What Is a Notary Signing Agent? Understanding the Role and How It Differs from a Traditional Notary Public

If you’ve recently become a notary public or are considering it, you’ve probably come across the term Notary Signing Agent (NSA). While all Notary Signing Agents are notaries, not all notaries are signing agents.

In this blog post, we’ll break down what a Notary Signing Agent is, how their role expands on traditional notary duties, and what you need to do to become one. Whether you’re looking to grow your income or specialize your notarial services, becoming a Notary Signing Agent could be the perfect next step.

What Is a Notary Public?

Before we dive into the details of a Notary Signing Agent, let’s quickly review the basics of a notary public.

A notary public is a state-appointed official who serves as an impartial witness during the signing of important documents. Notaries verify the identity of signers, ensure they are signing voluntarily, and help prevent fraud by completing a notarial certificate.

Common duties include:

• Administering oaths and affirmations

• Taking acknowledgments

• Witnessing signatures

• Certifying copies of documents (where allowed)

What Is a Notary Signing Agent?

A Notary Signing Agent (NSA) is a notary public who has been trained and certified to handle and notarize loan documents, particularly during real estate closings.

NSAs are hired by:

• Title companies

• Mortgage lenders

• Signing services

• Escrow firms

Their main responsibility is to ensure that loan document packages are signed, dated, and notarized correctly before they are returned for processing.

Key Differences Between a Notary Public and a Signing Agent

What Does a Notary Signing Agent Do?

A typical loan signing appointment might include the following tasks:

• Verifying the identity of the borrower(s)

• Explaining the purpose of each document (without offering legal advice)

• Ensuring signatures and initials are in the correct places

• Completing notarial certificates for specific documents

• Returning the signed documents promptly and securely

Most NSAs travel to the borrower’s home or another agreed-upon location, making this a flexible, mobile-friendly profession.

How to Become a Notary Signing Agent

Here’s a step-by-step overview of how to become an NSA:

1. Become a Notary Public

You must be a commissioned notary in your state before you can work as a signing agent.

2. Get Trained and Certified

Take a Notary Signing Agent course offered by a reputable organization like the National Notary Association (NNA). The course covers:

• Mortgage documents

• Signing procedures

• Industry standards

• Legal compliance

Certification often includes passing an exam and a background check.

3. Purchase NSA Supplies

You'll need:

• A laser printer (dual-tray preferred for legal and letter-size docs)

• Secure email and internet access

• A smartphone or GPS

• E&O insurance (recommended)

4. Start Marketing Your Services

Sign up with signing services platforms, create a professional profile, and network with local title companies and mortgage professionals.

Is Becoming a Notary Signing Agent Worth It?

Yes, if you’re looking for:

• A high-demand, flexible career

• Extra income ($75–$200 per signing)

• A way to specialize your notarial skills

• A part-time business or full-time opportunity

With proper training and professionalism, many NSAs turn this into a profitable career path or side hustle.

Final Thoughts

A Notary Signing Agent is more than just a notary—they're a key player in the real estate and mortgage process. If you're already a notary public and want to increase your earning potential and skillset, becoming an NSA is a logical and rewarding next step.

By completing the right training and building your client base, you can establish yourself as a trusted loan signing professional in your community.