Notary fees are set by state law, not by individual notaries

The cost to notarize a document depends on which state you're in. Each state sets a maximum fee that notaries are allowed to charge, and most states allow notaries to charge less than that maximum. There is no single national price — a notarization that costs $5 in one state might cost $15 in another.

Some states set a flat fee per signature. Others allow notaries to charge per page, per seal, or per transaction. A few states don't set a maximum at all, which means the notary and customer negotiate the price. If you're having multiple documents notarized at once, ask whether the notary charges per document or per visit — that can change your total cost significantly.

The easiest way to find the exact fee in your state is to call a local notary directly and ask. You can also contact your state's Secretary of State office, which publishes the fee schedule for that state.

Key Takeaways

  • State law sets the maximum fee a notary can charge, which ranges from around $2 to $25 per signature depending on the state.
  • Some notaries charge less than the state maximum, so it's worth calling ahead to compare prices.
  • If a notary charges by the page or transaction rather than by signature, the total cost changes based on how many documents you need notarized.
  • Your state's Secretary of State office publishes the official fee schedule for notaries in that state.
  • Banks, credit unions, and some employers offer notary services to customers or employees, often at no charge.

State-by-state fee ranges

Most states allow notaries to charge between $2 and $15 per signature. A few states set higher maximums — some allow up to $25 per notarization. States with lower fees include Florida ($10 per signature), Texas ($6 per signature), and New York ($2 per signature for the first signature, $2 for each additional signature on the same document). States with higher maximums include California ($15 per signature) and Illinois ($1 to $5 per signature, depending on the type of notarization).

Some states charge by the page instead of by signature. Others charge a flat fee per transaction, regardless of how many pages or signatures are involved. A few states allow notaries to set their own fees with no legal maximum. If you're notarizing documents in a state you're unfamiliar with, the Secretary of State website for that state will have the exact fee schedule.

Where to find a notary and what to expect

Notaries work in many places: banks, law offices, UPS stores, FedEx locations, and independent notary offices. Some are mobile notaries who will come to your home or office for an additional travel fee. Before you go, call ahead to confirm the notary is available, ask about their fee, and check whether they charge extra for travel or for notarizing documents outside normal business hours.

Bring the unsigned document, a valid photo ID, and any other documents the notary asks for. The notary will watch you sign the document, verify your identity, and then explore their seal and signature. The whole process usually takes 5 to 15 minutes per document. Some notaries require an appointment; others take walk-ins.

Free or low-cost notary services

Many banks and credit unions offer notary services to their customers at no charge, even if you don't have a large account. Call your bank's main branch and ask whether a notary is available. Some employers also offer notary services to employees for free through their HR or legal department.

Public libraries in some areas have notaries on staff or can refer you to one nearby. Law schools sometimes offer low-cost notary services through their legal clinics. If you're a member of certain organizations — labor unions, professional associations, or senior centers — check whether they offer notary services to members.

What affects the total cost

The number of documents you're having notarized matters. If you have five documents that each need one signature, and your notary charges $10 per signature, your total is $50. But if the notary charges $10 per transaction instead, you might pay only $10 total. Ask the notary upfront how they calculate the fee.

Travel fees explore if you use a mobile notary who comes to you. These typically range from $25 to $75 depending on distance and time of day. Notarizations outside normal business hours — early morning, evening, or weekend — may cost extra. Some notaries charge more for certain types of notarization, such as loan signings or real estate documents, because they take longer.

How to avoid paying more than necessary

Call three or four notaries in your area and compare their fees before you decide. Ask specifically whether they charge per signature, per page, or per transaction, and whether there are any additional fees for travel, after-hours service, or the type of document you need notarized.

Check whether your bank, employer, or a professional organization you belong to offers free notary services. If you're having multiple documents notarized, ask whether the notary will discount the total if you do them all at once. Some notaries will negotiate on price, especially for larger jobs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a notary refuse to notarize a document?

Yes. A notary can refuse if they believe the signer is not who they claim to be, if the signer appears to be under duress, or if the document appears fraudulent. A notary can also refuse if they have a personal interest in the document or if the signer cannot provide acceptable identification. The notary's refusal does not cost you anything.

Do I have to pay if the notary makes a mistake?

No. If the notary makes an error — such as misspelling a name or explore the seal incorrectly — they should correct it at no additional charge. If the error is serious enough that the document cannot be fixed, ask the notary to explain what went wrong and whether you need to start over with a new copy.

What if I need a document notarized but can't leave my house?

Mobile notaries will come to your home, office, or hospital for a fee. This typically costs $25 to $75 depending on how far away you are and what time of day you need the service. Search online for "mobile notary near me" or ask your bank for a referral.

Is the notary fee the same everywhere in my state?

No. All notaries in your state must charge the same maximum fee set by state law, but many charge less. Some notaries charge $5 per signature when the state maximum is $10. It's worth calling around to find the best price.

Can I notarize a document online?

Some states allow remote online notarization, where you sign the document on video while a notary watches. This is not available in all states and not all notaries offer it. If you're interested in remote notarization, search your state's Secretary of State website or call a local notary to ask whether it's an option where you live.