Independent Contractor Notary Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of contract work, the importance of Independent Contractor Notaries has never been more evident.

As the need for legally binding and authenticated documents continues to rise, the demand for skilled individuals who can oversee, verify, and endorse these documents also grows.

But let’s dive deeper: What’s truly expected from an Independent Contractor Notary?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the depth of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the intricacies of notarial work,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Independent Contractor Notary job description template, created for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Independent Contractor Notary Duties and Responsibilities

Independent Contractor Notaries play a pivotal role in the authentication of legal documents, often working independently for various clients.

Their primary responsibility is to acknowledge signatures and help prevent fraud in legal transactions.

Here are the duties and responsibilities of an Independent Contractor Notary:

• Verify the identity of individuals involved in the signing of documents
• Ensure that all parties are signing documents out of their own free will and are not under duress
• Witness the signing of important documents and verify signatures
• Apply their notary seal to authenticate the documents
• Maintain a record of all notary services provided, including details about the document and the individuals involved
• Offer mobile notary services to clients who are unable to come to their office
• Follow all state-specific laws and regulations related to notarial acts
• Stay updated on changes in laws and regulations that affect their duties as a notary
• Ensure their notary commission and seal are up-to-date and valid

 

Independent Contractor Notary Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a reliable Independent Contractor Notary to act as a witness by applying their official seal onto documents immediately after witnessing signing.

The role involves verifying people’s identities, witnessing signatures and deterring fraud, making it a crucial role for law enforcement.

Our ideal candidates should have a great eye for detail, a strong ethical code, and excellent communication skills.

Ultimately, the role of the Independent Contractor Notary is to enforce the legality and authenticity of important documents, ensuring peace of mind for all involved parties.

 

Responsibilities

• Witness signatures on important documents and verify signer’s identity
• Deter fraud and ensure all parties are entering agreements knowingly and willingly
• Apply Notary Seal to certify the authenticity of the signatures and documents
• Maintain notary journal to record all notarizations
• Stay updated with knowledge of laws and regulations regarding notarization
• Provide excellent customer service and communication to all clients
• Follow all state requirements and ethical standards related to Notary Public duties

 

Qualifications

• Current Notary Public Commission
• Proven experience as a Notary Public
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills
• Strong ethical mindset and impartiality
• Excellent communication and customer service skills
• Ability to manage and prioritize tasks
• High school diploma; additional certification as a Paralegal or Legal Assistant is a plus

 

Benefits

• Flexible working hours
• Potential for high earning depending on the volume of work
• Ability to work independently
• Possibility to grow and expand professional network

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Independent Contractor Notary
• Work Environment: Varied, with the possibility of working remotely or travelling to client locations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Notary Public Administrator or similar.
• Pay: Pay is usually per assignment and is negotiated based on complexity, urgency, and travel requirements.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Contract
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Independent Contractor Notary Do?

An Independent Contractor Notary, often referred to as a mobile notary, is a certified professional who travels to the clients’ locations to perform a variety of notarial services.

Their primary responsibility is to verify the identity of individuals involved in the signing of important documents.

This can include real estate transactions, legal documents, financial agreements, contracts, and more.

They ensure that the parties involved are willingly signing the documents and are of sound mind to understand what they are signing.

A notary also verifies that the documents are filled out correctly and ensures the use of proper signatures and initials where necessary.

If necessary, an Independent Contractor Notary can administer oaths and affirmations, as well as take acknowledgments and depositions.

They also provide a notarial certificate that validates the signing, which usually includes their signature, official seal, and the date.

They are responsible for maintaining a detailed record book of all notarial acts they perform, ensuring they adhere to all state laws and ethical standards.

While not offering legal advice, they are expected to have enough knowledge to guide their clients through the notarization process, explaining what the document means and how the signing should be conducted.

Their role is crucial in preventing fraud and ensuring that legal documents are executed accurately and lawfully.

 

Independent Contractor Notary Qualifications and Skills

An Independent Contractor Notary must be trustworthy and capable of handling sensitive information with discretion.

The skills and qualifications for this role include:

• Notarial skills and thorough knowledge of notary laws and regulations to perform various notarial acts such as affirmations, oaths, jurats, acknowledgments, and more
• Excellent attention to detail in order to accurately complete paperwork, verify identities, and confirm the willingness and awareness of those involved in the signing process
• Strong interpersonal skills to interact professionally with a diverse clientele
• Superb communication skills, both written and verbal, to effectively explain the notarization process and provide clear instructions to clients
• Organizational skills to manage appointments, handle documents, and maintain detailed and accurate records of notarial acts performed
• Customer service skills to answer clients’ questions, build relationships, and ensure a positive experience
• Integrity and trustworthiness, as notaries serve as impartial witnesses to prevent fraud and establish the authenticity of signatures
• Physical abilities to travel to different locations for mobile notary services and to carry the necessary supplies and documents

 

Independent Contractor Notary Experience Requirements

Independent Contractor Notaries typically require a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete a specialized course of study approved by their state’s Secretary of State or similar governing body.

