5 Mistakes Notaries Make — and How to Avoid Them

Because nobody told you this part, and it matters more than your stamp.

Getting commissioned is exciting — until you realize that no one gave you a step-by-step manual on what not to do. And unfortunately, most of the mistakes new notaries make are costly, embarrassing, or even illegal.

Let’s save you some trouble. Here are 5 common mistakes new notaries make — and how to steer clear of them from day one.

❌ Mistake #1: Not Knowing Their State Laws
Too many notaries hit the ground running with nothing more than a stamp and a dream… and zero clue about their own state’s rules.

Examples:

Not knowing what ID is acceptable
Not understanding when an oath is required
Using the wrong certificate wording
Thinking “this is how they do it on YouTube” counts as legal advice
✅ How to avoid it:
Study your state’s notary handbook. Know your journal, ID, and certificate requirements inside and out. This is your shield.

❌ Mistake #2: Giving Legal Advice (Even by Accident)
Here’s a secret: most notaries break the law without realizing it — by being too helpful.

If you’ve ever said:

“You should sign here.”
“This is what that document means.”
“You don’t need that page.”
…you may have just practiced law without a license.

✅ How to avoid it:
Stick to what’s factual and neutral. You notarize — you don’t interpret, advise, or explain legal documents. When in doubt, say:

“You may want to consult the document preparer or an attorney for that.”+

❌ Mistake #3: Undercharging for Services
New notaries often price themselves out of business out of fear or insecurity. Charging $25 for a mobile appointment that took an hour round trip? You’re paying to work.

✅ How to avoid it:
Know your worth. Factor in time, mileage, printing, and risk. Start competitive, not desperate. Raise your rates as your skill grows.

Want to be respected? Price like a professional — not like you’re doing favors.

❌ Mistake #4: Missing Details on Loan Signings
If you’re doing signing agent work, details matter. Missing initials, skipped dates, or forgotten scanbacks can get you blacklisted fast.

✅ How to avoid it:

Triple-check every page before leaving the table
Flag pages that require signatures ahead of time
Use checklists
Review the confirmation email for special instructions
A signing agent doesn’t just “notarize” — they manage the entire package.

❌ Mistake #5: Not Treating It Like a Business
If your plan is “just do a few signings here and there,” that’s exactly what you’ll get — a few random signings.

✅ How to avoid it:

Create a business name and brand
Track income and expenses
Market consistently
Set goals and systems
Treat clients like clients — not friends doing you a favor
Successful notaries act like CEOs from day one, even when business is slow.

You’re Going to Make Mistakes — But They Don’t Have to Be Fatal
Mistakes are part of growth. But avoidable mistakes? Those are just expensive lessons.

The more prepared you are, the faster you can build momentum, confidence, and a reputation that gets you referrals — not refunds.

Notary Academy Helps New Notaries Start Strong and Stay Sharp
Our training teaches you the right way — from the law to the logistics — so you don’t learn the hard way.

Your stamp deserves more than guesswork.