Are you thinking about starting a business that allows for a flexible and mobile lifestyle? A Mobile Notary Business may be the perfect option for you. With the rise in virtual offices and remote work, the demand for mobile notaries has grown tremendously. In 2020, the mobile notary industry was worth $10.4 billion and projected to grow by 8.2% annually. Starting a mobile notary business requires careful planning and execution. You need to have a clear understanding of the market, funding, and necessary permits, equipment, and network. In this blog post, we have outlined the 10 essential steps to get your mobile notary business up and running. By following this checklist, you can build a successful mobile notary business that meets the demands of the modern world. Step 1: Develop a Business Plan The first and most important step in starting a mobile notary business is to develop a business plan. This plan should include your business objectives, target market, pricing strategy, marketing plan, and financial forecast. Your business plan will serve as a blueprint for your future success and help you stay organized and focused. Step 2: Research the Market Before launching your mobile notary business, you need to research the market. You need to know who your target customers are, the demand for mobile notary services, and your competitors' strengths and weaknesses. This information will help you make informed decisions about your business strategy and set realistic goals. Step 3: Calculate Potential Earnings Evaluating your earning potential is crucial in determining the feasibility of your mobile notary business. Calculate the average hourly rate for mobile notary services in your area and identify how much revenue you need to generate to cover your expenses and achieve your profit goals. Step 4: Secure Funding Next, you need to secure funding for your mobile notary business. Create a detailed budget that includes start-up expenses, ongoing expenses, and emergency funds. Explore different funding options, such as small business loans, personal savings, or partnerships, to secure the necessary capital. Step 5: Create a Financial Model A financial model is a tool that helps you estimate your business's financial performance over time. Create spreadsheets with projected income, expenses, cash flow, and profit margins. Continuously update your financial model to reflect changes in your business's operations. Step 6: Get Necessary Permits & Licenses To operate a mobile notary business, you need to obtain the necessary permits and licenses to make sure you comply with all state and local regulations. Check with your state's notary public commission for specific requirements and applications. Step 7: Gather Necessary Materials & Equipment To provide reliable and professional mobile notary services, you need to invest in the necessary materials and equipment. You need to have a reliable internet connection, a printer, a notary seal, and a notary journal. Step 8: Develop a Professional Network Building and maintaining a professional network is essential for a mobile notary business's success. Networking can help you find more clients, build relationships with other businesses, and stay up-to-date with new industry trends. Step 9: Promote the Business Marketing your mobile notary business is crucial to attract new customers and grow your client base. Develop a marketing plan that includes building an online presence, creating business cards and brochures, and offering promotions or referral incentives. Step 10: Track Progress & Adjustments Finally, continuously track your mobile notary business's progress and make the necessary adjustments. Evaluate your financial performance and marketing initiatives, and identify areas for improvement. Stay flexible and willing to adapt to meet the changing demands of the market. In conclusion, opening a mobile notary business requires careful planning and execution. By following this 10-step checklist, you can build a successful mobile notary business that meets the demands of the modern world. With the constant rise of virtual offices and remote work, the demand for mobile notaries is only going to grow, making it an ideal industry to start a business in for a flexible and mobile lifestyle.


Develop A Business Plan

The first step towards opening a successful mobile notary business is to develop a well-structured business plan. Such a plan will guide you through every aspect of your business, ranging from its overall goals and objectives, target market, marketing strategy, financial projections, and more.

In creating your business plan, be sure to conduct a thorough market analysis to identify the existing competition in your area and determine how you can differentiate your services to stand out. It is also important to identify your target demographics, including businesses, real estate agents, law firms, and individuals in need of notary services.

  • Outline a clear and concise mission statement that highlights your unique value proposition.
  • Define the products and services you will offer to your clients.
  • Conduct a thorough market analysis to identify the competition and differentiate your services.
  • Create a marketing strategy to build brand awareness and attract clients.
  • Develop a financial plan, including income and expense projections, and funding sources.

Tips & Tricks:

  • Keep your business plan concise and easy to follow, focusing on the key drivers that will help you succeed long term.
  • Include a SWOT analysis to identify your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, and develop a plan to address them.
  • Share your business plan with a mentor or trusted advisor to get feedback and insights to improve it before presenting it to investors or lenders.


