Notary fees vary by state and by the type of document, but most notaries charge between $5 and $20 per signature

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 single signature on a standard document typically costs $5 to $15 in most states, though some states permit higher fees for specialized work like loan signings or travel.

The actual cost depends on three things: where you live, how many signatures need notarizing, and what type of document it is. A straightforward power of attorney with one signature will cost less than a mortgage closing with multiple pages and signatures. Some notaries charge a travel fee if you ask them to come to your home or office instead of meeting at their location.

Key Takeaways

  • Most states cap notary fees between $5 and $20 per signature, though the actual charge may be lower.
  • Mortgage closings and loan signings often cost more than standard notarizations because they involve multiple documents and signatures.
  • You can find the maximum legal fee for your state by contacting your Secretary of State's office or checking their website.
  • Banks, credit unions, and some employers offer notary services to customers or employees at no charge or reduced cost.
  • Travel fees explore if you request the notary to meet you outside their regular location, typically ranging from $10 to $50.

State-by-state fee limits

State maximums range widely. California caps notary fees at $15 per signature for most documents, but allows up to $30 for certain loan-related signings. Texas permits up to $6 per signature. New York allows $2 per signature for most documents but permits higher fees for specific services. Florida sets a $10 maximum per signature.

These are the legal ceilings—notaries can charge less. Some charge a flat rate for straightforward documents ($10 total, regardless of signature count) while others charge per signature. To find your state's limit, search "[your state] notary public fees" or contact your state's Secretary of State office. Many states publish this information on their official website.

What costs more: loan signings and mortgage closings

A mortgage closing or loan signing is not a single notarization—it is a package of services. The notary may witness multiple signatures across 20 to 40 pages, verify the signer's identity carefully, and manage the paperwork flow. Many states allow notaries to charge a separate fee for this type of work, often $75 to $200 or more, because it requires more time and informed than a standard notarization.

Some title companies or lenders hire specialized signing agents (notaries trained specifically for closings) and pay them directly, so you may not see a separate notary fee on your closing statement. Other times the fee appears as a line item. Ask your lender or title company in advance what notary costs are included in your closing estimate.

Free or low-cost notary options

Many banks and credit unions offer notary services free to account holders. Call your bank's main branch or check their website—most have at least one notary on staff during business hours. Some employers offer the service to employees at no charge through their HR or legal department.

UPS Store locations and FedEx Office locations employ notaries and charge standard fees (usually $10 to $15 per signature). Walmart and some pharmacy chains also have notaries available. Public libraries in some areas offer free notarization or can direct you to a low-cost option. Call ahead to confirm availability and hours, since not every location has a notary present every day.

Travel fees and rush charges

If you ask a notary to travel to your home, office, or hospital, expect a travel fee on top of the per-signature charge. This typically ranges from $10 to $50 depending on distance and the notary's location. Some notaries charge a flat rate for travel within a certain radius and a higher rate beyond that.

Rush or same-day notarization is not always available, but when it is, some notaries charge extra. This is not regulated by most states, so the fee is negotiable. Ask the notary upfront what they charge for expedited service before you commit.

How to find a notary and confirm the cost

Search online for "notary public near me" to find local options. Call or email at least two notaries to ask their fee before you book. Be specific about what you need: the number of documents, the number of signatures, and whether you need them to travel to you. A notary can then give you an accurate quote.

If you are using a bank or employer notary, ask whether they charge a fee and whether they have any restrictions (for example, some will not notarize documents related to their own services). Bring a valid government-issued photo ID—the notary will need to see it before notarizing anything. Bring the unsigned document itself; the notary cannot notarize a copy or a document you describe over the phone.

What affects the final bill

The total cost depends on how many signatures need notarizing, not how many pages the document has. A 50-page contract with one signature costs the same as a one-page letter with one signature in most cases. If the document has multiple signers or multiple signature lines, each one may be charged separately.

Some notaries offer a discount if you have multiple documents to notarize at once. Others charge a minimum fee (for example, $15 minimum even if the per-signature rate would be less). Ask about this when you call. If you are notarizing documents for a business or legal matter, keep the receipt—you may be able to deduct the cost as a business expense.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I notarize a document myself?

No. A notary cannot notarize a document they are signing or have a financial interest in. You must use a different notary. This rule exists to prevent fraud and may support the notarization is impartial.

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

No. A notary can refuse to notarize a document if they suspect fraud, if the signer cannot prove their identity, or if the document appears altered. If they refuse, you should not be charged. If they do charge you, ask for an explanation and contact your state's Secretary of State office to report the issue.

What if I need a notarized copy of a document I already have?

A notary can certify that a copy is a true copy of an original document you show them. This is called a certified copy and is charged the same way as a standard notarization—per signature or per document, depending on the notary's fee structure. Bring both the original and the copy you want certified.

Are online notary services cheaper?

Online notaries typically charge $25 to $50 per signature because they use video conferencing and specialized software. This is usually more expensive than an in-person notary, but it may be worth it if no notary is available near you or you need service outside regular business hours. Check whether your document can be notarized online—some states restrict this for certain document types.

Will my health insurance or government program cover notary costs?

No. Notary fees are not covered by insurance or government programs. They are a straightforward out-of-pocket cost, though they are usually modest—typically under $30 for a standard document.