Posted by Aviva Dubrow on 2/7/10 5:00pm
Msg #321844

Notary renewal

OK, so in September I will renew my notary commission for the first time. I am starting to look into everything that I need to do. I know that many NotRot members have strong opinions about the NNA. My question for discussion: is it better to renew through your state association (I am in PA) or through the NNA (where I got started)? Does one have a benefit over the other, cost not being the main issue. Just looking for thoughts from the collective wisdom. (I am thinking of joining PAN, but am still looking for some feedback).
Thank you for all the excellent advice that has been posted in the past, it has truly been enlightening.

Reply by CaliNotary on 2/7/10 5:15pm
Msg #321847

A commission is a commisson

Doesn't matter where you take the test or do your education or whatever is required in your state, it's all ultimately issued by the secretary of state.

Unless you have strong pro feelings for the NNA, I'd say don't line their greedy pockets with any more money and do it without their involvement. And save yourself the money when it comes time to renew, with 4 years experience and this board for questions, there's nothing they can do for you that you don't already have at your disposal for free.

Reply by CopperheadVA on 2/7/10 5:26pm
Msg #321848

I always go straight to the state website and renew directly with the state through its instructions. I don't renew through an agency.

Reply by parkerc/ME on 2/7/10 5:49pm
Msg #321851

Why would you ever renew through any other source than your own Secretary of State? Nobody knows your requirements for renewal better that your SOS, not NNA or anyone else.

Reply by BrendaTx on 2/7/10 6:27pm
Msg #321852

In Texas you need a bonding company

so it's easier if you hook up with a company who gives packages. That's why she's going that direction. You've got to have that bond before the commission will be issued.

Reply by Linda_H/FL on 2/7/10 6:31pm
Msg #321853

Same in FL...and I'm already getting mailings

from various companies (mine is up in June) - I'll probably have them handle it for me - but would NOT have the other org. do it for me - I agree with Cali - why pay them to do something you can very easily do on your own.

Reply by desktopfull on 2/7/10 10:41pm
Msg #321874

Re: Same in FL...and I'm already getting mailings

Linda try Budget Notary Services, they are great (I've been with them for 8 years) and don't send you a gigantic seal. I renewed with them got my bond, 4 yrs of $25,000.00 E&O insurance and my commission for $139.00, and I had my new seal within 3 weeks. If you want their number PM me.

Reply by Aviva Dubrow on 2/7/10 6:41pm
Msg #321855

Thank you for the comments. I guess I was just wondering if there was any difference. When I received my commission, the NNA did all the legwork for me, the same as the state association also offers to do. My first introduction was through the NNA and at that time, I was not aware of the state group. I guess also the state association will offer more relavant information than the national (?), but I am leaning now toward PAN. They are also offering a better selection of class times and locations. How soon would you all recommend taking the class (my commission is up in September)?

Reply by sjp on 2/7/10 7:12pm
Msg #321857

Can obtain PA Notary Renewal (2-3 months prior to your commission expiration):

1) PA Dept of State website - Have to find your own bond & E&O Ins.
http://www.dos.state.pa.us/notaries/cwp/view.asp?a=1240&q=444909¬ariesNav=|
2) PAN - Can obtain bond & E&O Ins.
http://www.notary.org/
3) Notaries Equipment Company, Philadelphia, PA - Can obtain bond & E&O ins.
http://www.notariesequipment.com/

Good luck.

Reply by CopperheadVA on 2/7/10 7:25pm
Msg #321859

From what I've heard on this forum, PAN is a fabulous organization. Wish we had something like it here in VA.

Reply by MW/VA on 2/8/10 8:16am
Msg #321888

I've also heard that PAN is a great organization. It sounds like you've been dupped into believing NNA has anything to do with your commission--they don't. Also, when you renew & in the market for supplies or E &O insurance you might want to check prices here on NotRot. I don't give XYZ a dime any more.

Reply by JanetK_CA on 2/7/10 8:39pm
Msg #321861

I agree with the others about handling it yourself directly from your state authorities - and you now have links provided. I have always compared the bundled packages - from the NNA and others - and have found it less expensive to not use a bundled plan. First, they usually throw in some "freebies" that make it look like a great deal, but I didn't always need those things (like a packet of acknowledgment certificates?? - I make my own) and I was able to get my bond & E&O ins. for less elsewhere. Lots of people also like the offerings and service from right here at NOTROT.

Reply by Maureen_nh on 2/7/10 10:53pm
Msg #321877

Also from what I have heard from PA notaries and having read some of their material, you have one of the best resources in the country, bar none, with PAN. Go for it.