How To Become a Loan Signing Agent in North Carolina

When you want to start a new career as a loan signing agent in North Carolina, you need the right steps. This is a journey you will need to take if you want the benefits of this career.

A loan signing agent in North Carolina may also be called a notary loan signing agent. You will need to become a Notary Public and get the right training to be successful. Let’s look at the job duties for this career and the steps to becoming a loan signing agent in North Carolina.

Job Duties of a Loan Signing Agent in North Carolina

While you can certainly work as a loan signing agent in several industries, most work in the real estate industry. You will likely take care of mortgage loan closings for those buying homes or refinancing their mortgage.

This includes walking borrowers through the loan documents. While you cannot provide any legal or professional advice, you can make sure they sign and initial in the correct places. You will also verify the identity of those signing the documents and provide notary services.

How To Become a Loan Signing Agent in North Carolina in 10 Steps

Step #1 – Meet the North Carolina Basic Requirements

You will need to be at least 18 years of age, or you must be legally emancipated by the court if you want to become a loan signing agent in North Carolina. It’s also necessary to be a legal resident of the United States. You will need to reside or work in North Carolina, as well.

The state of North Carolina also requires that you have a high school diploma or a GED. It’s necessary to be able to speak, read, and write English, as well.

Step #2 – Get Your North Carolina Notary Public Manual

This manual must be purchased if you want to become a loan signing agent in North Carolina. It will teach you the best practices, practical instructions, tips, and more when it comes to being a Notary Public in NC.

Make sure you get the most up-to-date version of this manual. It can often be found on Amazon, at a local bookstore, or at a community college.

Step #3 – Complete the Notary Public Course

You will need to know the proper way to perform notarization. This course will help you learn how to do a notary, along with what you cannot do, and the best practices for the profession.

You will need to complete the six-hour course at a local community college. It may be split into two days, but often it’s a one-day course. North Carolina requires this course for all loan signing agents.

It’s also possible to complete this training online. The course will run about $160, depending on how you go about taking the course. In some cases, the course will come with the Notary Public Manual you need.

Step #4 – Pass Your Notary Public Exam

You will need to complete and pass the Notary Public Exam at the end of your course. It’s necessary to score an 80% on this course, to pass. The exam can be taken up to three times in 30 days. However, if you fail all three times, you will have to retake the course.

With the right practice exams and exam prep, you can be well-prepared for your Notary Public Exam. This exam will cover things from the Notary Public Manual and the course you will take.

Step #5 – Submit Your Notary Application

You will need to submit your notary application to the North Carolina Secretary of State. The form can be found online here.

It’s a pretty common application, and you will need to pay a $50 filing fee when you file the application. You will also need a signature from your course instructor.

Step #6 – Take Your Oath

After your application has been processed, you will need to send in your Notary Oath Notification Letter through email or mail. It’s also necessary to go to the Register of Deeds Office within 45 days to take the actual oath. There will be a $10 fee for this, as well.

Once you take the oath, you will be provided with your Notary Certificate on the spot. Make sure to review it and check the information for accuracy.

Step #7 – Take Advanced Loan Signing Agent Training

Up to this point, all the steps you have taken are to become a Notary Public. This is important, but you will likely want training as a loan signing agent, too. Figuring out how to maximize your income might take years without the proper training.

Advanced loan signing agent training can help you earn a six-figure income in this career. You’ll be able to land more appointments, charge more per appointment, and complete appointments faster. The best training will allow you to earn a very nice living as a loan signing agent.

Step #8 – Get your Notary Seal

You will need a Notary Seal that fits the statutes of North Carolina. It will be your official seal and will be used with every notarial act. Most office supply stores will carry the type of seal you need.

Step #9 – Keep a Notary Journal

You will need to keep good records as a Notary Public in North Carolina. The right information has to be recorded for every appointment you take. Make sure this is a permanently bounded journal with numbered pages, too.

Step #10 – Become an Electronic Notary in North Carolina

In the state of North Carolina, you get the ability to become an electronic notary. This makes it even more convenient to work as a loan signing agent. E-notary makes it possible to earn more and take more appointments pretty quickly and easily.

While this is more convenient, you will still need to meet the signer face-to-face. This is not the same thing as Remote Online Notarization.

An eNotary course must be taken, which is three hours long. This can be taken at a community college or online for about $75. It’s also necessary to choose an approved electronic solution provider and register with the NC Secretary of State, which costs $50.

Frequently Asked Questions About Loan Signing Agents in North Carolina

If you want to enjoy a very lucrative and rewarding career as a loan signing agent, these are the steps to follow. In North Carolina, you will need to complete the right training and pass the right exam. These steps will help you become a loan signing agent in North Carolina.