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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
Iowa City, Iowa
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
Iowa City, Iowa
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
Iowa City, Iowa
How to Become a Notary Public in Iowa
To become an Iowa Notary Public, complete the following steps:
Make sure you meet all of Iowa's eligibility requirements (see below).
Complete the Application for Appointment as Notary Public. By filling out the form, you are making your oath of office.
Submit the application and $30 processing fee to the Notary Division of the Secretary of State's office.
The Secretary of State will send your Notary commission to you.
Buy your official Notary seal.
Get E&O insurance (optional, but strongly recommended).
Take continuing education or consult Notary experts for guidance (optional, but strongly recommended).
Here Are More Details About Becoming a Notary Public in
Iowa City, Iowa
How to Become a Notary Public in Iowa
To become an Iowa Notary Public, complete the following steps:
Make sure you meet all of Iowa's eligibility requirements (see below).
Complete the Application for Appointment as Notary Public. By filling out the form, you are making your oath of office.
Submit the application and $30 processing fee to the Notary Division of the Secretary of State's office.
The Secretary of State will send your Notary commission to you.
Buy your official Notary seal.
Get E&O insurance (optional, but strongly recommended).
Take continuing education or consult Notary experts for guidance (optional, but strongly recommended).
If you are seeking to become a Notary Loan Signing Agent in Iowa 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.
More Details About the Iowa Notary Process
Here is some more information about applying for a Notary Public commission.
How much does it cost?
There is a $30 fee to apply for a Notary Public commission and a $30 fee to take the state-required training course. Additional costs for Notary tools vary depending on vendors.
The cost of commissioning can differ depending on whether you are a new or renewing Notary. Supply package prices vary among vendors. New Notaries may need more how-to assistance than experienced Notaries. Books, training and live expert assistance are often must-haves for most new Notaries.
Some vendors may package items with additional fees — processing fees for example. Training can be included in package prices for new Notaries, although the quality of education can vary. Some providers offer their own Notary courses while others do not have the on-staff expertise to develop and support educational content. Several vendors offer Notaries live question and answer support, and others are not able to offer such assistance.
How long does it take?
The Iowa Secretary of State recommends allowing four to six weeks for the processing of a Notary Public commission application.
How long does an Iowa Notary commission last?
The term of an Iowa Notary commission is three years for an Iowa resident and one year for a resident of a state bordering Iowa.
Requirements to be a Notary in Iowa
Who can become a Notary?
A Notary Public applicant in Iowa must meet the following requirements:
Be at least 18 years old
Be a citizen or permanent legal resident of the U.S.
Live or work in the state of Iowa, but any out-of-state applicant must live in a state bordering Iowa
Be able to read and write English
Not have been convicted of a felony involving fraud, dishonesty or deceit.
Is there training or an exam required to become an IA Notary?
While taking a Notary training course is not required by law, it is strongly recommended that you read the Handbook for Iowa Notaries Public and take a course of study that helps you learn the ins and outs of what a Notary does and why. If you want to feel confident and knowledgable before your first signing, the NNA offers a course specifically for Iowa Notaries.
What kind of supplies will I need?
Iowa Notaries must have a stamp to notarize documents that is capable of being copied together with the record to which it is affixed or attached. The seal must contain the following information:
Your name as it appears on your commission
The words "Notarial Seal"
The word "Iowa"
The words "Commission Number _______ (number the Secretary of State assigned to you)"
The words "My Commission Expires _______ (date or blank line)"
Other information required by the Secretary of State
If the official stamp has a blank line, you must print the date your term would ordinarily expire on each notarized document.
When shopping for seal stamps, quality and durability can vary greatly among vendors. Ask if stamps carry a lifetime guarantee. Stamps should not bleed during or after use, as this can cause county officials to reject documents due to smudging.
While not required in Iowa, keeping a record of all notarial acts in a Notary journal is strongly recommended. When purchasing a journal, there are features to which you must pay close attention. A journal with tamper-proof sewn construction allows Notaries to identify missing pages in their journals, which becomes extremely helpful if you're ever named in a lawsuit.
Supplies are sold by most vendors in packages, which can sometimes provide savings. However, not all vendor packages are created equal — they can vary greatly in terms of quality and content. If you are a new Notary or renewing your commission, the types and quantity of notarizations can require different tools of the trade.
What is a surety bond and why do I need one?
Iowa Notaries are not required to purchase a surety bond. A surety bond is a financial guarantee that the Notary will fulfill their obligations to notarize in compliance with state laws. This Notary bond specifically protects the public and not the Notary.
Notaries can insure themselves against possible legal costs or damages by getting a separate, optional errors and omissions (E&O) insurance policy. Though not required by law, an E&O policy covers a Notary's legal fees and damages up to the amount of the policy.
Which state government office handles Notaries?
The Iowa Office of Secretary of State, Notary Division, located in Des Moines, IA, commissions Notaries Public.
May I become an Iowa Notary if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Yes. You do not have to be a U.S. citizen to become an Iowa Notary Public. You must, however, be a permanent legal resident of the United States.
Where will I be able to notarize?
An Iowa Notary can perform notarial acts anywhere within the state's borders.
Who can I notarize for?
Any member of the public, as long as the request meets all statutory requirements for notarization, excluding yourself and your spouse. You're prohibited from performing a notarial act in which you or your spouse have a direct beneficial interest.
How much can IA Notaries charge for their services?
Iowa Secretary of State allows Notaries to charge a reasonable fee per notarization. As a best practice, inform signers of your fees in advance to avoid any confusion.
What should I do if I move or change my name?
If you move or change your name, you can submit a Notary Public Change/Amendment to Application form to the Secretary of State. If you change your name, you have the option to use your new one or continue using the one on your commission until your Notary term ends. It's recommended to update your name immediately with the SOS in case a third-party requests certification of your commission.
What is the process to renew my commission as an Iowa Notary?
The process is the same. Approximately two months before your commission expires, the Secretary of State will send you a renewal form.
What do I need to know about remote online notarization in Iowa?
On July 1, 2020, Iowa authorized remote online notarizations (RON). Notaries must hold an existing commission as a Notary Public before they can apply. Once you're commissioned, follow the steps in this guide to become an IA remote Notary.
If you're not quite ready yet, we have additional resources where you can learn what a Notary is, what they do and why you should become a commissioned Notary.
Loan Signing Agent Training That Will Help You Start and Flourish in Your Career in
Iowa City, Iowa
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
Iowa City, Iowa
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
Iowa City, Iowa
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
Iowa City, Iowa
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