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2. Research The Market

Before starting any business, it is crucial to conduct thorough research on the market. This will help in understanding the market demand, what customers are looking for, and the behavior of competitors. For a mobile notary business, researching the market involves the following:

  • Identifying the target market: Determine who your ideal customer is and their specific needs. Is it a specific industry or demographic?
  • Competition Analysis: Study the competition, understand their strengths, weaknesses, and unique selling proposition, and use this information to create a competitive advantage for your business.
  • Market Size and Demand: Understand if there is a demand for a mobile notary business in your area and the potential market size. This will help determine if the business is feasible and can generate profits.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use online tools like Google Trends, Facebook Audience Insights, and keyword research tools to help in identifying market demand.
  • Reach out to industry associations, local chambers of commerce, and other business owners to gather information and insights on the notary market.
  • Attend trade shows and conferences to network, learn about industry trends, and gather insights into what competitors are doing.

Researching the market is a vital step that should not be overlooked. It helps in identifying potential challenges and opportunities, creating a solid business plan, and ensuring the success of your mobile notary business.



3. Calculate The Potential Earnings

Now that we have covered the essential steps to start a mobile notary business, it's time to talk about what really matters - your earnings. Before you quit your day job, it's important to have a good understanding of how much you can potentially earn from your new business venture. Here's how you can calculate your potential earnings:

  • Research the average fees charged by other mobile notary businesses in your area.
  • Estimate the number of signing appointments you can realistically book per week. This will depend on your availability, marketing efforts, and demand in your area.
  • Multiply the average fee per signing appointment by the number of appointments you expect to book per week. This will give you your weekly revenue.
  • Multiply your weekly revenue by 4 to get your estimated monthly revenue.

Keep in mind that your earnings will vary based on your individual circumstances and the demand for mobile notary services in your area. However, this calculation can give you a rough idea of what to expect.

Tips & Tricks:

  • Consider offering additional services, such as document preparation or real estate photography, to increase your earnings.
  • Try to leverage social media and online advertising to increase your visibility and attract more clients.
  • Don't forget to factor in expenses, such as marketing materials and travel costs, when calculating your profits.

In conclusion, starting a mobile notary business can be a profitable and fulfilling career path. By following the steps outlined in this checklist and utilizing these tips and tricks, you can increase your chances of success. Remember to stay organized, stay professional, and always put your clients first.



4. Secure Funding

Now that you have a solid business plan in place, it's time to secure funding for your mobile notary business. Here are some steps to help you raise the capital you need:

  • 1. Determine your start-up costs: Make a list of all the expenses you'll incur in starting your business. This includes equipment, insurance, advertising, website development, office space, etc.
  • 2. Consider the different funding options available to you: You have several options to secure the funding you need to start your business. Some of these options include personal savings, loans, grants, crowdfunding, and investors.
  • 3. Research grants and loans available to small business owners: There may be grants and loans specifically for small business start-ups that you can apply for. Research these options and apply for ones that are a good fit for your business.
  • 4. Don't overlook crowdfunding: Crowdfunding can be a great way to raise money for your business. Set up a campaign on a crowdfunding platform and offer perks and benefits to those who contribute.
  • 5. Pitch your business to potential investors: If you're comfortable pitching your business idea to investors, this can be a great way to secure funding. Prepare a solid pitch that highlights the unique aspects of your business and the potential for growth and profitability.

Tips & Tricks:

  • Consider starting small: You may not need as much funding to get started as you think. Look for ways to minimize your start-up costs and grow your business gradually.
  • Be prepared to show a solid business plan: Investors and lenders want to see that you have a solid plan in place for your business. Be prepared to show a detailed plan that outlines your goals and objectives.
  • Network and make connections: Networking can be a great way to meet potential investors, partners, and customers. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and reach out to others in your industry.

Securing funding for your mobile notary business may take some time and effort, but with the right approach, it's certainly possible. With your funding in place, you'll be on your way to building a successful and profitable business.



5.Create A Financial Model

Creating a financial model for your mobile notary business is an essential step in ensuring financial success. It involves projecting the financial performance of your business over a specific period, usually three to five years, to determine its viability and make informed decisions about its operations.

