Why Notary Public Is an Underrated Side Hustle
Most people think of a notary as someone who stamps documents for $2 at the bank. That's one version of it. But trained loan signing agents — notaries who specialize in real estate closing documents — earn $100–$200 per appointment and complete signings in 60–90 minutes. In a state like Rhode Island with an active real estate market, 2–3 signings per day on weekends is entirely achievable.
Total startup cost: under $200. Time to first paid appointment: 2–4 weeks.
Step-by-Step: Become a Rhode Island Notary
Step 1: Meet basic requirements
- Be 18 years or older
- Be a resident of Rhode Island OR maintain a place of business in RI
- Have no felony convictions (or disqualifying misdemeanors)
- Complete a basic notary education course (required since 2023)
Step 2: Complete the required training
Rhode Island requires new notaries to complete a notary education course approved by the Secretary of State. Courses are available online through the National Notary Association (NNA) and other providers for $20–$50.
Step 3: Pass the notary exam
Rhode Island requires a notary exam. The NNA provides prep materials. Most applicants pass on the first attempt.
Step 4: Submit your application
Apply through the Rhode Island Secretary of State. Application fee: $75. Processing takes 1–2 weeks.
Step 5: Purchase your notary supplies
- Notary stamp (required): $20–$35
- Notary seal embosser (optional but professional): $25–$45
- Notary journal (required): $15–$25
- Errors & Omissions insurance ($25,000 coverage): ~$35–$50/year
Total startup cost: ~$125–$200
How Rhode Island Notaries Get Paid
| Service | RI Statutory Maximum | Typical Mobile Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Notarized signature | $5 per signature | $5 per signature |
| Mobile travel fee | Not regulated | $25–$75 per appointment |
| Loan signing (full package) | Not regulated | $100–$200 per signing |
| Remote Online Notarization | Not regulated | $25–$50 per session |
The real money is in loan signings. When a homebuyer closes on a mortgage, a notary signing agent must be present to witness and notarize 30–60+ signatures on loan documents. Title companies pay $100–$200 per signing, and experienced loan signing agents can complete 2–3 in a day.
Partner — LegalZoom
Form an LLC or incorporate in Rhode Island — fast and affordable.
Becoming a Loan Signing Agent in Rhode Island
Once you have your notary commission, take an additional loan signing agent course:
- National Notary Association (NNA) Loan Signing Agent certification: $65–$89, teaches you how to handle mortgage document packages
- Loan Signing System by Mark Wills: $197–$997 (more comprehensive, includes business training)
- Signing Agent Success: $97 (budget-friendly, well-reviewed)
After certification, register on signing service platforms that connect you with title companies:
- Snapdocs
- SigningOrder
- Notary Rotary
- Signing Agent (by NNA)
- 123Notary
Rhode Island's active real estate market in Providence, East Greenwich, Barrington, and Newport creates consistent demand for loan signing agents, especially as interest rates fluctuate and refinance activity picks up.
Remote Online Notarization (RON) in Rhode Island
Rhode Island authorized Remote Online Notarization (RON) in 2023. This means you can notarize documents for clients across the country using audio-visual technology — without leaving home. RON dramatically expands your potential client base beyond Rhode Island.
RON platforms include:
- Notarize (now Proof)
- DocuSign Notary
- Notarize.com
- PandaDoc Notary
Typical RON session: 10–15 minutes, $25–$50 per session. A busy RON notary can complete 5–8 sessions per day from home.
How Much Can You Earn as a Rhode Island Notary?
| Focus | Volume | Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| General notary (bank/UPS Store style) | 5–10 signatures/day | $25–$50/day — Low value |
| Mobile notary (traveling to clients) | 3–5 appointments/day | $100–$250/day |
| Loan signing agent (weekends only) | 4–6 signings/weekend | $400–$1,200/weekend |
| RON notary (from home) | 6–10 sessions/day | $150–$500/day |
The highest earners combine loan signing + RON: traditional signings on weekdays, RON sessions from home evenings and weekends.
Notary Starter Kit (Amazon)
- 📋 Notary Public Record Journal / Log Book — Required in Rhode Island; document every notarial act
- 🖊️ Pre-Inked Notary Seal Stamp — Fast, clean impressions for high-volume signing appointments
- 💼 Portable Expanding File Folder — Organize and transport loan document packages professionally
- 🗂️ Large Binder Clips 50-Pack — Secure large mortgage document packages during loan signings
- 🖋️ Black Ink Fine Point Pens 12-Pack — Always bring multiple; borrowers frequently need them
As an Amazon Associate, AskRhodeIsland.com earns from qualifying purchases.
Notary Public FAQ
How long does it take to get a notary commission in Rhode Island?
From completing your course to receiving your commission: approximately 2–4 weeks. The Secretary of State processes applications in 1–2 weeks once submitted.
Can I notarize for family members in Rhode Island?
Technically yes, as long as you have no financial interest in the document being notarized. However, most notary best practices recommend avoiding notarizing for close family members to prevent any appearance of conflict of interest.
Do I need E&O insurance?
Rhode Island does not legally require it, but it's strongly recommended if you're doing loan signings. A $25,000 E&O policy costs $35–$50/year. Title companies increasingly require proof of E&O insurance before adding you to their signing agent roster.
How do I get my first signing appointment?
Register on Snapdocs and Signing Order immediately after getting certified. Set your service area, pricing, and availability. Your first few signings may come at lower rates ($75–$100) — accept them to build your rating and review history. Rates increase with experience and reviews.
More Side Hustle & Business Guides for Rhode Island
Looking for more ways to earn extra money? Explore every guide in this series:
- Best Side Hustles in Rhode Island 2026 — 20 ways to earn $500–$2,000+ per month
- Start a Cleaning Business in Rhode Island — $800–$2,500/month, no license required
- Dog Walking & Pet Sitting Business in RI — Start earning in days with Rover
- DoorDash, Uber Eats & Grubhub Driver Guide for RI — $15–$22/hour in Providence & Newport
- Start a Lawn Care Business in Rhode Island — $1,500–$4,000/month seasonal income
- Make Money Selling on Etsy from Rhode Island — Handmade, vintage & digital products
- Start a Pressure Washing Business in RI — $200–$500 per job, coastal demand
- Rent Your Car on Turo in Rhode Island — $400–$1,200/month passive income
- Freelance Business Ideas from Rhode Island — Web design, copywriting, bookkeeping & more