Starting your notary business can be an empowering step toward financial freedom and flexibility, whether you're looking for a side hustle or dreaming of making it your full-time gig. I know firsthand that it’s not always easy to balance family, work, and life, but I promise—it’s possible! Here’s a guide to help you kickstart your notary business with confidence, whether you’re in Canada or the USA.
1. Understand the Requirements for Your Area
Before anything else, you need to ensure you’re properly authorized to perform notary services. The rules differ slightly between Canada and the USA, so be sure to:
Check your province or state's requirements for becoming a notary. Some provinces in Canada require you to be a lawyer, paralegal or have a certain professional background, while in the USA, the process varies by state (usually no educational or professional background is required).
Complete any necessary training or exams that your region requires. In some areas, you'll need to pass a notary exam or take a training course.
Apply for your notary commission and pay any necessary fees.
Quick Tip: Research the regulations online or check with your local government’s website to get accurate, up-to-date information. This step ensures you’re on the right path!
2. Invest in Quality Notary Tools and Supplies
To do your job efficiently, you'll need the right tools, such as:
A Notary Stamp/Seal: This is your official mark. In the USA, each state has its own guidelines for notary seals, and in Canada, you'll also need an official seal.
A Notary Journal: This is crucial for tracking your notarizations (and it’s legally required in some states/provinces).
Certificates and Acknowledgment Forms: Always keep some handy, especially if you’re notarizing common documents.
Pro Tip for Busy Parents: Consider buying a portable notary kit that’s easy to carry when you’re out and about. You never know when a notarization opportunity might pop up! Click here for an example of mine.
3. Find Your Notary Niche
Not all notarizations are the same, so it's helpful to decide which area you'd like to specialize in. This helps you focus your marketing efforts and become known as the "go-to" expert in that niche. Some options to consider include:
General Notary Work (GNW): Ideal if you’re looking for flexibility and want to serve your local community with things like affidavits, power of attorney, and simple contracts.
Loan Signing Agent: If you have a bit more time, this role involves notarizing real estate documents. It's especially popular in the USA but can be lucrative in Canada too.
Remote Online Notarization (RON): This is an amazing option if you’re tech-savvy and want to offer virtual notarization services. It’s growing in both Canada and the USA! But it's not legal in all states/provinces so be sure to look into this.
Apostille Services: This is perfect if you're looking for a lucrative service and want to help clients with documents used overseas.
Pro Tip: Start with one niche that fits your schedule, then expand as you gain experience.
4. Set Up Your Business Properly
Even if you’re starting part-time, it’s crucial to treat your notary business like a real business from the start. Here’s how:
Choose a business name that’s professional and memorable.
Register your business (even if you’re part-time!). In Canada, you may need to register a sole proprietorship, while in the USA, you might consider an LLC or other structure.
Open a business bank account to keep your finances organized and separate.
Mom Hack: Consider scheduling one weekend or evening to handle the paperwork. You can even involve the kids by letting them help organize your documents haha!
5. Make Marketing Work for You (Even When You're Busy)
You don’t have to spend hours each day marketing your notary services. Here are some efficient ways to market your business without adding stress:
Create a simple website with your services, contact info, and a little about yourself. You can use platforms like Canva or Wix to make it easy!
Leverage social media: Share helpful tips, your notary journey, and stories on Instagram or Facebook. This builds trust and attracts clients.
Network in your community: Join local Facebook groups, attend networking events, or partner with real estate agents, law offices, and nursing homes that need notary services regularly.
Time-Saving Tip: Block off one hour each week to schedule your social media posts and marketing efforts. This way, you stay consistent without getting overwhelmed.
6. Keep Your Finances in Check from Day One
Managing your money can feel like a hassle, but it’s so important for long-term success. Here’s how to stay organized:
Track your income and expenses using a simple app or spreadsheet. You don't need anything fancy!
Set aside money for taxes right from the start. In Canada, you’ll need to consider GST/HST if you’re earning over a certain threshold, while in the USA, you may have to pay quarterly estimated taxes.
Quick Tip: Set up automatic transfers to your savings or tax account so you don’t have to worry about it later.
7. Offer Amazing Customer Service
Word-of-mouth is everything, especially if you’re just starting. Always aim to provide top-notch service by:
Showing up on time and being prepared.
Guiding your clients through the notarization process with patience and kindness.
Following up with a thank-you message or email after each appointment.
Happy clients will refer you to others, helping your business grow organically!
8. Continue Learning and Expanding Your Skills
The more you know, the more you can offer. Invest in yourself by:
Joining notary associations in Canada or the USA to stay updated on industry changes.
Taking online courses or attending webinars to learn new skills, like Apostille processing, Loan Signing Agent training, Notary 101, or Remote Online Notarization.
Pro Tip: Make learning a part of your routine! Listen to podcasts, webinars, courses, and trainings while doing things like cooking dinner, commuting, etc.
9. Protect Yourself with Insurance and Bonding
Accidents happen, and it’s crucial to protect yourself:
Notary Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance helps protect you against mistakes or claims.
Notary Bond (if required by your region) ensures your clients are covered in case of errors.
This step helps you operate with peace of mind, knowing you’re protected.
10. Start Small, and Be Kind to Yourself
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially if you’re balancing a full-time job, family, and your new notary business. Remember:
It’s okay to start small and build up as you gain confidence.
Celebrate every win—whether it’s your first client, setting up your website, or getting your notary stamp!
Final Notary Expert Tip: You’ve got this! Every small step you take gets you closer to your goals. Just keep going, and don’t be afraid to ask for help or join a supportive community of notaries who understand what you’re going through.
Starting your notary business as a busy mom or full-time worker is a brave and rewarding journey. With the right tools, mindset, and a little bit of organization, you’ll be well on your way to creating a successful and flexible side hustle (or full-time gig!) that fits perfectly into your lifestyle.
Ready to start? You've got this, and I’m cheering you on every step of the way!
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