Content Overview
The Pennsylvania Public Application form is a crucial document for individuals seeking to become or renew their status as a Notary Public in the state. This form serves multiple purposes, primarily facilitating the application process for both new appointments and reappointments. Applicants are required to provide personal information, including their full name, date of birth, and contact details. Additionally, the form mandates the disclosure of any prior criminal history and previous notary commission details, ensuring transparency and compliance with state regulations. A fee of $105 covers the application process, which includes the Pennsylvania Department of State Notary Public Application Fee, a four-year notary public bond premium, and miscellaneous expenses. To qualify, applicants must complete a state-approved three-hour notary education course if they did not hold an active commission as of July 1, 2003. The application must be submitted at least two months before the expiration of an existing commission to ensure timely processing. Various submission methods are available, including email, fax, and mail, allowing for flexibility in how applicants return their completed forms. It is essential to complete the application accurately, as any omissions or errors can lead to delays in processing.
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*****IMPORTANT*****
Although we check your application for correctness, it is your responsibility to make sure the application is
completed accurately before returning it to us for processing.
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PHI LADELPHI A, PA 19103-1491
215-563-8190
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The following application should be completed and returned to our office with payment in the
amount of $105.00 to NOTARIES EQUIPMENT COMPANY which will cover the following fees:
• PA Department of State Notary Public Application Fee………………………….…$40.00
• 4-Year Notary Public Bond Premium………………………………..……...….….….$50.00
• Services and Miscellaneous Expenses……………………………………………….$15.00
You are welcome to return the application and fee to our office by Email, Fax or Mail:
EMAIL:
[email protected] FAX: 215-977-9386 MAIL: NOTARIES EQUIPMENT COMPANY
888-977-9386 2021 ARCH STREET
PHILADELPHIA, PA 19103
If you did not have an active Commission on July 1, 2003, the Pennsylvania Notary Public Law requires
you to complete a 3-hour State approved Notary Public Education course before your Commission can be
renewed. Our seminar schedule is online for your reference. You may visit our website, listed below,
to complete the course online.
It is important that you do not delay. Your application must be submitted at least two months prior to the
expiration of your current Commission for a timely renewal.
If there is any information or assistance desired at any time, please do not hesitate to call us at the above
number.
NO MEMBERSHIP FEES • NO DUES • ALWAYS THERE WHEN YOU NEED US
Nam e on Com m ission: ______________________________________ Exp. Date: ___________
Phone Num ber: ( )
______________ Em ail: ______________________________________
Applica tion Fe es $ 1 0 5 .0 0 Course & Applica t ion $ 1 6 4 .0 0
( St at e Fee, Bond Prem ium & Se rvice ) ( Course, St at e Fee , Bond Pr em ium & Se rvice )
Type of Pa ym e nt:
Che ck Visa M ast erCa rd Discove r
Cardholder’s N am e: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
(
Sa m e a s above)
Card N um ber :
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Exp D at e:_ _ _ / _ _ _
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania – Department of State
Bureau of Commissions, Elections and Legislation
Division of Commissions, Legislation and Notaries
210 North Office Building
Harrisburg, PA 17120
Tel: (717) 787-5280 Web: http://www.dos.state.pa.us/notaries
NOTARY PUBLIC APPLICATION
(Revised 11/1/2014 and
effective 1/5/2015)
PRINT OR TYPE CLEARLY. FILL OUT APPLICATION COMPLETELY. Do not leave any blanks.
Use “none” or “N/A” if applicable. An incomplete application will delay your appointment.
FEE: $40 – make check or money order payable to: COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA.
CHECK ONE: New Appointment
Reappointment
(have been a notary in Pennsylvania before)
PART I: Applicant Information (NOTE: Employer/Business contact information will be public record)
First Name
Middle Name or Initial (if used)
Last Name
Suffix (if applicable)
Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
Social Security Number (xxx-xx-xxxx)
Email Address (Optional)
Name of Employer/Business where Notary Commission will be used (Do not leave blank. If not applicable, please indicate.)
Employer/Business Street Address (P.O. Box alone is insufficient)
City
State
Zip Code
Employer/Business Telephone (include area code)
Municipality (city/borough/township)
County
Home Street Address (P.O. Box alone is insufficient)
City
State
Zip Code
Home Telephone (include area code)
Municipality (city/borough/township)
County
Part II: Education, Criminal History, Other Notary Commission History (Check or mark appropriate boxes)
YES (√)
NO (√)
I am a notary applicant for initial appointment or reappointment and I have completed a pre-approved three-hour notary public
education course within the six-month period immediately preceding this application (unless permanently exempted). Attach a copy
of your course completion certificate and retain your original. Lack of proof of education will result in application rejection.
