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The Complete Guide on
How to Become a Successful Notary Public & Loan Signing Agent
We'll Help You Put This All Together
Let's Start with the Difference Between Being a Notary Public and a Loan Signing Agent in
Albany, New York
Understanding the difference between a Notary Public and a Loan Signing Agent (LSA) is essential when exploring a career in this field. While both roles are rooted in the authority of a state commission, their responsibilities, training, and earning potential vary. Recognizing these distinctions will help you make informed decisions about your notarial career path.
A Notary Public is commissioned by the state to serve the public as an impartial witness. Their core duties include:
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verifying identities of signers through government-issued ID
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witnessing signatures and ensuring the signer is willing and aware
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administering oaths and affirmations for sworn statements
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completing notarial certificates with their signature and official seal
The scope of a notary’s work is broad. General notarial acts include documents such as affidavits, contracts, powers of attorney, wills, medical directives, and business agreements. Because notaries are regulated by state law, each state sets its own rules on what documents can be notarized and how much can be charged per act.
A Loan Signing Agent (LSA, Signing Agent, Notary Signing Agent) is a commissioned notary who has additional training in mortgage loan documents and real estate transactions. Their work goes beyond basic notarizations to include:
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presenting loan packages during real estate closings
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ensuring every signature, initial, and date is properly completed
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guiding signers through complex documents like deeds of trust, promissory notes, closing disclosures, and refinance agreements
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returning executed documents quickly and accurately to lenders, escrow, or title companies
Although LSAs cannot provide legal or financial advice, their familiarity with loan packages makes them a vital link between the borrower and the lending institution.
Key Differences to Keep in Mind
Authority: Every Loan Signing Agent is a Notary Public first. You cannot become an LSA without first being commissioned as a notary.
Scope of Work: Notaries perform general notarial acts; LSAs focus specifically on loan and mortgage documents.
Clients: Notaries work with the general public, businesses, and government offices. LSAs primarily serve title companies, escrow officers, lenders, and signing services in the mortgage industry.
Why It Matters
Becoming a Notary Public is the first step. It provides the legal authority and credibility to perform notarizations.
Adding Loan Signing Agent specialization builds on that foundation, opening the door to higher-paying assignments in the real estate sector. For many notaries, this is where the career shifts from part-time side work to a profitable business.
Learn more from the National Notary Association: What is a Notary Signing Agent?
Let's Talk (Honestly) About How Much You Can Earn as a Notary Public & Loan Signing Agent in
Albany, New York
When people search “How much can a notary make?” or “Is becoming a Loan Signing Agent worth it?” they often land on bold claims and flashy numbers on social media. The reality, however, is more nuanced—and it’s important to approach this career with accurate expectations.
Be Careful Who You Follow Online
Not everyone on social media gives the full story. To put things in perspective, here’s the truth:
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Only about 1% of notaries and loan signing agents reach “six-figure” or top-tier incomes.
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The majority earn supplemental income, with a smaller portion building part-time or moderate full-time careers.
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This breakdown is best seen in the income distribution chart: most fall into the “supplemental income” group, with very few reaching the top slice.
Meanwhile, the fee comparison bar chart makes it clear: loan signings simply offer more per assignment. That’s why many notaries branch into loan signings if they want to grow their earnings.
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A Notary Public earns state-regulated fees, typically ranging from $5 to $15 per notarization depending on state law
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A Loan Signing Agent, by contrast, negotiates per-assignment fees, often $50 to $200+ per signing, since real estate closings involve larger document packages and tighter deadlines
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The good news? There are many ways to expand your income as a notary beyond standard notarizations and loan signings.
Successful notaries often diversify into niche services such as:
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Jail and detention notarizations
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Hospital and healthcare facility notarizations
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Apostille facilitation
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I-9 verifications
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Permit running
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Translation coordination
Each of these creates new revenue streams and sets you apart from other notaries in your area.
Where Real Opportunity Lies
Learn more from the National Notary Association: Notary Business Basics
Learn more from the National Notary Association: Notary Signing Agent Overview
Learn more from the National Notary Association: How Much Can Notaries Charge?