Below are some crucial factors to consider when creating a financial model for your mobile notary business:

  • Revenue streams: Determine the primary sources of revenue for your business, such as fees charged per notarization. Estimate the number of notarizations you would perform daily, weekly, and monthly, multiplied by your fees.
  • Expenses: Determine your business's start-up costs and ongoing expenses, such as rental fees, fuel, advertising, and office supplies. Estimate your monthly expenditures to ascertain your break-even point and profitability.
  • Cash flow projections: Forecast your daily, weekly, or monthly cash inflows and outflows to track your business's liquidity over time. This is essential for financial planning and risk management.
  • Financial ratios: Use financial ratios such as gross profit margin, net profit margin, and return on investment (ROI) to analyze your business's financial performance and monitor its growth and profitability over time.

With these factors in mind, you can create a solid financial model for your mobile notary business. However, it's crucial to recalculate your projections regularly to keep up with changes in the market, expenses, or revenue growth.

Tips & Tricks

  • Consult a financial professional: If you're not well-versed in creating financial models, consider hiring a financial consultant to assist you.
  • Use a reliable accounting software: Accounting software such as QuickBooks or Xero can help you automate your financial records and projections, saving you valuable time and energy.
  • Revise your projections periodically: It's essential to adjust your financial projections regularly, especially in the first year of operation, to account for market changes or unexpected expenses.

In conclusion, a solid financial model is vital for running a successful mobile notary business. It allows you to make informed decisions, stay nimble and resilient, and achieve long-term financial stability.



6.Get Necessary Permits & Licenses

In order to run a mobile notary business, you will need to obtain the necessary permits and licenses to conduct business legally. Here are the steps to follow to ensure you are properly licensed:

  • Check with your local city and state government to determine the exact licenses and permits required.
  • Apply for a notary public commission with your state's Secretary of State office.
  • Complete any training or education requirements mandated by your state.
  • Obtain a business license from your local government.
  • Register your business with your state's Secretary of State office to obtain a Tax ID number.
  • Acquire the necessary surety bond coverage to protect yourself and your clients.

Tips & Tricks:

  • Research online or speak with a small business advisor to ensure you have all the necessary permits and licenses before launching your mobile notary business.
  • Consider joining professional organizations in your industry to gain access to resources, networking opportunities, and continuing education courses.
  • Save time and money by outsourcing the permit and license application process to a third party.



7. Gather Necessary Materials & Equipment

Gathering necessary materials and equipment is a vital part of starting a mobile notary business. You need to have all the tools you need to provide your services effectively. Here are some of the things you need to acquire:

  • Notary seal and stamp – This is your official notary signature which you will use to authenticate all documents you notarize.
  • Paperwork/forms – You will need to have all the required paperwork and forms that you will use to carry out your tasks. Ensure you have a steady supply of the necessary documents to avoid inconveniencing your clients.
  • Record book – You are required to keep a journal of all the documents you notarize. It is important to keep an accurate record of all transactions.
  • Mobile device and computer – You will need these devices to record your transactions and communicate with your clients effectively.
  • Transportation – Since you will be traveling to clients' locations, you need reliable transportation to get you there.
  • Business cards – You will need to market your services, and business cards are a great way to do this. Ensure you have enough cards to hand out to potential clients.

Important Tips

  • Ensure you have a reliable mode of communication when traveling to clients' locations, such as a hands-free device for your phone or a GPS system.
  • Make sure your record book is up to date and accurately reflects all your transactions.
  • Invest in a good quality notary seal and stamp to ensure that your documents are properly authenticated.

Once you have acquired all the necessary materials and equipment, ensure that you have a system in place to keep track of them. Keep an inventory of your supplies and ensure that you always have enough to carry out your tasks efficiently.



8. Develop Professional Network

One crucial aspect of starting and running any successful business is developing a reliable professional network. This is especially important in the mobile notary business, which involves a high level of interaction with people in different industries. Building a network of individuals and businesses that you can rely on for referrals and support is an essential step in launching your mobile notary business.

