Notarization costs between $5 and $25 per signature in most states, though some charge by the page or document instead

The price depends on where you go and which state sets the rules for that notary. A notary public working in a bank or title company often charges nothing if you're a customer, while an independent notary or one in a UPS Store or FedEx location typically charges $5 to $15 per signature. A few states cap what notaries can charge — New York allows up to $2 per signature, while California allows up to $15. Other states set no limit at all, so a notary in those places can charge whatever they want.

The most common pricing model charges per signature, not per page. If your document has three places where a notary must witness your signature, you pay three times. Some notaries charge a flat fee for the whole document instead, which can be cheaper if you have many signatures on one page, or more expensive if you have just one signature on a long document.

Key Takeaways

  • Most notaries charge $5 to $15 per signature, though your state may set a lower cap or allow higher fees.
  • Banks and credit unions often notarize for free if you hold an account with them.
  • UPS Store, FedEx, and pharmacy notaries typically charge $5 to $10 per signature.
  • Independent notaries may charge more than retail locations, especially if they travel to you or work outside business hours.
  • Ask the notary their fee before they begin work, since prices vary widely even within the same city.

Where to get a document notarized and what each option costs

A bank or credit union is the cheapest option if you have an account there — most offer notarization free to members. Call ahead to confirm they have a notary on staff and to book an appointment, since not every branch has one. Bring your ID and the unsigned document.

UPS Store, FedEx Office, and Walgreens all employ notaries and charge $5 to $10 per signature in most locations. Prices vary by store and by state, so call first. These places are open longer hours than banks and don't require you to be a customer, which makes them convenient for evenings and weekends.

Independent notaries — people who work for themselves — typically charge $10 to $25 per signature. Many will travel to your home or office for an extra fee, usually $25 to $50 on top of the notarization cost. This option costs more but saves you time if you're busy or have mobility issues.

Online notarization is now legal in most states and costs $25 to $50 per signature. You use a video call with a notary who watches you sign the document. This works for many documents but not all — some legal papers still require a notary to be physically present. Check your document's requirements before paying for an online notary.

State-by-state fee caps and what they mean for your cost

A handful of states set a maximum fee that notaries can charge. New York caps fees at $2 per signature, making it one of the cheapest places to get notarized. California allows up to $15 per signature. Florida allows up to $10. Most other states set no cap, which means a notary can charge whatever the market will bear.

Even in states with a cap, you may pay less. A bank notary in New York might charge $0 to $2, while an independent notary might charge the full $2 allowed. In states with no cap, prices can swing from $5 at a UPS Store to $25 or more from an independent notary in the same city.

Check your state's notary board website to learn the fee cap in your area. The Secretary of State office for your state usually maintains this information, though the website layout varies by state. Knowing the cap helps you spot a notary who is overcharging.

Extra charges that add to the base notarization fee

Travel fees are the most common add-on. If a notary comes to your home, office, or hospital, expect to pay $25 to $75 on top of the per-signature fee. Some notaries charge by the mile instead, which can be cheaper or more expensive depending on distance.

After-hours notarization — evenings, weekends, or holidays — may cost extra. Independent notaries sometimes charge 50% more for work outside their normal hours. Retail notaries like UPS Store usually charge the same rate regardless of time, since they're already staffed.

Certified copies of the notarized document cost extra. If you need the notary to make and certify a photocopy, that's typically $1 to $3 per page on top of the notarization fee.

How to find a notary and confirm the price before you pay

Call ahead. Do not show up with your document and assume the price you heard about applies. Notary fees vary by location, and a UPS Store in one city may charge differently than one ten miles away.

Ask three things: the fee per signature, whether they charge by the page or document instead, and any travel or after-hours fees. Write down the answer so you have it in writing if there's a dispute later.

Search "notary near me" in Google Maps to find nearby options. Filter by rating and read recent reviews — notaries with low ratings often have complaints about fees or professionalism. Your bank's website usually lists which branches have notaries on staff.

The National Notary Association maintains a notary search tool on their website, though it's not complete in every state. It can point you toward notaries in your area, but always call to confirm they're still in business and to ask about fees.

What affects the total cost of notarization

The number of signatures is the biggest cost driver. A straightforward one-page document with one signature costs less than a multi-page contract with five places to sign. Count the signature lines before you call for a quote.

The type of document can matter. A standard affidavit or power of attorney is straightforward and costs the base rate. A document that requires the notary to verify your identity in an unusual way, or one that involves witnessing a thumbprint or oath, may cost more.

Your location affects price. Rural areas often have fewer notaries, which can drive prices up. Urban areas have more competition, which can drive prices down. A notary in a small town may charge $15 per signature while one in a major city charges $5.

Timing matters if you need the work done outside business hours. A notary who comes to your home on a Sunday morning will charge more than one you visit during their regular office hours on a Tuesday.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I notarize a document myself?

No. A notary cannot notarize a document they signed or have a financial interest in. You must use a different notary. This rule exists to prevent fraud.

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 you can't prove your identity, or if the document is illegal. You should not be charged if the notary declines the work. If they charge you anyway, report it to your state's Secretary of State office.

What if I need notarization but can't afford the fee?

Some legal aid organizations and law school clinics offer free notarization to low-income people. Call your local legal aid office to ask. Your bank may also notarize for free if you're a member, even if you have limited funds.

Is online notarization cheaper than in-person?

Usually not. Online notarization costs $25 to $50 per signature, which is more than most in-person notaries charge. The benefit is convenience and speed, not cost. Use it if you can't reach a notary in person, not to save money.

Do I need to tip a notary?

No. Tipping is not expected or required. You pay the notarization fee, and that's the end of the transaction. If a notary provides exceptional service, a small tip is appreciated but never obligatory.