal costs.
Where do I file my Michigan notary bond?
You file your bond with the county clerk and take the Oath of Office at that time.
Want to get this done without confusion? Request your Michigan notary bond, and we’ll help you choose an E&O option if you want extra protection.
