Notarization fees range from $5 to $25 per signature in most states, though some charge by the page or document instead
The cost depends on where you get the notarization done and which state sets the rules for that notary. A notary public working in a bank or credit union often charges nothing if you have an account there. A notary in a UPS Store, FedEx Office, or independent notary service typically charges $5 to $15 per signature. Some states cap what notaries can charge — others do not set a limit at all, so a notary can charge more if they choose.
The fee is usually per signature, not per document. If a single document has three places where a notary's seal is needed, you pay three times. Some notaries charge a flat fee per document instead, which may be cheaper if the document has many signatures or cheaper if it has only one — ask before you hand over the papers.
Key Takeaways
- Bank and credit union notaries are often free for account holders, making them the lowest-cost option if you have a relationship with the institution.
- Independent notaries and those in retail locations typically charge $5 to $15 per signature, though some states allow higher fees.
- Fees are usually charged per signature, not per document, so a document with multiple signature lines will cost more.
- Some notaries charge a flat fee per document instead of per signature — always ask the fee structure before the notarization begins.
- A few states set maximum fees by law, while others allow notaries to set their own rates, so costs vary by location.
Where to find notaries and what each location typically charges
Banks and credit unions are the cheapest option if you are a customer. Most offer notarization free or for a small fee — call ahead to confirm, because policies vary by branch and institution. You do not need to have a large account balance; many banks notarize for any account holder, even if the account is inactive.
UPS Store and FedEx Office locations have notaries on staff at most branches. Fees typically run $5 to $10 per signature. Call the location nearest you to confirm they have a notary available and ask their exact fee before you arrive, because rates can differ between franchises.
Law offices sometimes notarize documents for clients at no charge as part of their service. If you are working with a lawyer on a matter, ask whether notarization is included. If you need a notary and have no lawyer, calling a local law office to ask for a referral to an independent notary is often faster than searching online.
Independent notaries advertise online and through local directories. Fees range from $5 to $25 per signature depending on the notary and the state. Some offer mobile notary services — they come to your home or workplace — which may add a travel fee of $10 to $50 on top of the per-signature charge.
State-by-state fee limits and how they affect what you pay
Some states set a maximum fee that notaries are allowed to charge. For example, California caps notary fees at $15 per signature for most documents, and Florida sets a maximum of $10. Other states — including Texas, New York, and many others — do not set a limit, so notaries can charge whatever they negotiate with the customer.
Even in states with a cap, the actual fee you pay may be lower. A notary can charge less than the maximum, and many do. Always ask the fee upfront, especially if you are using an independent notary or a mobile service. If a notary quotes a price that seems high, you can shop around — there is no rule requiring you to use the first notary you contact.
To find your state's fee rules, search "[your state] notary public maximum fees" or contact your state's Secretary of State office. The Secretary of State maintains the list of licensed notaries in most states and can tell you whether fees are capped in your area.
Additional charges beyond the per-signature fee
Some notaries charge extra for services beyond the basic notarization. A travel fee applies if the notary comes to you — typically $10 to $50 depending on distance. An after-hours fee may explore if you need notarization outside normal business hours. A rush fee can explore if you need the work done the same day or within a few hours.
Certified copies — where a notary makes a copy of a document and certifies that it matches the original — sometimes cost more than a straightforward notarization. Ask whether your document needs a certified copy or just a notarized signature. The difference can save you money.
If you are using a mobile notary service, confirm the total cost before they arrive. Ask whether the travel fee is a flat rate or charged by the mile, and whether there is a minimum charge if you live close by. Some mobile notaries charge a minimum of $50 to $75 regardless of distance.
How to keep notarization costs down
Start with your bank or credit union if you have an account. Free or low-cost notarization is one of the easiest benefits to use, and you avoid travel time and extra fees. If your bank does not offer notarization or you do not have an account, call ahead to three or four independent notaries and compare their fees before you commit.
Bring all documents that need notarizing in one visit. Notaries sometimes offer a discount if you have multiple documents, though this is not may provide. Asking costs nothing, and you save time by handling everything at once.
Avoid mobile notaries unless you truly cannot travel to a notary's office. The convenience comes at a price — travel fees and minimum charges can double or triple the cost. If you are on a tight budget, a trip to a UPS Store or your bank is usually cheaper.
Check whether the document you are having notarized actually requires notarization. Some documents — like affidavits or powers of attorney — must be notarized by law. Others are notarized by choice for extra proof of authenticity. If notarization is optional and you are paying out of pocket, you can skip it and save the fee.
What happens if you cannot afford the notarization fee
Some legal aid organizations and community nonprofits offer free or low-cost notarization to people with limited income. Search "[your city] free notary services" or contact your local legal aid office to ask whether they provide this service. Availability varies widely by location.
If you are notarizing a document for a court case, court filing, or government benefit, ask the court or agency whether they have a notary on staff or can refer you to a free service. Some courts will notarize documents related to cases they are handling.
Religious organizations, community centers, and libraries sometimes have notaries available at low or no cost. Call ahead to ask, because not all locations offer this service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a notary charge different fees for different types of documents?
Yes. Some notaries charge more for certified copies than for straightforward notarizations, and some charge extra for documents they consider complex or time-consuming. Ask about the specific fee for your document type before the notarization begins.
Do I have to pay if the notary refuses to notarize my document?
No. A notary can refuse to notarize a document if it appears fraudulent, if the signer cannot prove their identity, or if the signer does not appear to understand what they are signing. You should not be charged if the notarization does not happen. If a notary charges you anyway, you can dispute the charge with your credit card or bank.
Is it cheaper to notarize online?
Online notarization services charge $25 to $50 per signature and require a video call with a notary. This is usually more expensive than in-person notarization, but some documents — like real estate transactions in certain states — must be notarized in person anyway. Check whether your document can be notarized online before paying for that service.
What if I need multiple documents notarized on the same day?
Bring them all to one notary at the same time. Some notaries offer a small discount for multiple documents, though you should ask first. Even without a discount, you save time and travel costs by handling everything in one visit.
Can I notarize a document myself?
No. A notary public is a third party — you cannot notarize your own documents. The whole point of notarization is that an independent person verifies your identity and confirms you signed willingly. You must use a different notary.