Have you ever been convicted of or entered a plea of guilty or nolo contendere to a felony or lesser offense preceding the date of this
application? If yes, attach full details (name of court, plea or conviction, sentence and length of probation) and appropriate supporting
documents with a signed and dated personal explanation.
Have you ever resigned a notary commission or had a notary commission suspended, revoked or otherwise disciplined by the
Commonwealth or any other state/jurisdiction preceding the date of this application? If yes, attach full details and appropriate
supporting documents with a signed and dated personal explanation.
Have you ever had any other professional or occupational license suspended, revoked or otherwise disciplined?
If yes, attach full details and appropriate supporting documents with a signed and dated personal explanation.
Note that disclosing your social security number on this application is mandatory for the Department of State to comply with the requirements of the federal Social Security Act pertaining to
child support enforcement, as implemented in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania at 23 Pa. C.S. § 4304.1(a). To enforce domestic child support orders, the Commonwealth’s licensing
boards must provide to the Department of Public Welfare (DPW) information prescribed by DPW about the licensee, including the social security number.
APPLICANT AFFIDAVIT: I am of good moral character and am familiar with the duties and responsibilities of a notary public. I shall furnish additional evidence of these
statements, if requested, which shall be satisfactory to the Secretary of the Commonwealth. To the best of my knowledge and belief, this application contains no
misrepresentations or falsifications, omission or concealments of material fact and the information given by me is true and complete. I understand that any false statement
made is subject to the penalties of 18 Pa. C.S. § 4904 (relating to unsworn falsification to authorities) and may result in the suspension, revocation, or denial of my notary
commission.
_____________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________
Applicant Signature (must match name in Part I) Date
Complete the following if you have ever been a notary in Pennsylvania before:
Notary commission expiration date
Full name on previous commission
Notary commission ID number
Other name used on previous commission
For Official Use Only
To qualify for appointment and commission as a Pennsylvania Notary Public, you:
Must be at least eighteen (18) years of age
Must be a resident of Pennsylvania or be employed within this Commonwealth
Must be of good moral character and familiar with the duties of a notary public
Must have completed a pre-approved three-hour notary education course within the six-month period immediately preceding the application, unless permanently
exempted (see Mandatory Education Requirement and Exemption below)
Must not have been convicted or pled guilty or nolo contendere to a felony or a lesser offense incompatible with the duties of a notary public during the five-year
period preceding the date of application [A felony conviction or a plea of guilty or nolo contendere to a felony OR a commission revocation in the Commonwealth or
any other state within the five years prior to application will result in application rejection.]
The following persons are NOT eligible to hold the office of Notary Public:
Any person holding any judicial office in Pennsylvania, except the office of justice of the peace, magistrate or alderman.
Any member of the Congress of the United States, and any person, whether an officer, a subordinate officer or agent holding any office or appointment of profit or
trust under the legislative, executive, or judicial departments of the government of the United States, to which a salary, fees or perquisites are attached.
Any member of the General Assembly of Pennsylvania.
Notary Public Application Procedures
General Instructions: This application must be TYPEWRITTEN or PRINTED legibly. Applications will be accepted only on the form approved for use by the Secretary of
the Commonwealth. This form may not be altered in any way. Do not send a copy of your completed form, only the original will be accepted. All answers are subject to
investigation and false statements will be deemed as adequate grounds for rejection.
PART I: Use your full name as you would like it to appear on your commission. Nicknames will not be accepted. You may use any of the following: full first name and last
name; full first name, middle initial and last name; full first name, full middle name and last name; first name initial, full middle name and last name. Your signature at the
bottom of the application must match the full name printed in this section. Your commission will be prepared and issued in this name. If applicable, employer business
information may be the same as home address information (i.e., home office).
PART II: Answer all questions. Where “yes” is checked, supply full details and appropriate supporting documents with a signed and dated personal explanation.
Completed applications for reappointment must be filed in this office AT LEAST TWO TO THREE MONTHS prior to the expiration of the current commission. Renewal
applicants should allow AT LEAST ONE MONTH for processing after submitting a completed renewal application to the Department of State.
New appointees should allow AT LEAST FOUR TO SIX WEEKS for processing after submitting a completed application to the Department of State. If notice of
appointment is not received within this time, inquiry should be sent to the address on the front of the application.
