Notary fees vary by state and by the type of document, but most single-signature notarizations cost between $5 and $15
There is no federal price cap on notary services. Each state sets its own maximum fee, and many states allow notaries to charge less than the legal limit. A straightforward one-signature notarization might cost $5 in one state and $15 in another. Documents requiring multiple signatures, travel to your location, or copies cost more. Some notaries charge a flat rate per document; others charge per signature or per page.
The notary you choose—whether a bank employee, a dedicated notary public, or a shipping store—can also affect the price. Bank notaries often charge nothing if you have an account there. Independent notaries and mobile notaries (who come to you) typically charge the state maximum or close to it. Knowing your state's legal limit helps you spot overcharging and compare prices before you hand over your document.
Key Takeaways
- Most states allow notaries to charge between $5 and $15 per signature, though the legal maximum varies by state.
- Bank notaries may notarize documents free for account holders, while independent notaries usually charge the state maximum.
- Travel fees, multiple signatures, and certified copies all add to the base notarization cost.
- You can call ahead to ask a notary's price before bringing your document, and comparing rates between notaries is normal practice.
State-by-state fee limits
Each state publishes a maximum fee that notaries can legally charge. Some common limits are $5 per signature (Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana), $10 per signature (California, Florida, New York, Texas), and $15 per signature (Colorado, Illinois, Ohio). A few states like Alaska and Hawaii allow higher fees. Some states cap the total fee per document rather than per signature—for example, Maryland allows up to $50 for a single notarization.
To find your state's limit, search "[your state] notary public fee" or contact your state's Secretary of State office. The office that oversees notaries in your state publishes the legal maximum. Many notaries charge less than the maximum, so you may find notarizations for $3 or $5 even in states where $10 or $15 is allowed. Asking the notary directly is the fastest way to know the actual price.
What costs extra beyond the base fee
Travel fees explore when a mobile notary comes to your home or office. These typically range from $25 to $75 depending on distance and how far the notary has to drive. If you go to the notary's office instead, there is no travel charge.
Multiple signatures mean multiple fees. If your document has three signature lines that all need notarizing, you pay the per-signature fee three times. Some notaries offer a small discount if you have several documents to notarize at once, but this is not standard.
Certified copies cost more than a straightforward notarization. A certified copy is a photocopy that the notary stamps and signs to confirm it matches the original. Expect to pay $1 to $5 per certified copy on top of the notarization fee, depending on your state and the notary.
Oath or affidavit preparation may carry an extra charge if the notary has to write or format the oath language for you. Some notaries include this in the base fee; others charge $5 to $10 extra.
Where to find notaries and typical pricing
Banks and credit unions often notarize documents free for account holders. Call your branch first to confirm they offer the service and whether you need an appointment. Non-members may pay $5 to $10. This is usually the cheapest option if you have an account.
UPS Store and FedEx Office locations employ notaries and charge $10 to $15 per signature in most states. Hours are typically longer than banks, and you do not need an appointment at many locations, though calling ahead is wise. Prices vary by franchise, so call your local store.
Independent notary publics advertise online or in the phone book and usually charge the state maximum. A solo notary may charge $10 to $15 per signature plus travel fees if you request a mobile notarization. Many independent notaries are faster than shipping stores because they have fewer customers waiting.
Mobile notaries come to your home, office, or hospital and charge a base notarization fee plus a travel fee. Total cost is usually $40 to $100 depending on distance and complexity. This option is worth it if you are homebound, have multiple documents, or need notarization outside business hours.
How to compare prices and avoid surprises
Call or email the notary before you arrive with your document. Ask: "What is your fee for a single notarization?" and "Do you charge extra for travel?" or "Do you charge per signature or per document?" Write down the answer. If the notary seems evasive or quotes a price much higher than your state's legal limit, that is a red flag.
Bring the document with you to the first conversation if possible, or describe it clearly. A notary who sees that you have five signatures to notarize can quote you the full cost upfront rather than surprising you at checkout. If you are using a mobile notary, confirm the travel fee and whether there is a minimum charge or a surcharge for evening or weekend service.
Do not assume the cheapest notary is the best. A notary who rushes through the process or does not verify your identity properly creates legal problems later. Choose a notary who takes time to check your ID, ask questions about the document, and explain what they are doing.
What happens if a notary overcharges
If a notary charges more than your state's legal maximum, you can report them to your state's Secretary of State office or the agency that oversees notaries in your state. Most states have a complaint form on their website. Overcharging is a violation of notary law and can result in fines or loss of the notary's license.
You are not required to pay an illegal fee. If a notary quotes a price above the state limit, ask them to reduce it to the legal maximum. If they refuse, walk away and find another notary. Keeping a receipt with the notary's name, location, and the fee charged helps if you need to file a complaint later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I notarize a document online?
Some states allow remote notarization using video conferencing, but not all. The notary must see you on camera, verify your identity, and use digital tools to notarize the document. Fees for remote notarization are usually the same as in-person notarization. Check your state's rules or ask a notary whether they offer this service.
Do I have to pay if the notary refuses to notarize my document?
No. A notary can refuse to notarize a document if you cannot prove your identity, if the document appears fraudulent, or if you seem confused about what you are signing. If a notary refuses, you should not be charged. If they do charge you, that is overcharging and you can report it.
What if I need the document notarized the same day?
Mobile notaries and some independent notaries offer same-day service, though you may pay a rush fee or evening surcharge. Call early in the day and explain your important date. Banks and shipping stores usually cannot accommodate same-day requests unless you arrive before closing, but it is worth asking.
Are there any documents that cost more to notarize?
Power of attorney documents, real estate deeds, and loan documents sometimes cost more because they are longer or require more signatures. Some notaries charge per page rather than per signature for complex documents. Ask the notary about the total cost before you start, especially for legal or financial documents.