Notary service costs range from $5 to $25 per signature in most states, though some charge by the page or document instead

The price you pay depends on where you go, what state you're in, and what the notary is witnessing. A bank notary may charge nothing if you have an account there. A mobile notary who travels to your home typically charges $25 to $75 plus travel fees. A notary public working from a UPS Store or similar location usually charges $5 to $15 per signature. Some states set maximum fees by law; others let notaries set their own rates.

The most common pricing model is per signature, not per document. If you're having three signatures notarized on one page, you may pay three times the per-signature fee. A few notaries charge a flat rate per document regardless of how many signatures it contains, so it's worth asking before you commit.

Key Takeaways

  • Bank notaries are often free for account holders, while independent notaries typically charge $5 to $25 per signature depending on location and state.
  • Mobile notaries who come to your home or workplace charge higher rates—usually $25 to $75 plus travel fees—because they cover their own transportation costs.
  • Some states cap the maximum fee a notary can charge by law, while others allow notaries to set their own prices.
  • Pricing is usually per signature, not per document, so a single page with three signatures may cost three times the base fee.
  • Calling ahead to confirm the exact fee and what documents you need to bring saves time and prevents surprises at checkout.

Where to find notaries and what each option costs

Your bank or credit union is often the cheapest option. Most banks offer notary services free to customers with an account in good standing. Call your branch ahead of time to confirm they have a notary on staff and to ask what hours they're available—not every branch has one, and some only notarize during certain times of day.

UPS Store, FedEx Office, and similar shipping centers employ notaries and typically charge $5 to $15 per signature. These locations are usually open longer hours than banks and don't require you to be a customer. Walk-ins are often welcome, though calling ahead to confirm a notary is present can save you a trip.

Law offices sometimes offer notary services to the public, though their rates are usually higher—$15 to $25 per signature—because they're staffed by attorneys or paralegals. If you're already working with a lawyer on the document being notarized, ask whether they'll notarize it as part of your legal work.

Mobile notaries travel to you and charge $25 to $75 for the service plus mileage or a travel fee. This option costs more but works well if you're housebound, have mobility issues, or need notarization outside normal business hours. Search online for "mobile notary" plus your city name to find local options, or ask your real estate agent or title company for a referral.

State-by-state fee caps and variations

Some states set a legal maximum that notaries can charge. For example, California caps notary fees at $15 per signature for most documents, though some exceptions exist. New York allows notaries to charge up to $2 per signature. Texas has no state-wide cap, so notaries can charge whatever they want.

If you're in a state with a fee cap, notaries are legally required to honor it—they cannot charge more. If you're in a state without a cap, the notary's rate is negotiable. Always ask the notary what they charge before you hand over your documents. If the fee seems high, you can shop around; there's no obligation to use the first notary you contact.

Some states also regulate what notaries can charge for travel. A mobile notary in a state with travel-fee caps may charge a flat mileage rate set by law, while one in a state without caps can negotiate. Ask about travel costs upfront if you're using a mobile notary.

What affects the price you'll pay

The type of document matters. Notarizing a straightforward affidavit or power of attorney usually costs the standard per-signature fee. Notarizing a real estate deed, mortgage, or title document may cost more because these documents are more complex and carry higher legal stakes. Some notaries charge extra for loan signings—a specialized service where a notary witnesses the signing of mortgage or refinance paperwork—because these jobs are time-intensive and require specific training.

Location also drives price. Notaries in urban areas and expensive cities typically charge more than those in rural areas. A notary in New York City may charge $20 to $25 per signature, while one in a small town might charge $5 to $10.

Timing affects cost too. If you need notarization outside normal business hours—evenings, weekends, or holidays—expect to pay a premium. Some mobile notaries charge extra for rush jobs or after-hours service. Plan ahead when you can to avoid these surcharges.

What you need to bring to a notary appointment

Bring a valid government-issued photo ID. The notary must verify your identity before witnessing your signature. A driver's license, passport, or state ID card all work. The notary will check that the photo matches your face and that the ID hasn't expired.

Bring the original document you need notarized. Notaries witness signatures on original documents, not copies. If you're having multiple documents notarized, bring all of them so you can handle everything in one visit and avoid multiple fees.

Know what you're signing. The notary will ask you to confirm that you understand the document and that you're signing it of your own free will, without pressure or coercion. If you have questions about what the document means or whether you should sign it, ask before the notary appointment—notaries cannot give legal information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I notarize a document online or by video?

Some states allow remote notarization by video, but not all. If your state permits it, you'll typically use a platform that connects you to a notary via video call. The cost is usually similar to in-person notarization—$5 to $25 per signature—though some remote notaries charge slightly more. Check your state's notary laws or call a local notary to ask whether remote notarization is an option where you live.

Do I have to pay if the notary refuses to notarize my document?

No. A notary can refuse to notarize a document if they believe something is wrong—for example, if your ID is expired, if you appear confused about what you're signing, or if the document looks altered. If a notary refuses, they should not charge you. If they do charge you, you can dispute the fee with their employer or the state notary board.

What if I need multiple documents notarized at once?

Bring them all to one appointment. Most notaries charge per signature, so if you have five documents with one signature each, you'll pay five times the per-signature fee. Some notaries offer a discount for multiple documents, so it's worth asking. Bundling everything into one visit saves you money on travel time and multiple appointment fees.

Can a notary notarize a document they wrote or have a financial interest in?

No. A notary cannot notarize a document if they're a party to it, if they wrote it, or if they have a financial stake in the outcome. This is a conflict of interest. If you encounter a notary who agrees to do this, they're breaking the law. Find a different notary instead.

How long does a notary appointment usually take?

Most appointments take 5 to 15 minutes. The notary will check your ID, ask you to sign the document in front of them, and then add their seal and signature. If you have multiple documents or if the notary has questions about the paperwork, it may take longer. Calling ahead to ask how long the appointment will take helps you plan your schedule.