Filing Fee: Each application must be accompanied by a check or money order for $40.00, made payable to “Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,” and mailed to 210 North
Office Building, Harrisburg, PA 17120. The fee is non-refundable. Please note: the Secretary of the Commonwealth is authorized to revoke the notary public commission
of a notary public who issues a personal insufficient funds check to the order of any State agency or the Commonwealth subject to the right of notice, hearing and
adjudication and right of appeal.
Oath of Office, Bond, Recording: Upon appointment, the Secretary of the Commonwealth will send notice of appointment to the applicant, with further instructions and
an official bond and oath form to be executed by the applicant. These materials will be sent to the applicant’s business address as provided on the application. The
applicant should record the commission, executed bond and oath form in the Recorder of Deeds in the county where their office is located. This must be completed within
FORTY- FIVE (45) DAYS after the date of appointment or the commission becomes null and void. Extensions will not
be given.
All correspondence from the Department of State concerning your notary public application, notice of appointment to office and bond
will be mailed to the employer/business address
you have provided on your application. Your name, employer/business name,
employer/business address, employer/business telephone number and commissioning history will become public information. If you
list your home address, “N/A” or “None” in the employer/business address section of the application, your home address and home
telephone number will become public information.
Mandatory Education Requirement and Exemption
The Notary Public Law, as amended by Act 151 of 2002 (effective July 1, 2003), requires that applicants for both initial appointment and reappointment as a notary
public complete at least three hours of approved notary education within the six months immediately preceding their application for appointment or reappointment.
However, any applicant for reappointment who was appointed on or before July 1, 2003 and whose notary commission was in effect on July 1, 2003, is
permanently exempted or “grandfathered” from the education requirement. In other words, all notaries public who held active commissions
on July 1, 2003 are not
required to complete approved notary education upon their reappointment.
Excluded from the “grandfather clause” ruling are those notaries who
: 1) received a letter of appointment or reappointment prior to July 1, 2003, but failed to obtain a
bond and have the bond, the commission and oath recorded within the allotted 45 days; 2) resigned their commissions prior to July 1, 2003, and did not seek
reappointment prior to July 1, 2003; 3) permitted their commissions to expire prior to July 1, 2003, and did not seek reappointment prior to July 1, 2003; and 4) had
a commission revoked prior to July 1, 2003, as the result of a disciplinary action taken by the Department.
Form Specifications
| Fact Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | The total fee for the Pennsylvania Notary Public Application is $105. This includes a $40 fee for the application, a $50 bond premium, and $15 for miscellaneous expenses. |
| Payment Methods | Applicants can submit their fees via check, Visa, MasterCard, or Discover. The payment must be made out to Notaries Equipment Company. |
| Submission Methods | Completed applications can be sent by email, fax, or mail. The email address is [email protected], and the fax number is 215-977-9386. |
| Education Requirement | Applicants who did not hold an active commission on July 1, 2003, must complete a 3-hour state-approved notary education course before their commission can be renewed. |
| Application Processing Time | Renewal applications should be submitted at least two months before the current commission expires to ensure timely processing. |
| Governing Law | The Pennsylvania Notary Public Law governs the application process, specifically under 23 Pa. C.S. § 4304.1(a) regarding social security number disclosure. |
| Public Information | Information provided in the application, including name and business details, becomes public record. Home addresses may also be disclosed if not properly indicated. |
| Revocation of Commission | The Secretary of the Commonwealth can revoke a notary's commission if they issue a personal insufficient funds check to any state agency. |
Pennsylvania Public Application: Usage Guidelines
Completing the Pennsylvania Public Application form is essential for obtaining or renewing your notary public commission. Follow the steps below to ensure your application is filled out correctly and submitted on time.
- Begin by printing or typing your full name as you want it to appear on your commission. Ensure it matches your signature.
- Fill in your date of birth in the format mm/dd/yyyy.
- Provide your Social Security Number. This is mandatory for processing your application.
- Complete the contact information for your employer or business. Include the full address, city, state, zip code, and telephone number.
- Fill in your home address details, including street address, city, state, zip code, and home telephone number.
- Indicate whether you are applying for a new appointment or reappointment.
- Answer the questions in Part II regarding your education, criminal history, and previous notary commission history. Mark the appropriate boxes.
- If applicable, attach supporting documents for any "yes" answers in Part II.
- Sign and date the application at the bottom. Ensure your signature matches the name provided at the top.
- Prepare your payment of $40.00, made out to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Include this with your application.
- Submit your completed application and payment by email, fax, or mail to the Notaries Equipment Company.
Once your application is submitted, it will be processed by the Department of State. You will receive further instructions and information regarding your appointment status. Be sure to allow sufficient time for processing to avoid any delays in your commission renewal.