Learn more from Notary Stars:
How Notaries Can Market to Hospitals & Jails
Learn more from Notary Stars:
Additional Income for Notaries
Here Are the Basic Steps You Should Take to Become a Notary Public in
Albany, New York
How to Become a Notary Public in New York
Applicants who want to become a New York Notary Public must take the following steps:
Meet the state's eligibility requirements.
Learn New York's Notary Public License Law.
Pass the one-hour NYS Notary Public Examination.
Get your oath of office form notarized.
Complete the application online.
Buy your Notary journal.
Here Are More Details About Becoming a Notary Public in
Albany, New York
How to Become a Notary Public in New York
Applicants who want to become a New York Notary Public must take the following steps:
Meet the state's eligibility requirements.
Learn New York's Notary Public License Law.
Pass the one-hour NYS Notary Public Examination.
Get your oath of office form notarized.
Complete the application online.
Buy your Notary journal.
If you are seeking to become a Notary Loan Signing Agent in New York it is strongly advised that you take additional training beyond the National Notary Association.
The National Notary Association helps to prepare Notaries on a very basic level. However, companies like Notary2Pro, NotaryStars, and NotaryAcademy are all very well poised to help Notary Loan Signing Agents learn the meaning of Loan Documents, How to Present Loan Documents, What You as a Notary Can Say About Loan Documents, and How to Execute Loan Documents. Ideally, the highest paid Loan Signing Agents will have taken all three of these courses and more.
Companies like Notary Stars can also help point you in the direction of additional reputable trainers within the industry who can also show you how to perform additional services like Permit Running, Apostille, Document Translations, Estate Planning, and more! These are additional sources of revenue that the National Notary Association does not cover.
About the New York Notary Process
The commission term for a New York Notary is four years. Below is more information on applying for a Notary Public commission in the Empire State.
Cost to Become a Notary in New York
The cost to become a Notary in New York ranges between $107 - $132. The total cost varies based on where you purchase your Notary journal.
Commission Processing Time
It takes about 3-5 business days for NY Notary Public commission applications to be processed, according to the Division of Licensing Services.
New York Notary Requirements
Wondering how you can qualify to become an NY Notary? Read on below.
Eligibility
Every New York Notary applicant must meet the following requirements. You must:
Be at least 18 years old
Be a person of good moral character
Reside within the state or maintain a business office in New York
Have the equivalent of a "common school education"
Not be convicted of a crime unless the Secretary of State finds that the crime committed doesn't bar you from commission
Who is ineligible to become an NY Notary?
The Secretary of State may determine whether or not an applicant should be disqualified for a crime.
Sheriffs cannot be Notaries because they are barred from holding another public office.
Notary Training
New York Notaries are not required to take any specific training courses. It's your responsibility to understand the Notary Public License Law, which is available on the website of the New York Department of State's Division of Licensing Services.
Exam
Applicants for a New York Notary commission must pass a one-hour, closed-book, proctored exam. The multiple-choice test is based on the Notary Public License Law.
Before taking the exam, review test center policies.
On the day of the exam, bring your ID, two no. 2 pencils and the $15 fee to the test site.
After taking the exam, you’ll receive your test pass slip in the mail. This slip must be submitted with your application.
Current members of the New York State Bar Association or court clerks of the Unified Court System who have passed the civil service promotional exam are exempt.
Where can I take the Notary Public exam in NY?
Exams are administered at various locations throughout the state and are provided regularly in the following cities: Albany, Binghamton, Buffalo, Franklin Square, Hauppauge, New York City, Plattsburgh, Rochester, Syracuse and Utica.
Examination schedules are posted on the Department's website in January and July of each year. Seating is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
For testing schedules and complete instructions, visit the Division of Licensing Services.
Oath of Office
Print the oath of office form and take it to a current NY Notary to complete this step.
Application
Create an NY Business Express account to complete and submit your Notary Public application. Include your notarized oath form, the $60 application fee and your exam pass slip.
You may check your application status in your NY Business Express account.
