Notary Bonds and Errors & Omissions Insurance Flashcards

What is the required surety bond amount for a Georgia notary public?

Answer: $10,000

Georgia law requires notary publics to maintain a $10,000 surety bond as a condition of their commission.

With which official must a Georgia notary public file their surety bond?

Answer: Clerk of Superior Court

In Georgia, a notary's surety bond must be filed with the Clerk of the Superior Court in the county where the notary resides or works.

How long does a Georgia notary's surety bond remain in effect?

Answer: 4 years

A Georgia notary's surety bond runs concurrently with the 4-year commission term.

Who is primarily protected by a Georgia notary's surety bond?

Answer: Members of the general public

A surety bond is designed to protect the public from financial harm caused by a notary's errors, omissions, or misconduct.

If a surety company pays a claim against a Georgia notary's bond, what is the notary's obligation?

Answer: Reimburse the surety company for the amount paid

Unlike insurance, a surety bond requires the notary (principal) to reimburse the surety company for any claims paid on their behalf.

When must a Georgia notary obtain their surety bond relative to performing notarial acts?

Answer: Before performing any notarial acts

A Georgia notary must have an active, filed surety bond before they are authorized to perform any notarial acts.

What type of coverage is recommended but NOT required by Georgia law to personally protect a notary from liability?

Answer: Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance

While E&O insurance is highly recommended to protect a notary's personal assets from liability claims, it is not a legal requirement in Georgia.