Your Questions, Answered
What is the Pennsylvania Public Application form?
The Pennsylvania Public Application form is a document required for individuals seeking to become a Notary Public in Pennsylvania. This form collects essential information about the applicant, including personal details, criminal history, and education qualifications. Completing this form accurately is crucial for the approval of the application.
What fees are associated with the application?
The total fee for submitting the Pennsylvania Public Application is $105. This amount includes a $40 application fee to the PA Department of State, a $50 premium for a four-year Notary Public bond, and $15 for miscellaneous services. Payment can be made via check, credit card, or money order.
How should I submit my application?
You can submit your completed application and payment through email, fax, or regular mail. The contact details for each method are provided on the application form. Ensure that you send the original application, as copies are not accepted.
What happens if I do not have an active Commission as of July 1, 2003?
If you did not hold an active Commission on July 1, 2003, you are required to complete a three-hour state-approved Notary Public education course before your Commission can be renewed. This course must be completed within six months prior to submitting your application.
How long does it take to process the application?
Processing times vary depending on whether you are a new applicant or seeking reappointment. Generally, new applicants should allow four to six weeks for processing, while renewal applicants should allow at least one month. It is advisable to submit your application at least two to three months before your current Commission expires to ensure timely processing.
What information must I provide on the application?
The application requires detailed personal information, including your full name, date of birth, social security number, contact information, and employment details. You must also disclose any prior notary commission history, including any disciplinary actions or criminal convictions.
What if I have a criminal history?
If you have been convicted of a felony or have entered a plea of guilty to a lesser offense, you must provide full details in your application. This includes the name of the court, the nature of the conviction, and any related documents. Such disclosures are critical, as they can impact your eligibility for a Notary Public Commission.
Is there a mandatory education requirement?
Yes, applicants for initial appointment or reappointment must complete a three-hour approved education course within six months before applying, unless they are permanently exempt. Those who held an active commission as of July 1, 2003, are exempt from this requirement.
What happens after my application is approved?
Upon approval, the Secretary of the Commonwealth will notify you and provide further instructions, including an official bond and oath form. You must execute these documents and record them in the Recorder of Deeds within 45 days to avoid your commission becoming null and void.
Common mistakes
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Incomplete Information: Many applicants leave sections of the form blank. It’s crucial to fill out every part of the application. If something doesn’t apply to you, use "none" or "N/A" to indicate that. Leaving blanks can lead to delays in processing your application.
-
Incorrect Payment Amount: Some people mistakenly send the wrong fee. The application requires a payment of $105.00, which covers various fees. Double-check the amount before sending your payment to avoid unnecessary complications.
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Missing Required Documents: Failing to include necessary documents, like proof of completed education, can result in rejection. Ensure that you attach any required certificates and supporting documents to your application.
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Incorrect Signature: It’s important that your signature matches the name you provided in the application. If there’s a mismatch, it could cause issues with your application being processed. Always double-check your signature before submitting.
Documents used along the form
The Pennsylvania Public Application form is a crucial document for individuals seeking to become notaries public in the state. However, it is not the only document required in this process. Several other forms and documents accompany the application to ensure compliance with state regulations. Understanding these additional requirements can help applicants navigate the process more smoothly.
- Notary Public Education Course Completion Certificate: This certificate proves that the applicant has completed a state-approved three-hour notary education course. It is essential for those who did not hold an active commission on July 1, 2003, as they must complete this course to qualify for their application.
- Notary Public Bond: A bond is a financial guarantee that protects the public from any misconduct by the notary. Applicants must secure a four-year notary public bond and submit proof of this bond along with their application. This bond serves as a safeguard against potential damages caused by the notary's actions.
- Oath of Office: After the application is approved, the applicant must take an oath of office. This oath affirms the applicant's commitment to performing notarial duties faithfully and ethically. The signed oath must be submitted to the appropriate state office as part of the final steps in the commissioning process.
- Criminal History Disclosure Form: This form requires applicants to disclose any past criminal convictions or disciplinary actions related to their notary commission. Providing this information is crucial, as any undisclosed issues may lead to the rejection of the application.
In conclusion, while the Pennsylvania Public Application form is a foundational document for aspiring notaries, it is accompanied by several other important forms and certificates. Each of these documents plays a vital role in ensuring that applicants meet the necessary legal and ethical standards required for notarial service. Being aware of and preparing these additional requirements can facilitate a smoother application process and help applicants achieve their goal of becoming notaries public in Pennsylvania.
