Notary Public

HOW CAN I BECOME A NOTARY?

• Complete an application for notary by visiting the Secretary of State’s website.  A $10.00 fee to the Secretary of State (SOS) is required.
• Once approved, the Secretary will e-mail you that a “Certificate of Appointment” is available at the Clerk’s office.  You have thirty (30) days from notification to complete your Notary Public appointment.
• After receiving your e-mail notification schedule an appointment below or call the office at 859-392-1650.
• Appointments are available Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Kenton County Government Center, 1840 Simon Kenton Way, Suite 1300, Covington, KY
• If you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment, call 859-392-1650
• Bring a current government issued ID and $1,000 insurance bond (KRS 423.390(4).  The surety bond for $1,000.00 must be from an approved insurance company.  Check with an insurance agency to request notary bond information.
• Notary Public commissions are valid for four (4) years and is governed by KRS 423.010.
• Filing Fees:  $19.00 recording fee ($10.00 for recording the bond, $4.00 for taking/preparing the bond, and $5.00 for administering the oath. KRS 64.012)

Who can be a notary?  The following requirements must be met:

• Must be eighteen (18) years or older
• Be a citizen or permanent legal resident of the United States
• Be a resident of or have a place of employment or practice in the county within this Commonwealth where the application is made;
• Be able to read and write English;
• Not be disqualified to receive a commission under KRS 423.395;

Need to change your name? You must apply with the Secretary of State’s Office. You can contact the Secretary of State’s Office at (502) 564-3490 or visit www.sos.ky.gov.

Need to upgrade your notary to electronic/remote online notary?  You must apply with the Secretary of State’s Office. You can contact the Secretary of State’s Office at (502) 564-3490 or visit www.sos.ky.gov.

Effective 1/1/20

Notary FAQ

Q: What is the notary surety bond? A: In order to complete your notary commission, you must post bond in the amount of $1,000.00 with a notary surety bond from an approved insurance company. If the notary does something illegal with regard to notarizing a document, the insurance bond covers the penalty up to $1,000.00.

Q: Can I still have a property owner sign as surety? A: No. As of January 1, 2020, an insurance bond is required.

Q: Is the use of a seal necessary? A: As of January 1, 2020, it is no longer necessary to use a seal.  If the notary does choose to use a stamp or seal, the embossed seal must be inked.  The stamp must include the notary’s: name, title, jurisdiction, commission number, and expiration date. KRS 423.370  Other requirements for a seal apply to electronic and remote online notaries.

Q: Do I have to use my identification number when I notarize a document? A: Yes.  You must include your jurisdiction, commission number and expiration date.

Q: Is there a notary handbook available? A: For further notary information and/or handbook, please go to the Secretary of State’s website www.sos.ky.gov.

Q: Will I be notified when my commission is ready to expire? A: No. The Secretary of State does not send any reminders when your four-year commission will expire.

Q: How do I renew my notary? A: Four weeks prior to commission expiration reapply with the Secretary of State.

Q: How do I upgrade my notary so I can do electronic or remote online notaries?  A: You must contact the Secretary of State office first and apply to be a electronic/remote notary.  Once approved, you will need to secure a $1,000 insurance bond. Bring the bond and a copy of your old notary to the County Clerk’s office for recording. Fee to upgrade is $19.00.

Q: How do I change my name on my notary? A: You need to apply with the Secretary of State for a name change.  This will not extend the life of your current notary but you will receive a new notary certificate.  You will need to complete this change of name with the County Clerk by bringing a copy of your old notary.  Fee for change of name is $19.00