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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
Peoria, Arizona
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
Peoria, Arizona
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
Peoria, Arizona
How to Become a Notary Public in Arizona
To become an Arizona Notary, you must complete the following steps:
Meet the state's eligibility requirements.
Complete the application online and print it out.
Get a $5,000 surety bond.
Submit your signed application, notarized bond form and filing fee.
Buy your Notary seal, journal and fee schedule.
Here Are More Details About Becoming a Notary Public in
Peoria, Arizona
How to Become a Notary Public in Arizona
To become an Arizona Notary, you must complete the following steps:
Meet the state's eligibility requirements.
Complete the application online and print it out.
Get a $5,000 surety bond.
Submit your signed application, notarized bond form and filing fee.
Buy your Notary seal, journal and fee schedule.
If you are seeking to become a Notary Loan Signing Agent in Arizona 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 Arizona Notary Process
An Arizona Notary Public commission lasts for four years. To continue notarizing documents, Notaries must renew their commission.
Cost to Become a Notary in AZ
The cost to become a Notary in Arizona ranges between $155 - $180, depending on where you purchase your Notary supplies.
Commission Processing Time
It can take up to four weeks to get your Notary Public commission in Arizona once you submit your application.
The Arizona Secretary of State offers an expedited service of one to two business days for an additional $25. Write "EXPEDITE" on your envelope to have your application processed promptly.
Any application requiring further review, including a felony conviction, professional license action or past Notary complaint, cannot be expedited.
Arizona Notary Public Requirements
Eligibility
A Notary Public applicant in Arizona must meet the following requirements:
Be at least 18 years old
Be able to read and write English
Be a citizen or legal permanent resident of the U.S.
Be a legal resident of Arizona
Not be convicted of a felony unless civil rights have been restored
Application
Complete the application and print it out. Submit the original notarized bond form and filing fee. Tip: When you receive your commission certificate, check your name, county of residence and commission dates to ensure your stamp is made accurately.
Notary Supplies
Notaries in Arizona are required to use a Notary seal stamp, journal and fee schedule. You may not possess more than one official Notary seal at a time (ARS 41-321.B).
The seal can be in any shape no larger than 2.5" x 1.5". Round seals must be no larger than 1.5" in diameter. The following information should be on the seal:
Your name as it appears on your commission
The words "Notary Public"
The name of the county in which you're commissioned
The Great Seal of the State of Arizona
Your commission ID number
Your commission expiration date
In addition to a Notary seal, you must get a Notary journal. The journal must be in a paper format and list the notarial acts in chronological order.
Surety Bond
Arizona Notaries must purchase a $5,000 surety bond to protect signers against financial damages resulting from the Notary's negligence or misconduct.
Which state government office handles Notaries in Arizona?
The Arizona Office of the Secretary of State, Notary Section, located in Phoenix, AZ, holds all records of Notaries Public.
Secretary of State
1700 W. Washington Street, Fl. 7
Phoenix, AZ 85007-2808
May I become an Arizona Notary if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Yes. You do not have to be a U.S. citizen to become an Arizona Notary Public. You must, however, be a legal resident of the state and meet all other application requirements.
Is training required for AZ Notary applicants?
Arizona does not require training prior to getting a Notary commission. The state offers a Notary Public Reference Manual on its website for guidance.
Do I need to take an Arizona Notary exam?
There is no state-proctored exam required to become a Notary Public in Arizona.
Is E&O insurance required?
Notaries can insure themselves against possible legal costs or damages by purchasing 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.
Where will I be able to notarize?
An Arizona 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. Notaries are prohibited from notarizing their own signatures and for anyone related to them by marriage or adoption.
In addition, you may not notarize a document in which you will receive a direct material benefit.
How much can AZ Notaries charge per notarial act?
In Arizona, Notaries can charge up to $10 per Notary signature. Notaries are not required to charge a fee, but those who choose to do so must use that same fee for each notarization.
You may charge a travel mileage fee if you travel a distance to perform a notarization. The Department of Administration determines the mileage fee through its General Accounting Office.
If you charge a fee for your services, you must post your fee schedule in a specific format and in a conspicuous location.
What happens if I change my address or name?
You must notify the Secretary of State of any address or name change by submitting a completed Notary Public Address/Name Change Notification form or reporting the change on the AZ SOS website. Failure to do so may result in a $25 civil penalty.
To avoid paying the penalty for an address change, update all of your addresses in the form and notify the Secretary within 30 days of the change. For a name change, include legal documentation (marriage license, divorce decree, etc.) with your form.
What is the process for renewing my commission as an Arizona Notary?
The process to renew an Arizona Notary Public commission is the same as the new Notary application process.
You must continue to meet the qualifications listed above. The earliest you may renew your commission is 60 days before your current commission expires.
How do I become an electronic Notary in Arizona?
Electronic notarizations differ from traditional notarizations in that they involve digital documents and electronic signatures. The notarial act is still performed in person with the signer personally appearing before the Notary.
To become an eNotary in Arizona, you must first hold an active commission as a traditional Notary Public. Then, you’re required to read the Electronic Notary Rules. Next, contract with a technology provider from the state’s list of approved vendors. Complete the application and indicate the vendor you intend to use.
How can I become a remote online Notary in Arizona?
To apply for your remote authorization, you must first have a traditional Notary Public commission. This step-by-step guide will help you become an AZ remote Notary.
Loan Signing Agent Training That Will Help You Start and Flourish in Your Career in
Peoria, Arizona
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
Peoria, Arizona
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
Peoria, Arizona
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
Peoria, Arizona
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