Mobile Notary Supplies Checklist

Notary Sequential Journal

This is the item to have for a mobile notary. Most states and jurisdictions require that a notary public carries and records all acts that they perform in a sequential journal. Keeping diligent records of notarial acts provides security for the notary, as notarial acts are public records and subpoenas can be issued for the review of notarial acts.

Not sure if your state requires you to keep a sequential journal? The National Notary Association highly recommends you carry one, even if not required by law.

Business Cards

When starting a mobile notary business, you should never, EVER, leave the house without your mobile notary business cards. They are THE primary way for small, mobile businesses to gain word of mouth while just starting out.

Business cards don't need to be super fancy, as cleaner designs help to convey the information you want to share (your name, business name, job title/role/service offered, contact info). VistaPrint is the best-known printing service on the web, with thousands of customizable templates and fast, affordable shipping. You're sure to find just the right business card to help you stand out from the crowd.

Messenger Bag/Briefcase

The briefcase is another important piece of equipment for any serious mobile notary. Not only do they provide security for your sequential journal and equipment, but they are quite often required for many mobile notaries public to have.

When shopping for a good locking briefcase there are several things to consider: key/passcode access, portable power supply for tablets/scanners, ease of use and carrying, etc. There are any number of locking briefcases online in all sizes and styles. You're sure to find one that you love and that works best for you.

Self-Inking Notary Stamp

A requirement for all notaries, ordering your stamp is one of the last steps before beginning work. Order your self-inking stamp from Amazon is very easy. Just order it and the seller will follow up with you to walk you through the steps needed to have it made.

Stapler/Staple Remover

Very useful for keeping documents organized, a stapler and staple remover is a must have item for mobile notaries. You don't need a full-size desktop stapler, as carrying that around will add unnecessary weight to your supply kit. A small, handheld stapler and remover are all you need to keep documents neat and accessible.

Inkless Thumbprint Pad

Many notarizations require a thumbprint for completion. Rather than use an inkpad that dirties fingers, try an inkless thumbprint pad. Easy and no mess!

Cell Phone

It should go without saying, but all mobile notaries should carry a cell phone. From booking clients to finding directions to your next client, a good cell phone with reliable service is the lifeblood of a good mobile notary business. Before your first day on duty, put all of the most important numbers into your address book on your phone, or even better, into speed dial so they can be dialed almost immediately.

Cell Phone Mount

By now, everyone should know that texting and talking on the phone while driving can be dangerous. Mobile notaries are often glued to their phones, so it's a good idea to use a cell phone mount or holder in your car while traveling to client destinations.

A good mount will stay securely in place, allow easy access to charger outlets, and provide a clean line of sight for GPS directions while on the road. A cell phone mount can make life so much easier and keep you comfortable and safe on the road.

Digital Camera

A digital camera can be a useful addition to a mobile notary's supply kit. While not required in notarial acts or loan signings, a digital camera could be quite beneficial for those looking to expand their earnings by serving as a property inspector.

These jobs require very small commitments and pay pretty well. As a property inspector you will take pictures of business locations, fill out reports and submit your report to insurance agents/property owners.

Tablet

At this point in time, everyone should understand the value a tablet adds to a small, mobile business. From sending emails on the go, to managing your website, to collecting customer payments, a tablet makes life easier for mobile businesses.

Point-of-Sale services such as Square make payment processing easy and give mobile notaries an opportunity to diversify their income.

Portable Document Scanner

A portable document scanner is a very handy tool to have, ESPECIALLY as a loan signing agent. During loan signings, two copies are produced: the borrower copy and the lender copy. After completion of signing the borrower receives their copy and you send the lender's copy back to them via mail or fax.

A mobile document scanner can provide an on-demand digital backup for both sides of the transaction. It can serve as an important "add-on" service for your mobile notary business.