Notary Public Permit Requirements in Boston, MA

1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

   Required if you operate as an LLC/corporation or have employees. Sole proprietor notaries with no employees may use their SSN.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online)

   Free

   Immediate (online)

1. Massachusetts Notary Public Commission

   Massachusetts notaries are appointed by the Governor. Applications are submitted through the Secretary of the Commonwealth. Must be a Massachusetts resident or have principal place of business in MA. Commission lasts 7 years.

   Official government source

   $60 (application fee)·4–8 weeks

   $60 (application fee)

   4–8 weeks

2. Notary Errors & Omissions Insurance (Recommended)

   While not required in Massachusetts, E&O insurance protects notaries from financial losses due to unintentional mistakes. Coverage of $25,000–$100,000 typically costs $40–$80/year. The National Notary Association offers bundled packages.

   $40–$80/year·Immediate

   $40–$80/year

   Immediate

1. Boston Business License (if operating a notary business)

   If you operate a standalone notary business (notary signing agent services, mobile notary, etc.) in Boston, you generally need a Business License from the city. If notarization is incidental to another profession (e.g., attorney, bank teller), a separate business license may not be required.

   Official government source

   $100–$500/year depending on gross receipts·1–3 weeks

   $100–$500/year depending on gross receipts

   1–3 weeks

Official Sources

• Massachusetts — Notary Public Requirements
• Massachusetts Secretary of State

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