They may have one or two years of experience in legal, administrative or customer service roles where they gained an understanding of legal documentation, customer confidentiality and ethical guidelines.

This experience can be gained through entry-level positions in law firms, real estate agencies, banks, or other business environments where notarial services are commonly required.

Additionally, most states require that an Independent Contractor Notary successfully pass a state-administered exam that demonstrates their knowledge of notarial law and ethical standards.

Candidates with three to five years of experience often develop their expertise by serving in various types of notarial acts, such as acknowledgments, jurats, oaths, and affirmations.

Those with more than five years of experience might possess additional certifications or professional memberships, indicating their commitment to the field.

They may also have experience managing their own notary business or providing mobile notary services, demonstrating their ability to handle complex notarial tasks independently.

 

Independent Contractor Notary Education and Training Requirements

To become an Independent Contractor Notary, individuals must first complete a state-specific notary education course.

This course typically provides an overview of the duties, responsibilities, and legal obligations of a notary public.

Once the course is completed, individuals are required to pass a state-administered notary exam.

This exam tests the individual’s knowledge of notary law, ethics, and procedures.

The next step is to apply for a notary commission with the individual’s state government.

The application process typically involves submitting proof of education, passing the notary exam, and undergoing a background check.

In some states, notaries are also required to obtain a surety bond, which is a form of insurance that protects the public from any mistakes the notary may make.

Once commissioned, a notary is legally permitted to perform a variety of duties, including administering oaths, verifying signatures, and witnessing the signing of important documents.

To maintain their commission, notaries must renew their credentials every few years, depending on their state’s requirements.

This often involves completing continuing education courses and passing a renewal exam.

While not required, some Independent Contractor Notaries may choose to pursue additional training or certification in specific areas, such as mortgage signing.

This can enhance their skill set and increase their marketability.

 

Independent Contractor Notary Salary Expectations

The average salary for an Independent Contractor Notary is approximately $57,500 (USD) per year.

Actual earnings may fluctuate based on the volume of transactions, years of experience, and the region in which they operate.

 

Independent Contractor Notary Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Independent Contractor Notary need?

An Independent Contractor Notary should possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with clients.

They should also have strong organizational skills to manage their own schedules and tasks efficiently.

Attention to detail is crucial as they need to verify the authenticity of documents and identities.

Basic computer skills are also required as most of their work is done electronically.

 

Do Independent Contractor Notaries need a degree?

Independent Contractor Notaries do not necessarily need a degree, but they must pass a state-administered exam to be commissioned as a notary public.

Some states require notaries to complete a course before taking the exam.

The specific requirements vary by state, so it’s important to check local regulations.

 

What should you look for in an Independent Contractor Notary resume?

When reviewing an Independent Contractor Notary’s resume, ensure that they have a current notary public commission.

Experience in notary services or related fields such as law or real estate is a plus.

Also, look for evidence of strong organizational, communication, and customer service skills.

 

What qualities make a good Independent Contractor Notary?

A good Independent Contractor Notary is trustworthy, as they are tasked with authenticating important documents.

They are organized and manage their time efficiently to meet clients’ needs.

They also possess excellent communication skills to explain notarial acts to clients and maintain good client relationships.

A commitment to continuing education is also important to stay updated on legal changes affecting notarial acts.

 

What are the typical duties of an Independent Contractor Notary?

An Independent Contractor Notary is responsible for verifying the identities of individuals involved in the execution of documents, witnessing signatures on documents, and administering oaths when necessary.

They also ensure that all parties are entering into agreements knowingly and willingly.

Notaries may be asked to notarize various documents such as wills, deeds, powers of attorney, and medical documents.

They also need to manage their own schedules, maintain records of notarial acts, and ensure the confidentiality of client information.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we have revealed the true essence of what it means to be an independent contractor notary.

Guess what?

It’s not just about stamping and signing documents.

It’s about building a bridge between legality and trust, one notarization at a time.

With our ready-to-use independent contractor notary job description template and real-world examples, you’re well-equipped to take the next step.

But why stop there?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your crucial tool for crafting perfect job listings or refining your resume to stand out.

Remember:

Every notarization is a crucial piece in the puzzle of legality.

Let’s build that bridge. Together.

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