Notary services are not free, but the cost is usually small
A notary public charges a fee for witnessing your signature and stamping a document. The amount varies by state and by notary — there is no single price. Most notaries charge between $5 and $15 per signature, though some charge by the page or by the document instead. A few places offer notary services at no cost, but these are exceptions rather than the rule.
Some banks and credit unions offer notary services free to customers as a benefit of membership. Your employer, union, or insurance company may also provide free notary access. If you do not have access through one of these routes, you will pay out of pocket or find a low-cost option through your local government.
Key Takeaways
- Most notaries charge $5 to $15 per signature, set by state law or the notary's own rate.
- Banks, credit unions, and some employers offer free notary services to members or employees.
- Your county clerk's office or public library may notarize documents for free or at a reduced rate.
- Online notary services exist but are not available in all states and may cost more than in-person notaries.
- The fee is separate from any cost to obtain or file the document itself.
Where notary services are free or low-cost
Banks and credit unions are the most reliable source of free notary services. Call ahead to confirm the branch offers it and to ask whether you must be a customer. Most require membership, but some will notarize for non-customers at a small fee. Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and most regional banks include this as a customer service.
Your county clerk's office notarizes documents for free or for a small fee set by state law — usually $1 to $5 per signature. Some county clerks charge nothing at all. Call your local clerk's office to ask the fee and whether you need an appointment. Public libraries in many counties also offer free notary services, though availability varies widely. Check your library's website or call to confirm.
If you are a union member, veteran, or employee of a large company, ask your HR department or union representative whether notary services are included. Some insurance companies and legal aid organizations also provide free notary access to members or low-income clients.
What you pay at a private notary
A private notary — someone who works independently or for a notary service — sets their own fee within limits set by state law. Most states cap the fee at $10 to $15 per signature. Some notaries charge a flat fee per document instead, which may be higher if the document has multiple pages or signatures.
Mobile notaries, who come to your home or office, typically charge more than office-based notaries because they charge for travel time. Expect to pay $25 to $75 or more for a mobile notary, depending on distance and the number of signatures needed.
Online notary services, available in some states, usually cost $50 to $150 per document. These services use video conferencing and digital signatures. Not all states allow online notarization, and some states restrict which documents can be notarized online. Check your state's rules before paying for an online service.
How to find a notary near you
Start by calling your bank or credit union. If you are not a member or they do not offer the service, ask for a referral. Many banks know local notaries and can point you to one nearby.
Search online for "notary public near me" or "notary services [your city]" to find private notaries. Google Maps, Yelp, and the National Notary Association website all list notaries by location. Read reviews and call ahead to confirm the fee and hours.
Contact your county clerk's office directly. The clerk's website usually lists the fee and hours, and many allow you to walk in without an appointment. If the office is far from you, ask whether another county location offers the same service.
What to bring when you visit a notary
Bring a government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The notary must verify your identity before witnessing your signature. Bring the original document you need notarized, not a copy. The notary will not notarize a photocopy.
Do not sign the document before you arrive. The notary must watch you sign it. If you have already signed, the notary cannot notarize it and you will need a new copy.
Bring any other documents the notary requests. If you are notarizing a power of attorney or deed, the notary may ask for additional paperwork to confirm the document is legitimate.
State-by-state fee limits
| State | Maximum fee per signature |
|---|---|
| California | $15 |
| Florida | $10 |
| New York | $2.50 |
| Texas | $6 |
| Illinois | $1 to $5 |
State law sets the maximum fee a notary can charge per signature. Some states, like New York, cap fees very low. Others, like California, allow higher fees. A few states do not set a limit, allowing notaries to charge whatever they want. Check your state's notary board website to find the exact fee limit in your state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a notary refuse to notarize a document?
Yes. A notary can refuse if they believe the document is fraudulent, if you cannot prove your identity, or if you have already signed the document. A notary can also refuse if the document is outside their scope of practice or if they have a conflict of interest. If a notary refuses, you will need to find another one.
Do I have to pay if the notary makes a mistake?
No. If the notary makes an error — such as misspelling your name or dating the document wrong — they should correct it at no extra charge. If the error is serious enough that the document is unusable, ask the notary to redo the notarization. Most notaries will do this for free.
What if I need a notary on a weekend or after hours?
Some private notaries and mobile notaries work evenings and weekends, though they may charge extra for off-hours service. Call ahead to ask. Online notary services may also have extended hours, but remember that not all states allow online notarization.
Is a notarized copy the same as a notarized original?
No. A notary can only notarize an original document, not a photocopy. Some notaries can create a certified copy — a photocopy they stamp and sign — but this is different from notarizing the original. Ask the notary whether a certified copy will work for your purpose before you pay.
Can I notarize a document I wrote myself?
Yes, as long as it is a legal document you have the right to create. A notary does not judge whether the document is valid or well-written — they only verify your identity and watch you sign. If you are unsure whether a document is legal, consult an attorney before paying a notary.