  • Attend Professional Events: One effective way of building your professional network is by attending industry-related events. This could include conferences, workshops, and seminars where you can meet other professionals and learn more about the business. Make sure to carry your business cards and exchange contacts with other attendees who may provide useful referrals and insights.
  • Join Professional Organizations: Another way of building your network and staying informed is by joining professional organizations. There are several notary associations that offer a range of benefits, including access to training, networking opportunities, and marketing resources. Some of the reputable associations include the American Society of Notaries and the National Notary Association.
  • Join Online Communities: The internet has made it easier to connect and network with people from different parts of the world. Joining online communities, such as LinkedIn groups and forums, can provide more opportunities to reach out to other professionals, ask questions, and share insights.

Tips and Tricks:

  • Be genuine and respectful when networking. Avoid trying to sell yourself or your services aggressively.
  • Offer to help other professionals. This could include providing free advice or assisting with tasks that you are skilled in.
  • Attend events and join groups that are relevant to your target market. This will ensure you meet people who are likely to refer clients to your business.

Building a professional network takes time and effort. It requires you to be proactive, genuine, and consistent in your efforts to connect with people. However, the benefits of having a reliable network, such as more referrals, access to knowledge and resources, and a support system, are invaluable, especially when starting your mobile notary business.



9. Promote The Business

After setting up your mobile notary business, it's time to promote it to your target market. Here are some strategies to ensure your business gets noticed:

  • 1. Build a website - Having a website is a great way to showcase your services to potential clients. Make sure to include information about your experience and education, and make it easy for clients to contact you.
  • 2. Take advantage of social media - Utilize social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to promote your business and connect with potential clients. Share informative content, offer promotions, and engage with your followers.
  • 3. Join local business organizations - Joining local business organizations and attending networking events can help you meet potential clients and establish relationships with other professionals in your area.
  • 4. Offer referral incentives - Encourage your existing clients to refer their friends and family to your business by offering incentives such as discounts or free services.
  • 5. Advertise in local newspapers and directories - Consider advertising your services in local newspapers and directories to reach a wider audience.

Tips & Tricks

  • Offer a free initial consultation to potential clients to help build trust and establish a relationship.
  • Partner with local businesses such as real estate agencies or law firms to increase your visibility.
  • Be responsive and professional when communicating with clients to build a positive reputation.

By implementing these strategies and staying persistent with your marketing efforts, you can start growing your mobile notary business and attract new clients. Remember, promoting your business is an ongoing process, so be sure to regularly evaluate and adjust your marketing strategies based on your results.



10.Track Progress & Adjustment Of Your Plan

Once you have successfully started your mobile notary business, it's important to track your progress and make necessary adjustments to your plan. This will help you stay on track and continue growing your business.

Tracking Progress:

  • Keep a record of all your appointments and earnings. This will help you evaluate your financial progress and see where you're making the most money.
  • Keep track of your expenses. This will help you understand where you're spending most of your money and where you can cut down costs.
  • Take surveys from your clients to see how satisfied they are with your services.
  • Use social media analytics to track the success of your marketing campaigns.

Adjusting Your Plan:

  • Re-evaluate your business plan every few months to see what's working and what's not.
  • Make necessary changes to your target market based on your bookings and earnings.
  • Adjust your pricing if you find you're not getting enough business or if customers are not willing to pay the current prices.
  • Explore new marketing channels to reach more potential customers.

Tips & Tricks:

  • Stay up-to-date with industry trends and adjust your business strategies accordingly to remain competitive.
  • Offer referral discounts to existing clients to incentivize them to bring in new business.
  • Always be open to feedback and suggestions from clients and take necessary actions accordingly.

Tracking your progress and adjusting your business plan is crucial to the growth and sustainability of your mobile notary business. By regularly analyzing your data and making necessary changes, you can ensure the success of your business in the long run.


In conclusion, starting a mobile notary business can be a lucrative and rewarding venture that offers the flexibility of a mobile lifestyle. With the ever-increasing demand for mobile notary services, now is the perfect time to take the first step in pursuing your dream business. By following the 10 essential steps outlined in this checklist, you can ensure that your mobile notary business is well-positioned for success. Remember to develop a solid business plan, research your market, calculate your potential earnings, secure funding, create a financial model, obtain necessary permits and licenses, gather necessary equipment, develop a professional network, promote your business, and continuously track progress. With dedication and perseverance, your mobile notary business can flourish and thrive in today's fast-paced world.

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  • 40+ Charts & Metrics
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