# How many of you are business owners? **URL:** \ **Category:** Beginner's Questions\ **Created:** [April 22, 2025, 2:03pm UTC](https://forum.notarycafe.com/t/how-many-of-you-are-business-owners/51433 "2025-04-22T14:03:17Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 18\ **Page:** 1
**Author:** ![was9447](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/w/76d3ee/32.png) [@was9447](https://forum.notarycafe.com/u/was9447)\ **Post date:** [April 22, 2025, 2:03pm UTC](https://forum.notarycafe.com/t/how-many-of-you-are-business-owners/51433/1 "2025-04-22T14:03:17Z")
Hi everybody! I’m a newbie here and I’m looking forward to getting started. Please excuse me if this has been asked before, but I couldn’t come up with anything on a search. How many of you started your business before accepting jobs? Do you need one? I’m not worried about starting one, I just know that takes a bit of time and I’d like to start rolling now. Ive been seeing jobs on signing order that I want to grab but I’ve been hesitant thinking that I have to put a business together first. ---
**Author:** ![johnsonps306](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forum.notarycafe.com/johnsonps306/32/35090_2.png) [@johnsonps306](https://forum.notarycafe.com/u/johnsonps306)\ **Post date:** [April 22, 2025, 2:05pm UTC](https://forum.notarycafe.com/t/how-many-of-you-are-business-owners/51433/2 "2025-04-22T14:05:35Z")
I’m self employed. I didn’t need a business name to start working. ---
**Author:** ![cNsa5](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forum.notarycafe.com/cnsa5/32/33381_2.png) [@cNsa5](https://forum.notarycafe.com/u/cNsa5)\ **Post date:** [April 22, 2025, 2:35pm UTC](https://forum.notarycafe.com/t/how-many-of-you-are-business-owners/51433/3 "2025-04-22T14:35:00Z")
@was9447 Have you reviewed this thread that contains a **Step-By-Step Guide**? > [@star IMPORTANT: A Seven-Step Guide to help you Achieve Success =\> Insights regarding whether to start a business (or not . . .) or to CONTINUE (or not . . .)](http://forum.notarycafe.com/t/important-a-seven-step-guide-to-help-you-achieve-success-insights-regarding-whether-to-start-a-business-or-not-or-to-continue-or-not/37278): > > If you’re seeking the unadulterated truth, then please read further. If, on the other hand, you’re seeking sugar-coated, misleading, & prevaricating statements, then by all means, please SKIP this Thread . . . ====== STEP 1: There’s a paradigm shift that needs to occur when one charts their course to become a Business Owner by moving away from being an employee. If you’re CERTAIN that you’re ready & have got what it takes to chart your own course and be an independent contractor & business ow… 🦢 ---
**Author:** ![LindaH-FL](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/l/8baadc/32.png) [@LindaH-FL](https://forum.notarycafe.com/u/LindaH-FL)\ **Post date:** [April 22, 2025, 2:54pm UTC](https://forum.notarycafe.com/t/how-many-of-you-are-business-owners/51433/4 "2025-04-22T14:54:11Z")
@was9447 Don’t know where you’re located, but check with your local and state authorities. Here in Florida, in my county, I had to have a business license from my county to conduct my business. If you have to do something at the state level, your first step there will probably be to confirm that your chosen business name is available (not already in use by another entity). Again, your local and state authorities can best answer your question. Welcome and best of luck to you. ---
**Author:** ![cfletcher](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forum.notarycafe.com/cfletcher/32/33399_2.png) [@cfletcher](https://forum.notarycafe.com/u/cfletcher)\ **Post date:** [April 23, 2025, 7:18am UTC](https://forum.notarycafe.com/t/how-many-of-you-are-business-owners/51433/5 "2025-04-23T07:18:06Z")
I can’t quite tell what you’re asking in your question, about being a “business owner”. I am a business owner, but I also accept signing orders. A big part of being a signing agent is having a strong understanding of your state’s notary statutes, how to fill out the notarial certificates correctly, and clear understanding of the loan signing processes. As for business operations in your local area, check with the SBA and S.C.O.R.E representatives for guidance ---
**Author:** ![jennjoneis](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forum.notarycafe.com/jennjoneis/32/34972_2.png) [@jennjoneis](https://forum.notarycafe.com/u/jennjoneis)\ **Post date:** [April 23, 2025, 12:05pm UTC](https://forum.notarycafe.com/t/how-many-of-you-are-business-owners/51433/6 "2025-04-23T12:05:10Z")
I didn’t need to create an LLC or DBA you can be a sole proprietor without it. It is important to have proper loan signing agent training, though My personal opinion: nothing wrong with paying for training as long as you are getting the training that you need ---
