What Every Notary Entrepreneur Should Have in Their Notary Bag

Brown leather briefcase with office accessories, isolated on white background

As a notary entrepreneur, your notary bag is your portable office, and having it well-stocked is essential for providing efficient and professional services. Whether you’re just starting or are a seasoned notary, ensuring you have the right tools on hand can make all the difference in your day-to-day operations. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what you should have in your notary bag to be prepared for any situation.

1. Notary Journal

Your notary journal is one of the most critical items in your bag. It’s essential for recording all notarial acts and serves as a legal record. Ensure your journal is up-to-date and always within reach.

2. Notary Stamp and Embosser

A notary stamp is a must-have, and many notaries also carry an embosser for added security. Make sure your stamp is re-inked and in good condition. Having a backup stamp can be a lifesaver if your primary one fails.

3. Blue and Black Pens

Carry multiple pens in blue and black ink. Some clients may have specific preferences, and it’s always good to be prepared. Additionally, having extra pens ensures you’re never caught without one during a signing.

4. Thumbprint Pad

In some jurisdictions, thumbprints are required for certain notarizations. Having a thumbprint pad handy ensures you can comply with these requirements without delay.

5. Portable Scanner

A portable scanner allows you to quickly scan and send documents while on the go. This can be particularly useful for clients who need immediate electronic copies of their notarized documents.

6. Identification Verification Tools

A magnifying glass or a jeweler’s loupe can help verify identification documents. These tools are especially useful for reading small print and examining security features on IDs.

7. Business Cards

Always have a stack of business cards in your bag. They are a simple yet effective way to market your services and provide clients with your contact information.

8. Sticky Notes and Flags

Sticky notes and flags are handy for marking signatures and important sections in documents. They help keep the signing process organized and ensure nothing is missed.

9. Portable Charger

A portable charger ensures your phone, tablet, or other electronic devices remain powered throughout the day. This is crucial for staying connected with clients and accessing important information on the go.

10. Small Flashlight

A small flashlight can be incredibly useful for working in dimly lit areas or verifying documents in low-light conditions.

11. Hand Sanitizer and Wipes

Maintaining hygiene is important, especially when handling documents that others will touch. Keep hand sanitizer and wipes in your bag to clean your hands and surfaces as needed.

12. Legal Reference Materials

Carry a small notary law reference book or have a digital copy on your device. This ensures you can quickly check any legal requirements or procedures during your appointments.

13. Emergency Cash

Having a small amount of emergency cash can be useful for parking fees, tolls, or other unexpected expenses.

14. Snacks and Water

Keep a bottle of water and some snacks in your bag. Being prepared for long appointments or busy days ensures you stay hydrated and energized.

Conclusion

Having a well-prepared notary bag is crucial for every notary entrepreneur. It not only helps you stay organized but also enhances your professionalism and efficiency. Regularly check and replenish your bag to ensure you always have the necessary tools to provide top-notch service to your clients. With the right essentials in your notary bag, you’ll be ready to handle any notarial act with confidence and ease.

Daniel C. Lewis resides in Carmel, IN. He was named in 2010 Notary of the Year by the National Notary Association. He was also named in the same year an Honorary Secretary of State by the Indiana Secretary of State. Daniel is currently serving as the Executive Director of the Lewis Notary & Training Services Inc. Daniel is an entrepreneur, writer, video editor, and Keynote Speaker.