To demand or receive fees for government-related services, the notary must do which at their own expense?

• A. Execute, deposit, and file the required official bond
• B. Renew the license annually
• C. Complete continuing education
• D. Post a bond with the county clerk

Answer: (A)

Before a Texas notary can charge for government-related services, there must be an official bond on file. This bond acts as a financial guarantee to protect the public from losses due to notarial errors or misconduct, and the notary pays for it themselves. The bond must be properly executed (signed) and then deposited and filed with the county clerk in the county where the notary is commissioned. Only after this bond is in place can the notary demand or receive fees for notarial acts. This requirement is a fundamental condition of appointment, separate from license renewal or ongoing education, and it must be filed with the county clerk rather than merely posted somewhere.