**Author:** ![cNsa5](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forum.notarycafe.com/cnsa5/32/33381_2.png) [@cNsa5](https://forum.notarycafe.com/u/cNsa5)\ **Post date:** [April 23, 2025, 12:13pm UTC](https://forum.notarycafe.com/t/how-many-of-you-are-business-owners/51433/7 "2025-04-23T12:13:09Z")
@was9447 As I often express on the **Notary Cafe** forum: - Always employ critical thinking skills - Make decisions from a business owner viewpoint (_not an employee_) - Research & follow the Regulations & Statues within your own State for owning, launching, & operating a business - Utilize your individual State Notarial Handbook for insights & guidance for establishment of a foundational baseline to operate from for your business decisions - Undergo a reputable professional training program; i.e., Notary2Pro - Review the Signing Order [SO] instructions in detail prior to reaching out to the hiring entity for clarifications - Seek out the guidance & support of fellow business owners via a reliable & professional online format; i.e., **Notary Cafe** _ **GENERAL DECISION GUIDELINE:** _ 1. Employ critical thinking skills. 2. Consider the source 3. Evaluate the potential ulterior motive 4. Trust your instincts 🦢 ---
**Author:** ![jennifer.shaffor](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forum.notarycafe.com/jennifer.shaffor/32/33589_2.png) [@jennifer.shaffor](https://forum.notarycafe.com/u/jennifer.shaffor)\ **Post date:** [April 23, 2025, 11:32pm UTC](https://forum.notarycafe.com/t/how-many-of-you-are-business-owners/51433/8 "2025-04-23T23:32:57Z")
Im in Pennsylvania. I did this work for almost 2.5 years before forming an actual business. I did decide to form an actual LLC this January though as I am putting an office up on the property I live on so I can do vehicle title transfers. As far as loan signings though, no, you shouldnt need to form a formal business to be self employed. ---
**Author:** ![Carmen\_Lane](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forum.notarycafe.com/carmen_lane/32/33378_2.png) [@Carmen\_Lane](https://forum.notarycafe.com/u/Carmen_Lane)\ **Post date:** [April 24, 2025, 12:03am UTC](https://forum.notarycafe.com/t/how-many-of-you-are-business-owners/51433/9 "2025-04-24T00:03:44Z")
It helps to know what state you are in, William. Start there. Do not just jump into this blindly. \*\ ***Follow the notary and business rules for _YOUR STATE._** For example, I am in Washington. Yes, I am a business owner. And if you are working as an independent contractor notary signing agent, you would be considered a business owner too. ## Current notary laws and rules for Washington State: - [Uniform Regulation of Business and Professions__](http://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=18.235) (Chapter 18.235 RCW) - [Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts__](http://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=42.45) (Chapter 42.45 RCW) - [Practice and procedure__](http://app.leg.wa.gov/WAC/default.aspx?cite=308-08) (Chapter 308-08 WAC) - [Notaries public__](http://app.leg.wa.gov/WAC/default.aspx?cite=308-30) (Chapter 308-30 WAC) Best of luck to you! ---
**Author:** ![keaton4notary](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forum.notarycafe.com/keaton4notary/32/33597_2.png) [@keaton4notary](https://forum.notarycafe.com/u/keaton4notary)\ **Post date:** [April 27, 2025, 3:00pm UTC](https://forum.notarycafe.com/t/how-many-of-you-are-business-owners/51433/10 "2025-04-27T15:00:16Z")
Never had one, might get one later if I branch out. So far I don’t conduct signings in my home office and I have no fixed place of business other than the surrounding counties. Once you are qualified and accepting offers, you are in business. No need for special ceremonies, secret handshakes or burnt offerings. ---
**Author:** ![yolicue](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forum.notarycafe.com/yolicue/32/33913_2.png) [@yolicue](https://forum.notarycafe.com/u/yolicue)\ **Post date:** [April 27, 2025, 3:27pm UTC](https://forum.notarycafe.com/t/how-many-of-you-are-business-owners/51433/11 "2025-04-27T15:27:25Z")
Not sure what you’re asking. As others have posted … first and foremost, please check your state’s notary laws and regulations for any requirements. If you’re asking if you need any licenses, please check with your local and state authorities. I’m in California and I’ve always had a business license (issued by city of my residence). One of the first things I always recommend any newbie is to get a EIN (easily obtained from IRS). Hiring entities will be requesting your social security number or EIN in order to issue you a 1099 at the end of the year. It’s best, IMO, to give an EIN rather than having your SS# floating around everywhere. When I first started this business in January 2006, first I obtained an EIN and once that was issued, I obtained my business license then I went to my bank and opened a business account. This latter was done in order to keep my business funds and accounts separate from my personal ones. My understanding is that LLC or incorporation is recommended depending on your net worth. In my opinion, all of us notaries/signing agents are business owners UNLESS you’re only it as a hobby. 🤔 ---