Notary Supplies
New York Notaries are required to record all notarial acts they perform in a journal.
While New York doesn't require a stamp, using a Notary stamp is considered an industry best practice.
For a seal, you may include the following information:
Your name as it appears on your commission
The words "Notary Public for the State of New York"
The county in which you qualified for a commission (optional)
Your commission expiration date (optional)
The words "Certificate filed…County" (optional)
All of this information must be either printed, typewritten or stamped below your signature on every notarial certificate.
Which state government office handles Notaries?
The New York Department of State, Division of Licensing Services, located in Albany, NY, handles Notaries.
Department of State
One Commerce Plaza, 99 Washington Ave
Albany, NY 12231-0001
When the Secretary of State commissions you as a Notary Public, your commission, original oath and signature are forwarded to the appropriate county clerk so the public can access and verify your commission.
If I live in another state but work in New York, may I become a New York Notary?
Yes. If you have an office or a place of business in the state, you may become commissioned as a Notary in New York.
What is a surety bond? Do I need one?
A surety bond is a promise to pay anyone harmed if you fail to honestly, diligently and faithfully discharge your responsibilities as a Notary. New York does not require a surety bond.
You may choose to get an optional errors and omissions (E&O) insurance policy to protect yourself from legal liability if your notarial acts are ever called into question.
Who can I notarize for?
You may notarize for any member of the public who presents acceptable identification, excluding yourself. You're prohibited from notarizing a document in which you are a party to or directly and pecuniarily interested.
Although the law doesn't specifically prohibit Notaries from notarizing documents for family members, it could be challenged if the Notary is found to have an interest in, or benefit from, the transaction.
How much can New York Notaries charge for their services?
NY Notaries may charge a maximum fee of $2 for most notarial acts.
What happens if I move or change my name?
If you change your address or name, you must notify the Division of Licensing Services of the change by submitting a form and $10 fee. The Division will correct your public record to reflect your new address and/or name.
For name changes, you must provide proof of the change, such as:
Court order
Marriage certificate
Driver's license
Non-driver's ID card
Valid passport
Immigration documents
Name changes resulting from a change in marital status don’t require a fee.
When renewing your commission, use your new name to avoid any confusion.
How do I renew my New York Notary commission?
To renew your commission, submit your application and fees to the Department of State. You may begin the renewal process as early as 90 days before your current commission expires.
What do I need to know about remote online notarization in New York?
Effective January 31, 2023, remote online notarization for New York Notaries is allowed. Notaries with a current NY commission may perform a remote notarization for signers located within or outside of New York as long as the Notaries themselves are physically present within the state during the notarial act.
This step-by-step guide has everything you need to know about becoming a remote online Notary in New York.
Loan Signing Agent Training That Will Help You Start and Flourish in Your Career in
Albany, New York
Once you are commissioned as a Notary Public, the next step for many professionals is pursuing additional training to become a Loan Signing Agent (LSA). Specialized education is what sets apart those who simply hold a commission from those who build a thriving notarial business.
Unlimited Ink Notary is proud to be a sister company to Notary Stars, a nationally recognized training platform that equips notaries with the knowledge and confidence to succeed. Alongside other trusted educators like Notary2Pro and My Notary Academy, these organizations provide structured, reputable paths into the loan signing industry.
Why Training Matters
While the fundamentals of being a Notary Public are state-specific, loan signing work requires an additional layer of expertise. Lenders, escrow officers, and title companies want to work with notaries who understand their documents, avoid costly mistakes, and represent their brand professionally. That’s where quality training becomes invaluable.
Here’s a glimpse at what these programs offer:
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Notary Stars – Known for its comprehensive library of over 150+ hours of video training, live classes, and community support, Notary Stars teaches every major loan product, best practices for notarial work, and provides marketing strategies to help notaries grow. It’s not just a course—it’s an ongoing resource hub with mentorship opportunities.
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Notary2Pro – Founded by industry veteran Carol Ray, Notary2Pro is respected for its hands-on, personalized training. Its “Elite” program bundles essential and advanced courses, plus reverse mortgage specialization, giving students a strong foundation and continuing edge in the market.
