I may not fully understand the ins and outs of retirement, but I do have parents who are retired. I have watched as their lives have significantly changed. One thing I have noticed is that they now have a fixed income that will likely never increase. Knowing what an amazing career being a Notary has been for me, I often wonder what the benefits would be for my parents if they decided to start a Notary business in retirement. Both of my parents have busy and full lives, doing things they love with their community, their church, and their friend groups. They might not find starting a Notary career to be necessary for them, but I have met notaries who started their Notary careers much later in their lives, and they inspire me. So today, I thought I would give you ten benefits to starting a Notary business in retirement. 

1. Flexibility and Control:

   Operating a Notary business provides retirees with the flexibility to set their own schedules. This control over working hours allows them to balance work and leisure, adapting to their preferred pace of life.

2. Low Start-up Costs:

   Compared to many other businesses, starting a Notaryz business typically requires minimal start-up costs. The expenses often include notary supplies, education or training fees, and any licensing or bonding fees. This makes it an accessible option for retirees on a budget.

3. Utilization of Skills and Experience:

   Retirees often bring a wealth of experience and skills to the table. The attention to detail, professionalism, and interpersonal skills developed over a lifetime can be valuable assets in the Notary business. The role of a Notaryn involves precision and reliability, qualities that seasoned individuals often possess.

4. Supplemental Income:

   Many retirees seek opportunities to supplement their retirement income. A notary business can provide a steady stream of income without the demands of a full-time job. The flexibility allows retirees to strike a balance between earning money and enjoying their retirement.

5. Community Engagement:

   Operating a Notary business offers retirees the chance to stay connected with their communities. Building professional relationships and networking within the local area can be socially rewarding. It also allows retirees to contribute their skills and services to others.

6. Adaptability to Mobile Services:

   Retirees can choose to offer mobile notary services, where they travel to clients' locations. This adaptability makes it convenient for individuals who may face challenges coming to a traditional office, such as those with mobility issues or busy schedules.

7. Low Stress and Low Liability:

   Notary services typically involve low levels of stress and liability. While precision and adherence to laws are crucial, the nature of the work is not as emotionally taxing as some other professions. This can be especially appealing to retirees seeking a low-stress business venture.

8. Continued Learning and Engagement:

   The process of becoming a Notary may involve education and training, providing retirees with an opportunity for continued learning. Engaging in ongoing education keeps the mind active and can be personally fulfilling.

9. Home-Based Option:

   Many notaries operate their businesses from home, eliminating the need for significant travel or a dedicated office space. This home-based option aligns well with the desire for a comfortable and familiar work environment during retirement. I would be careful with this choice; letting strangers into your home, if you don’t have a separate entrance for an office, might be a little risky. Consider with care.

10. In-Demand Service:

    Notary services are often in demand for various legal and business transactions. By offering essential services, retirees can position themselves in a market where there is a consistent need for notarial acts.

Starting a Notary business in retirement works due to its compatibility with the lifestyle and preferences of retirees. The combination of flexibility, low start-up costs, and the ability to utilize existing skills makes it an attractive option for those looking to stay active and financially independent during their retirement years.

If you are retired, and maybe you aren’t currently as connected to your community as you would like to be, or maybe you are just looking for something to do, I would encourage you to look into what becoming a Notary in your state looks like. Reach out to local notaries in your community to ask about the business, and perhaps ask your peers and community members their thoughts on the subject. No matter what you decide, my wish and hope for you is that you find joy, peace, and purpose in your retirement. If being a Notary helps with that, I highly recommend you check out the National Notary Association. You can click here to check them out today. 

Thank you for taking the time to read this week's blog post. If you have people in your life that you think this blog post might help, I highly encourage you to share it with them. Of course, if you’d like to comment, there's no need to sign in; just leave your name and comment and hit enter. I would love to hear from you.

Until Next Week-

Jennifer K. Cooper, JKC Mobile Notary