**Author:** ![cNsa5](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forum.notarycafe.com/cnsa5/32/33381_2.png) [@cNsa5](https://forum.notarycafe.com/u/cNsa5)\ **Post date:** [April 27, 2025, 3:36pm UTC](https://forum.notarycafe.com/t/how-many-of-you-are-business-owners/51433/12 "2025-04-27T15:36:18Z")
> [@yolicue](#): > > first I obtained an EIN @yolicue **Concur** 💯 percent. That’s one of the initial items strongly recommended within the thread I referenced above ( @was9447 _see the direct url link below_). > [@star IMPORTANT: A Seven-Step Guide to help you Achieve Success =\> Insights regarding whether to start a business (or not . . .) or to CONTINUE (or not . . .)](http://forum.notarycafe.com/t/important-a-seven-step-guide-to-help-you-achieve-success-insights-regarding-whether-to-start-a-business-or-not-or-to-continue-or-not/37278): > > If you’re seeking the unadulterated truth, then please read further. If, on the other hand, you’re seeking sugar-coated, misleading, & prevaricating statements, then by all means, please SKIP this Thread . . . ====== STEP 1: There’s a paradigm shift that needs to occur when one charts their course to become a Business Owner by moving away from being an employee. If you’re CERTAIN that you’re ready & have got what it takes to chart your own course and be an independent contractor & business ow… 🦢 ---
**Author:** ![ewing\_joe](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forum.notarycafe.com/ewing_joe/32/33581_2.png) [@ewing\_joe](https://forum.notarycafe.com/u/ewing_joe)\ **Post date:** [May 3, 2025, 6:47am UTC](https://forum.notarycafe.com/t/how-many-of-you-are-business-owners/51433/13 "2025-05-03T06:47:47Z")
II wish to express my appreciation for cNsa5. Without her insightful contributions, I would have left this forum long ago. My other business is [aallcare.com](http://aallcare.com), my wife is the CEO ---
**Author:** ![cNsa5](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forum.notarycafe.com/cnsa5/32/33381_2.png) [@cNsa5](https://forum.notarycafe.com/u/cNsa5)\ **Post date:** [May 3, 2025, 1:03pm UTC](https://forum.notarycafe.com/t/how-many-of-you-are-business-owners/51433/14 "2025-05-03T13:03:36Z")
@ewing_joe **Thank You** 🎉 for your kind words/commendation of my **Notary Cafe** forum support & assistance. As a _three-time cancer survivor & thriver,_ I’m **very appreciative & grateful** for the _Heavenly Blessing_ of full recovery & reclamation of health (_it’s now been more than 2 decades ago_). It took 16 painstaking (_ofttimes discouraging_) months of physical therapy (_in the early '00s_) to incrementally reclaim it all, **but** as I observed (_& directly benefited from_) the miracle of God’s Wondrous Love & Support, I (_in turn_) have endeavored to ‘share & care’ my expertise to the best of my ability in gratitude for that support; _albeit there are times I fall short of the objective/targeted mark . . ._ . 🦢 ---
**Author:** ![ewing\_joe](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forum.notarycafe.com/ewing_joe/32/33581_2.png) [@ewing\_joe](https://forum.notarycafe.com/u/ewing_joe)\ **Post date:** [May 3, 2025, 5:26pm UTC](https://forum.notarycafe.com/t/how-many-of-you-are-business-owners/51433/15 "2025-05-03T17:26:46Z")
Glad to hear you’re doing well. I too am a cancer survivor having received the “Gift of Life” Bone Marrow transplant over 8 years ago for blood cancer. Afterwards I spent a year without an immune system, masked up years before COVID became a thing. I know that I could relapse at any time so each day is very special to me. ---
**Author:** ![cNsa5](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forum.notarycafe.com/cnsa5/32/33381_2.png) [@cNsa5](https://forum.notarycafe.com/u/cNsa5)\ **Post date:** [May 3, 2025, 5:35pm UTC](https://forum.notarycafe.com/t/how-many-of-you-are-business-owners/51433/16 "2025-05-03T17:35:08Z")
> [@ewing\_joe](#): > > each day is very special **This is true for EACH & EVERY one of us.** Congratulations 🎉_ **It’s a very tough row to hoe . . .** _ _We (individually & as a group) will best be served by doing our level best every day by aiming upward while endeavoring to be of assistance to those who seek the knowledge._ 🦢 ---
**Author:** ![RiverpointeTax](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forum.notarycafe.com/riverpointetax/32/33704_2.png) [@RiverpointeTax](https://forum.notarycafe.com/u/RiverpointeTax)\ **Post date:** [May 26, 2025, 4:51am UTC](https://forum.notarycafe.com/t/how-many-of-you-are-business-owners/51433/17 "2025-05-26T04:51:59Z")
When I retired I got bored and took advantage if the Refi push during Covid. Knowing the Refi push would eventually end, I also started a tax firm specializing in individuals, small business, and Real Estate Investors. Today I focus on Real Estate (long term rentals and flippers) and preparing to expand to Tax Payer representation. My Notary activity is a value added service to my tax clients. ---
**Author:** ![NC\_Mike](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forum.notarycafe.com/nc_mike/32/54_2.png) [@NC\_Mike](https://forum.notarycafe.com/u/NC_Mike)\ **Post date:** [August 24, 2025, 4:52am UTC](https://forum.notarycafe.com/t/how-many-of-you-are-business-owners/51433/18 "2025-08-24T04:52:57Z")
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