A Notary Signing Agent is a Notary who has been trained to handle loan documents in real estate transactions. Lenders and title companies hire Signing Agents as independent contractors to assist in the last step of the loan process, which enables the loan to be funded.
Notary Signing Agent Responsibilities
The responsibilities of a Notary Signing Agent generally include:
- Printing loan documents
- Meeting the signer and notarizing their signature
- Returning the documents for processing
- Following any additional instructions, such as faxing back documents or using a specific mailing service to return the paperwork safely
What Notary Signing Agents can’t do
Signing Agents are not loan officers and should never try to explain loan documents or answer questions from a signer regarding the terms of a loan. Any questions regarding loan terms or the content of the documents during a signing should be directed to a qualified loan officer.
Notary Signing Agent vs. Notary Public
All Notary Signing Agents are commissioned Notaries, but not all Notaries are Notary Signing Agents. Below are the differences between a Loan Signing Agent and a Notary Public. Download the infographic.
| Aspect |
Notary Signing Agent |
Notary Public |
| Qualifications |
Notary Public commission and background check |
Notary Public commission |
| Training |
Specialization in loan documents and closing procedures |
General Notary Public services |
| Scope of work |
Presenting documents, verifying signer identity, screening signers for their awareness and willingness, completing the certificate, and returning documents |
Verifying signer identity, screening signers for their awareness and willingness, and completing the certificate |
| Fees |
Sets their own fees based on document volume and complexity |
Often limited to state maximum fee |
| Notarization length (excluding travel) |
45 mins to a few hours |
5-10 mins |
Both Notary Signing Agents and Notaries Public are prohibited from providing legal advice unless they’re also an attorney.
Notary Signing Agent Income
The earning potential of a Notary Signing Agent is typically higher than that of Notaries because there’s no maximum fee Notary Signing Agents may charge per assignment.
As independent contractors who work with lenders or escrow offices, Loan Signing Agents determine how much they charge and earn from their services.
Signing Agents negotiate their fees based on business expenses, companies they work with, travel and time required for assignments, and demand for services in their area. Notary Signing Agents generally make between $50 to $200 to present, notarize, and return a loan document package.
Where Notary Signing Agents Find Work
Notary Signing Agents can find loan signing assignments in a couple of ways.
Getting listed in a Signing Agent directory is an easy way to get found online. There are several online directories where you can make your contact information available to lenders, financial institutions and signing services offering assignments.
In addition to signing up with several directories, you can also promote your services by networking within your local community. Attend business and trade events, connect with UPS and FedEx store managers, and build relationships with other Notaries in your area.
Benefits of Being a Notary Signing Agent
Becoming a Notary Signing Agent has a few benefits:
- Income opportunity: The fee you can charge for handling loan document packages is separate from the fee for regular notarizations, which means you'll earn more per assignment.
- Autonomy: Since Notary Signing Agents are independent contractors, you’ll control your schedule and decide how many notarizations you want to take on for the day.
- Easy transition: If you're already commissioned as a traditional Notary Public, you're one step closer to becoming a Notary Signing Agent. Having experience as a mobile Notary and being familiar with the notarization process gives you a leg up over the competition.
Becoming a Notary Signing Agent
When you’re ready to become a Notary Signing Agent, check if your state has any restrictions or limitations on how you do your work as a Loan Signing Agent.
If you don’t have your Notary Public commission yet, you’ll need to follow the steps in our state-specific guide to become appointed. If you’re already a Notary, pass the industry-required background screening and exam before you start offering loan signing services.
Last updated: Aug 21, 2024