What is 'errors and omissions' (E&O) insurance for notaries?

E&O insurance is professional liability coverage protecting notaries against claims arising from notarial errors. What it covers: unintentional mistakes — improper identification, defective certificate wording, failing to require signer presence, journal errors, and similar negligence. Typical coverage amounts: $5,000 to $100,000+ depending on the policy. Premium: typically $25-$200+ per year, depending on coverage and state. What it does NOT cover: intentional misconduct, fraud, criminal acts. Important: E&O insurance protects the notary; it does not protect the signer or third parties from notary errors (though it provides funds for the notary to pay valid claims). Some states require a separate notary bond — a bond protects signers and third parties (the bond pays valid claims up to the bond amount, then the notary must reimburse the bond company). Bond and E&O insurance serve different purposes: bond protects the public; E&O protects the notary. Many notaries carry both. Costs are modest relative to the risk of an uncovered legal claim.