My employer paid for my Notary fees such as the exam, bond, etc., and now I will be going to a different job. Do I take my Notary supplies with me, and can I perform notarizations for others, because my Notary bond and other things are addressed for my old workplace? Would I have to change the address? Also, am I allowed to keep all the $15 Notary fee, or do I have to pay anything to the county clerk, or anyone else? — P. P., California
You ask several questions. The first is regarding a change in your work address for your current commission. When you leave employment, your Notary commission goes with you even though your former employer paid for you to become a Notary. You are required, however, to file an address change notification with the Secretary of State within 30 days of the change (Government Code 8213.5). The Secretary of State provides a form on their website with instructions, CA Notary Public Address Change Form.
Your second question is whether you can perform notarial acts under your current commission after you leave your former workplace. The answer is yes. Your commission entitles you to perform notarial acts anywhere within the state of California for the remainder of your commission term.
Your third question is whether you are allowed to keep the entire fee you charge for the notarizations you perform after you leave. That answer also is yes.
Please see our article about who owns your Notary commission, seal and journal for more information about different state guidelines for tools and commissions after changing employment.
Hotline answers are based on the laws in the state where the question originated and may not reflect the laws of other states. If in doubt, always refer to your own state statutes. – The Editors
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