Notary fees vary by state and by where you go, but most notarizations cost between $2 and $15 per signature

The price depends on three things: your state's legal limit, the notary's location (bank, law office, or independent), and how many signatures need notarizing. A single signature at a bank notary is often free if you have an account there. The same signature at a mobile notary who comes to your home might cost $25 to $50 plus travel fees. There is no national price—each state sets its own ceiling, and notaries can charge less than that limit but not more.

If you need multiple signatures on the same document, expect to pay per signature, not per document. A deed with three signatures costs three times the per-signature fee. Some notaries offer discounts for bulk work, but you have to ask.

Key Takeaways

  • Most states allow notaries to charge between $2 and $15 per signature, though some states cap it lower or higher.
  • Bank notaries often notarize for free if you maintain an account there, making them the cheapest option if you may have access to.
  • Mobile notaries who travel to you typically charge $25 to $50 plus mileage, so they cost more but save you time.
  • You pay per signature, not per document, so a form with three signature lines costs three times the base fee.
  • Calling ahead to ask the exact fee and what documents you need to bring prevents surprises and wasted trips.

State-by-state fee limits

Your state's law sets the maximum a notary can charge. Some states are strict about this; others allow notaries more flexibility. A few examples: California caps fees at $15 per signature for most notarizations. New York allows up to $2 per signature for most work but permits higher fees for certain specialized documents. Texas has no statewide cap, so fees vary widely. Florida allows $10 per signature. If you live in a state with a low cap, you will pay less even at a private notary office.

To find your state's limit, search "[your state] notary public fee" or call your state's Secretary of State office. The answer usually appears in the state's notary handbook or administrative code. Knowing the legal limit protects you from overcharging.

Where to get a notarization and what each costs

Bank notaries are often free for account holders. Most major banks—Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and regional banks—offer notary services to customers at no charge. Non-customers may pay $5 to $10 per signature. Hours are limited to business hours, and you may need an appointment. Call your branch ahead of time; not every branch has a notary on staff.

Law offices typically charge $10 to $25 per signature, sometimes more if the document is complex or requires legal review. They are reliable and knowledgeable but more expensive than banks. Use a law office if the document is unusual or you need information about what needs notarizing.

Independent notaries working from home offices or shared spaces usually charge $5 to $15 per signature. You can find them through online directories, local classifieds, or by calling your county clerk's office. Prices and hours vary widely, so call first.

Mobile notaries come to your home, office, or hospital. They charge $25 to $75 per signature plus travel fees (often $0.50 to $1 per mile, or a flat $15 to $50 fee). Use a mobile notary when you cannot leave home, are in a hospital or care facility, or need notarization outside business hours. Many offer evening and weekend appointments.

Online notaries conduct notarizations by video call. Fees range from $25 to $50 per signature. You need a camera, internet connection, and a government ID. Some states do not yet recognize remote notarization, so check your state's rules first. This option is fastest if you live far from any notary.

What affects the final cost

The number of signatures is the biggest variable. A straightforward power of attorney with one signature costs less than a deed with three signatures or a loan document with five. Count the signature lines before you go, and ask the notary to quote the total fee.

Travel adds cost. If a mobile notary has to drive 30 miles to reach you, the mileage fee alone can double the price. Some mobile notaries charge a flat trip fee instead of mileage, which may be cheaper if you are close by. Ask for the total before booking.

Timing matters for mobile and online notaries. Rush appointments (same-day or evening) sometimes cost extra. Booking a few days ahead usually keeps the price at the standard rate.

Document complexity rarely changes the per-signature fee, but some notaries charge extra for documents they have never seen before or that require them to research state law. Ask upfront if the document is unusual.

How to find the cheapest option

Start with your bank. If you have an account, call and ask whether they offer free notary services and whether you need an appointment. This takes two minutes and often solves the problem at no cost.

If your bank does not have a notary or you do not bank there, call your county clerk's office. They keep a list of notaries in your area and can tell you typical local fees. Some clerk offices also offer notary services themselves, usually at the state's legal maximum or lower.

For mobile or online notaries, search "[your city] mobile notary" or "[your state] online notary" and compare three to five options. Ask each one for the total cost including all fees. Do not book the first one you find; a ten-minute comparison often saves $20 or more.

If cost is tight, ask the notary whether they offer discounts for multiple signatures or bulk documents. Some do, and you will not know unless you ask.

What to bring and how to avoid extra charges

Bring a government-issued photo ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The notary must see it to verify your identity. Bring the original document, not a copy. Notaries notarize originals, and some documents (like deeds or powers of attorney) must be notarized in their original form to be legally valid.

Know exactly which pages and signature lines need notarizing. If you are unsure, ask the notary before the appointment. Arriving unprepared and asking the notary to figure it out wastes time and may result in an extra charge.

Bring cash or a card. Some notaries take only cash, especially independent and mobile ones. Confirm payment method when you book.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I notarize a document myself?

No. A notary must be a third party with no financial interest in the document. You cannot notarize your own signature, and a family member cannot notarize yours. The notary's job is to verify that you signed it willingly and that your ID matches your name.

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

No. A notary can refuse if your ID does not match the document, if you appear confused or coerced, or if the document is illegal. If a notary refuses, you should not be charged. If they do charge you, ask why and request a refund.

What if I need the notarization done the same day?

Mobile and online notaries often offer same-day appointments, though you may pay a rush fee of $10 to $25 extra. Call by mid-morning to request a same-day slot. Banks and law offices may also fit you in if you call early, but do not count on it.

Are online notarizations legal everywhere?

Most states now allow remote notarization, but rules vary. Some states require the notary to be licensed in that state; others accept notaries from any state. Check your state's Secretary of State website or call your county clerk to confirm whether your document can be notarized online.

What if the notary charges more than my state's legal limit?

Report it to your state's Secretary of State office or notary licensing board. Overcharging is a violation and can result in the notary losing their license. You can also ask the notary to refund the overcharge before you leave.