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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
Springfield, Illinois
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
Springfield, Illinois
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
Springfield, Illinois
How to Become a Notary Public in Illinois
Illinois residents applying for a Notary Public commission must use the Secretary of State’s online application. More information is available on the Secretary of State’s website.
To become a Notary in Illinois, you must complete the following steps:
Meet the eligibility requirements.
Read the Illinois Notary Public Handbook and Illinois Notary laws.
Take an approved Notary study course and pass the exam.
Buy a $5,000* surety bond.
Complete the Notary Public Application on the Secretary of State website.
Receive your commission from the state.
Buy your Notary seal, journal and other supplies.
*A $30,000 bond is required if you will provide remote notarization services.
Here Are More Details About Becoming a Notary Public in
Springfield, Illinois
How to Become a Notary Public in Illinois
Illinois residents applying for a Notary Public commission must use the Secretary of State’s online application. More information is available on the Secretary of State’s website.
To become a Notary in Illinois, you must complete the following steps:
Meet the eligibility requirements.
Read the Illinois Notary Public Handbook and Illinois Notary laws.
Take an approved Notary study course and pass the exam.
Buy a $5,000* surety bond.
Complete the Notary Public Application on the Secretary of State website.
Receive your commission from the state.
Buy your Notary seal, journal and other supplies.
*A $30,000 bond is required if you will provide remote notarization services.
If you are seeking to become a Notary Loan Signing Agent in Illinois 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 Illinois Notary Process
The term of an Illinois Notary Public commission is four years for Illinois residents, after which you’ll need to renew to continue notarizing documents.
Non-residents from Iowa, Kentucky, Missouri, Indiana and Wisconsin who have worked or maintained a business in Illinois for at least 30 days may apply for a one-year commission.
Cost to Become an Illinois Notary
The cost to become an IL Notary ranges between $178 and $203, depending on the education provider you choose for the Notary class and the companies from which you purchase the surety bond, seal, and journal.
Commission Processing Time
It can take five to eight weeks for the state to issue your Notary commission.
Illinois Notary Public Requirements
Wondering if you have what it takes to become a Notary in the Prairie State? Read on below.
Eligibility
There are several qualifications for a person to become an Illinois Notary. You must:
Be at least 18 years old
Be a citizen of or lawful permanent resident in the U.S.
Live or work in Illinois for a minimum of 30 days prior to applying
Be able to read and write in English
Not be convicted of a felony
Not have a previous Notary commission revoked
You must also read the Illinois Notary Public Handbook and Illinois Notary laws.
Notary Training
The Secretary of State requires applicants to take a three-hour Notary training course and submit the proof of completion certificate with their application.
Exam
In addition to the Notary training class, you must pass a 50-question exam with a score of at least 85%.
Surety Bond
Notaries in Illinois are required by law to purchase a $5,000 four-year surety bond from a company qualified to write bonds in the state. The surety company must complete the bond form.
If you’re interested in performing remote notarizations by means of audio-video communication or if you will notarize electronic documents for remotely located signers, you’ll need to purchase a $30,000 four-year surety bond.
Application
Illinois residents applying for a commission as a Notary Public must apply using the Secretary of State’s online application.
Upload a copy of your course certificate of completion and completed and signed Notary Public Bond form to your online application. Pay the $15 application fee. If you're applying simultaneously as a Notary Public and electronic Notary, the application fee is $40.
Non-resident applicants and those who qualify for a hardship exemption must complete a paper application and submit it to the Secretary of State’s office.
Notary Supplies
In Illinois, Notaries are required to use a Notary seal stamp and journal.
The seal should be in a rectangular form no larger than 1" in height by 2.5" in length with a serrated or milled-edge border. The following information should be within the border:
The words "Official Seal"
Your name as it appears on your commission
The words "Notary Public, State of Illinois"
The words "Commission No. _________(your number)"
The words "My Commission Expires _______ (date)"
A Notary journal or record book is required in which you must record all notarial acts performed. The journal may be paper or electronic, and more than one journal may be used.
Which state government office handles Notaries?
The Illinois Secretary of State, located in Springfield, IL, issues Notary Public commissions.
Secretary of State Index Departmen
111 E. Monroe Street
Springfield, IL 62756
Where can I get additional training on what IL Notaries do?
You can find several Notary Public training options online, including the NNA's Notary Essentials course. Online training can be convenient and can do an excellent job of preparing you for your new responsibilities.
It's important to thoroughly review any company you plan to work with, as some have courses developed by on-staff Notary experts while others simply pull information from other, more authoritative, sources.
How can I protect myself?
Since a surety bond does not protect the Notary, many Notaries choose to purchase optional errors and omissions (E&O) insurance policies to protect themselves from legal expenses. E&O insurance is not a requirement in Illinois.
Where will I be able to notarize?
You will be able to notarize anywhere in the state of Illinois.
Who can I notarize for?
You can notarize documents for anyone who presents acceptable identification, excluding yourself. While Illinois law doesn't specifically prohibit notarizing for family members, you may not notarize:
Documents you are named in or would benefit from
For someone you know is adjudged mentally ill or for a blind person unless you read the document to them
For people who don't understand English unless the document being notarized is translated into a language they do understand
What fees can Illinois Notaries charge per notarization?
Illinois sets the maximum fee Notaries may charge per notarial act at $5.
What happens if I move or change my name?
If you change your address to a new place within the same county or if your employer changes, complete the Notary Public Change of Address or Employer form and submit it to the Secretary of State within 30 days.
If you change your name or the county in which you reside, you'll need to apply for a new commission to continue serving as a Notary Public.
What are the most common errors made by Notaries?
Failing to properly identify a person, failing to administer an oath or affirmation, and failing to affix the Notary seal are the most common oversights made by both new and experienced Notaries.
How do I renew my Notary commission in Illinois?
The Secretary of State’s office will notify you to renew approximately 60 days before your commission expires. To renew your Illinois Notary Public commission, follow the same steps as if you’re applying for the first time.
Once you receive your new commission, buy a Notary seal with your new commission expiration date.
Starting on January 1, 2025, the following individuals are exempt from taking the course and exam as part of the renewal process: Licensed attorneys, employees of licensed attorneys, judges and court employees.
Instead of uploading their proof of course completion in the online application, they will need to upload this exemption form.
How can I become an electronic Notary?
You may apply simultaneously as a Notary Public and electronic Notary Public, or you may add electronic Notary to an existing Notary Public commission. You’ll need to purchase an eSeal and digital certificate before notarizing electronic documents.
What do I need to know about remote notarization in Illinois?
An Illinois Notary with an active commission may perform remote notarization on paper documents. A Notary who is also an electronic Notary may notarize electronic documents remotely.
Any Illinois Notary who notarizes for remotely located signers must have a $30,000 bond. Read our guide about remote notarization in Illinois for detailed information.
Loan Signing Agent Training That Will Help You Start and Flourish in Your Career in
Springfield, Illinois
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
Springfield, Illinois
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
Springfield, Illinois
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
Springfield, Illinois
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