Unauthorized
Notarizing documents without a valid commission is a crime that can result in fines and imprisonment.
Start a notary business in New Hampshire. Commission term: 5 years. Startup costs: $324 - $2,160
Starting a notary business in New Hampshire requires minimal investment—$324-$2,160 covers your commission, bond, notary seal, and initial marketing. The process takes 2-8 weeks from application to active commission. You'll need a $5,000 surety bond, New Hampshire residency, and a clean background check—no degree required. Mobile notary and loan signings ($75-200 per appointment) generate the best income. Real estate activity in Manchester, Nashua, and Concord drives consistent demand. No state income tax means more of your earnings stay in your pocket.
Notarizing documents without a valid commission is a crime that can result in fines and imprisonment.
Never notarize a document in which you have a personal or financial interest.
You must properly identify signers. Notarizing for someone you cannot identify exposes you to liability.
New Hampshire sets maximum fees notaries can charge. Exceeding these limits is illegal.
| Item | Low | High | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Application Fee State notary application fee | $43 | $43 | State notary application fee |
| Surety Bond $5,000 bond (5-year term) | $54 | $54 | $5,000 bond (5-year term) |
| Notary Seal/Stamp Official notary seal meeting state specifications | $32 | $32 | Official notary seal meeting state specifications |
| Notary Journal Record book for notarial acts | $27 | $27 | Record book for notarial acts |
| Education Course Required or recommended training course | $108 | $108 | Required or recommended training course |
| E&O Insurance Errors and omissions insurance (recommended) | $108 | $108 | Errors and omissions insurance (recommended) |
| Business License If operating as a notary business | $81 | $81 | If operating as a notary business |
| Marketing Website, business cards, directory listings | $216 | $216 | Website, business cards, directory listings |
| Total range | $669 | $669 |
Must be at least 18 years old.
Must be a legal resident of New Hampshire or have principal place of business in the state.
Must pass criminal background check. Certain convictions may disqualify applicants.
Submit notary application with required fee to New Hampshire Secretary of State.
Must obtain and maintain surety bond for 5-year commission term.
Must obtain official notary seal meeting state specifications.
Must take and file oath of office before performing notarial acts.
Record book for documenting all notarial acts performed.
| # | City | Note |
|---|---|---|
| 01 | Manchester Notary services in Manchester, NH | Notary services in Manchester, NH |
| 02 | Nashua Notary services in Nashua, NH | Notary services in Nashua, NH |
| 03 | Concord Notary services in Concord, NH | Notary services in Concord, NH |
| 04 | Portsmouth Notary services in Portsmouth, NH | Notary services in Portsmouth, NH |
| 05 | Dover Notary services in Dover, NH | Notary services in Dover, NH |
Consider becoming a Notary Signing Agent for loan document closings (higher income)
Invest in E&O insurance even if not required - it protects your personal assets
Join the National Notary Association for resources and credibility
Offer mobile notary services to increase your customer base
Keep meticulous records in your notary journal for legal protection
Verify you meet New Hampshire requirements: 18+ years old, state resident, no disqualifying criminal history.
Take any required or recommended notary education course. Some states mandate training.
Complete notary application and submit to New Hampshire Secretary of State with required fee.
Purchase $5,000 surety bond from licensed surety company.
After commission approval, take oath of office and file with county clerk.
Obtain official notary seal/stamp and journal meeting state specifications.
Begin performing notarial acts. Consider mobile notary or loan signing specialization.