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My Notary Academy – This training company offers structured, easy-to-follow modules designed to help new notaries understand the loan signing process step by step. Its focus on practical exercises and real-world application helps build confidence quickly for those new to the industry.
Meet the Instructors of Notary Stars & Connect with Them on Your Journey in
Albany, New York
Unlimited Ink Notary is proud to be a sister company to Notary Stars, where experienced professionals don’t just teach—they mentor, share real-world insight, and guide you through the complexities of building a notary signing career.
RON Trainer & RON Expert
Amy is a multi-state commissioned notary and RON (Remote Online Notarization) expert.
At Notary Stars, she trains notaries in digital notarization, apostilles, and international document work—helping them expand their services and adapt to the evolving notarial landscape.
New Notary Liaison
Kirsten is a New Notary Liaison and instructor at Notary Stars, guiding notaries as they take their first steps in the profession.
Drawing from years of notarial, customer service, and teaching experience, she focuses on helping notaries master the basics while building confidence and long-term business strategies.
Lead Instructor
Beth brings more than 20 years of experience in Title, Escrow, and as a Notary Signing Agent.
At Notary Stars, she develops and teaches courses ranging from foundational signing practices to specialized topics like reverse mortgages, equipping notaries with advanced knowledge to excel in the field.
Founder of Notary Stars
Ronnie is the founder of Unlimited Ink Notary, Notary Stars, and Remote Online Notary Network, and has over 15 years of experience as a Notary Signing Agent.
He specializes in Notary Business Marketing, helping notaries build strong local reputations and professional online presence.
Through resources like his Notary Business Wix Template, he equips notaries to secure valuable digital real estate and stand out in competitive markets.
Bilingual (Spanish) Instructor
Manuel is a bilingual instructor who brings both expertise and inclusivity to Notary Stars training.
By teaching in English and Spanish, he ensures notaries serving diverse communities are equipped to handle signings with professionalism and cultural awareness.
Why This Matters
These aren’t anonymous voices behind a course—they’re your mentors. With decades of combined real-world experience, they equip you with not just the “what,” but also the “how”:
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Learn how to avoid common signing mistakes.
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Leverage niching strategies like reverse mortgages or online notarizations.
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Get ongoing support, real examples, and up-to-date industry know-how.
Here Are Some Solid Suggestions of Supplies You'll Need as a Loan Signing Agent in
Albany, New York
These are more than “nice-to-haves”—they are the backbone of efficiency and professionalism. Clients notice when documents are cleanly printed, neatly scanned, and properly documented. On the flip side, being unprepared with the wrong tools can cause errors, delays, and even loss of assignments. But supplies don’t end here. As you grow, you’ll discover specialized tools that can save you time, protect your liability, and enhance your notarial practice.
Visit the Notary Stars Notary Supplies page to explore the full toolkit we recommend for Loan Signing Agents and how the right supplies can set you apart from the competition.
Many loan packages must be printed on both letter and legal-sized paper. A dual-tray laser printer helps you produce professional, accurate documents without wasted time.
A portable, high-speed scanner is critical for returning scanbacks to title companies quickly. Delays or poor-quality scans can cost you repeat business.
Even in states where a journal is optional, maintaining one protects you legally and demonstrates professionalism.
Always carry plenty of legal- and letter-sized paper, along with black and blue pens to meet client and lender requirements.
Extra acknowledgment and jurat forms ensure you can correct errors on the spot without delaying a signing.
Once you are commissioned as a Notary Public, the next step for many professionals is pursuing additional training to become a Loan Signing Agent (LSA). Specialized education is what sets apart those who simply hold a commission from those who build a thriving notarial business.
Unlimited Ink Notary is proud to be a sister company to Notary Stars, a nationally recognized training platform that equips notaries with the knowledge and confidence to succeed. Alongside other trusted educators like Notary2Pro and My Notary Academy, these organizations provide structured, reputable paths into the loan signing industry.
As Us a Question About Becoming a Notary Public & Loan Signing Agent in
Albany, New York
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