Similar forms
- Notary Public Application Form (General): Similar in purpose, this document is used across various states for individuals seeking to become notaries. It typically requires personal information, proof of education, and payment of fees, much like the Pennsylvania form.
- Business License Application: This document is required for individuals starting a business. It collects personal and business information, similar to the notary application, and often requires a fee.
- Professional License Application: Like the notary application, this form is used by professionals (like doctors or lawyers) seeking licensure. It requires proof of education, background checks, and payment of fees.
- Permit Application for Construction: This document is necessary for individuals or companies looking to undertake construction projects. It requires detailed information about the project and typically includes fees, mirroring the notary application process.
- Driver's License Application: This application collects personal information and may require proof of identity and residency, akin to the notary application. Fees are also involved in both processes.
- Voter Registration Form: This form is used to register to vote and requires personal details. It serves a civic purpose similar to the notary application, although it does not typically involve a fee.
- Certificate of Incorporation: This document is filed to establish a corporation. It requires detailed information about the business and its owners, similar to the notary application, and usually involves a filing fee.
- Grant Application: Individuals seeking funding must complete this form, which collects personal and project-related information, much like the notary application, and often requires a fee.
- Tax Registration Form: This form is used by businesses to register for tax purposes. It collects essential information about the business and its owners, similar to the notary application, and may involve fees.
Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the Pennsylvania Public Application form, it is essential to follow certain guidelines to ensure your application is processed smoothly. Below is a list of five things you should and shouldn't do during this process.
- Do ensure all information is accurate. Double-check your personal details, including your name, address, and contact information, to avoid any delays.
- Do complete the application fully. Leave no blanks. If a question does not apply to you, indicate that by writing "none" or "N/A."
- Do submit your application on time. Aim to send your application at least two months before your current commission expires to avoid any lapses.
- Do attach necessary documents. If you have completed a notary education course, include the completion certificate as proof.
- Do pay the required fee. Ensure that you include the $40 application fee with your submission, made out to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
- Don’t forget to sign the application. Your signature must match the name provided in the application to validate your submission.
- Don’t use nicknames. Your name should appear exactly as you want it on your commission; avoid any informal variations.
- Don’t leave out your social security number. This information is mandatory for compliance with federal regulations.
- Don’t submit a copy of the application. Only the original application will be accepted; do not alter the form in any way.
- Don’t ignore the education requirement. If applicable, ensure you complete the three-hour notary education course within the specified timeframe.
By adhering to these guidelines, you can help ensure that your application for a notary public commission in Pennsylvania is processed efficiently and without unnecessary complications.
Misconceptions
Misconceptions can often lead to confusion regarding the Pennsylvania Public Application form. The following list outlines six common misunderstandings and provides clarification for each.
- All applicants must take a notary education course. This is not true for everyone. Applicants who held an active commission on July 1, 2003, are exempt from the education requirement when seeking reappointment.
- Submitting the application is the only requirement. In addition to submitting the application, applicants must also provide proof of completing a three-hour notary public education course, unless exempt.
- The application can be submitted at any time. Applications should be submitted at least two months prior to the expiration of a current commission to ensure timely processing and renewal.
- There are no fees associated with the application. There is a total fee of $105.00 that covers various costs, including a $40 application fee and a $50 bond premium.
- Incomplete applications will still be processed. An incomplete application will delay processing. All sections must be filled out completely, or the application may be rejected.
- Providing a Social Security number is optional. In fact, disclosing a Social Security number is mandatory for compliance with federal child support enforcement requirements.
Understanding these points can help streamline the application process and ensure compliance with Pennsylvania's requirements for notaries public.
Key takeaways
Here are some key takeaways for filling out and using the Pennsylvania Public Application form:
- Complete the application fully: Ensure that every section is filled out. If something does not apply, write "none" or "N/A."
- Submit on time: Your application should be submitted at least two months before your current commission expires for timely renewal.
- Payment required: Include a payment of $105.00. This covers the application fee, bond premium, and miscellaneous expenses.
- Multiple submission methods: You can return your application via email, fax, or mail. Choose the method that works best for you.
- Education requirement: If you did not have an active commission on July 1, 2003, you must complete a three-hour state-approved education course.
- Check your details: Review your application for accuracy before submission. Mistakes can delay your appointment.
- Include necessary documents: Attach any required supporting documents, especially if you answer "yes" to questions about criminal history or previous notary commissions.
- Public information: Be aware that your name and business information will become public record once your application is processed.
- Follow up if needed: If you do not receive notice of your appointment within the specified processing time, reach out to the appropriate office.
- Signature matters: Ensure your signature on the application matches the name you want on your commission. Nicknames are not acceptable.