Becoming a notary is the easy part. Running it like a real business — and not leaving money on the table — is where most beginners stumble. The good news is that the common mistakes are completely avoidable once you know what to watch for. Here are five that quietly cost new notaries time, money, and repeat clients.
Mistake #1: Undercharging (or not charging travel)
New notaries often feel awkward about fees and end up charging too little — or forgetting to charge a travel fee entirely. Here's the thing: the notarization fee is often capped by your state, but your travel fee is where mobile notaries actually make their money. Driving 30 minutes each way for a single signature at the state-capped fee isn't a business; it's a favor. Know your numbers and charge for your time.
Mistake #2: Skipping or sloppy journal entries
Your notary journal isn't busywork — it's your legal protection. If a signing is ever questioned, that journal is the record that defends you. Beginners who skip entries, or fill them in carelessly, leave themselves exposed. Make a complete journal entry for every single act, every time, no exceptions. It takes 60 seconds and can save you from a legal nightmare.
Mistake #3: Not verifying ID properly
The entire point of notarization is verifying that signers are who they say they are. Rushing this step — accepting an expired ID, or not looking closely — defeats the purpose and puts your commission at risk. Take the extra few seconds to check identification carefully every time. It's the core of the job.
Mistake #4: Being invisible to clients
Plenty of new notaries get commissioned, buy their stamp, and then… wait for the phone to ring. It doesn't. If title companies, real estate agents, hospitals, and local families can't find you, you don't have a business. A free Google Business Profile, listings in notary directories, and a few calls to local offices are what actually generate appointments. Marketing isn't optional — it's the job.
Mistake #5: Staying a general notary forever
General notary work pays modestly. The real income is in loan signings — handling the document packages when someone refinances or buys a home. Many beginners don't realize how much more this work pays and never pursue the extra certification. If you're serious about income, becoming a Notary Signing Agent is the single biggest step up.
Set yourself up right from the start
Every one of these mistakes comes down to treating the notary commission as the finish line instead of the starting line. The notaries who thrive treat it like a business from day one — with a fee schedule, marketing, and a plan to grow. Our notary kits are built to get you there fast:
- The 7-Step Notary Starter Kit ($7) covers the fundamentals.
- The Mobile Notary Launch Kit ($27) sets up your business properly.
- The Mobile Notary Business Kit: Pro Guide + Templates ($47) gives you the templates and lead system to actually get booked.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Always follow your state's notary laws and fee schedules.