Notary fees vary by state and service type, from $5 to $25 per signature

The cost of getting a document notarized depends on where you live and who performs the service. Most states set a maximum fee that notaries can charge, but the actual price you pay may be lower. A single signature typically costs between $5 and $15. If you need multiple signatures on the same document, or if the notary travels to you, the cost rises.

Some notaries charge per page instead of per signature, and a few charge a flat fee for the entire job. Banks often notarize documents for free if you have an account with them. UPS stores, FedEx locations, and title companies also offer notary services, usually at rates between $10 and $20 per signature.

Key Takeaways

  • State law sets the maximum fee a notary can charge, which ranges from $5 to $25 per signature depending on your state.
  • Your bank may notarize documents for free if you hold an account there, making it the cheapest option to check first.
  • UPS stores, FedEx locations, and title companies offer notary services at standard rates, usually $10 to $20 per signature.
  • Mobile notaries who travel to your home or office charge extra, typically $25 to $50 on top of the per-signature fee.
  • Some notaries charge by the page or document instead of by signature, so ask about their fee structure before you book.

State-by-state fee limits

Each state sets a legal maximum that notaries can charge. California caps the fee at $15 per signature. Texas allows up to $6 per signature. New York permits $2 per signature for acknowledgments and $2.50 for oaths or affirmations. Florida sets the limit at $10 per signature. These maximums mean you should never pay more than the state allows, though many notaries charge less.

Some states do not set a maximum at all, which means notaries in those states can negotiate their own rates. If you live in a state without a cap, call ahead and ask what the notary charges before you visit. The state bar association or secretary of state office can tell you what the limit is in your state.

Where to get a notary without paying extra

Your bank is often the fastest and cheapest option. Most banks offer notary services free to account holders, even if you only have a basic checking account. Call your branch ahead of time to confirm they have a notary on staff and to ask about their hours. Some branches are busier than others, so you may need to wait or come back at a quieter time.

Credit unions often provide the same service at no cost to members. Law offices sometimes notarize documents for clients at no charge. If you are working with a lawyer on a case, ask whether they can notarize your papers as part of the service. Real estate agents may also notarize documents related to a transaction they are handling.

Commercial notary locations and their typical costs

UPS stores charge between $10 and $20 per signature, depending on the location and state. FedEx Office locations offer notary services at similar rates. Both are convenient because they have many locations and extended hours, including some weekend appointments. Call ahead to confirm the notary is available, because not every location has one on staff.

Title companies notarize documents as part of their business and typically charge $10 to $15 per signature. If you are buying or selling property, the title company handling your closing will notarize documents as part of the transaction, with no separate charge. Pharmacy chains like CVS and Walgreens offer notary services at some locations for $5 to $10 per signature, though availability varies widely by store.

Mobile notaries and travel fees

A mobile notary comes to your home, office, or another location you choose. This service costs more because the notary travels to you. Expect to pay the standard per-signature fee plus a travel charge of $25 to $50, depending on distance. If you live far from any notary office or have mobility issues, the extra cost may be worth it.

Mobile notaries are especially useful for signing multiple documents or when you cannot leave your location. Some charge a flat fee for the entire visit instead of per signature, which can save money if you have many signatures. Search online for "mobile notary near me" to find local options and call to ask about their total cost before booking.

What affects the price you pay

The number of signatures matters. If your document has five signatures, you may pay five times the per-signature fee, or the notary may offer a discount for multiple signatures on the same document. Ask about this before you commit. The type of notarization also affects cost — some notaries charge more for certified copies or for documents that require an oath or affirmation rather than just a signature.

Timing can change the price too. If you need notarization outside normal business hours, on a weekend, or on a holiday, expect to pay a rush fee. Same-day or next-day service from a mobile notary may also cost extra. The document itself does not usually matter — a mortgage, power of attorney, or affidavit all cost the same to notarize.

How to find the cheapest option in your area

Start by calling your bank and asking if they notarize for free. If you do not have a bank account or your bank does not have a notary, call your credit union next. These two options are free or nearly free and should be your first choice. If neither works, search online for "notary public near me" to see what commercial options exist in your area.

Call at least two or three notaries and ask their exact fee before you visit. Some charge per signature, others per page, and a few charge a flat rate. Confirm the fee covers everything you need — some notaries charge extra for certified copies or for documents that require an oath. Compare the total cost, not just the per-signature rate, to find the best deal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I notarize a document myself?

No. A notary must be a third party who is not the signer and has no financial interest in the document. You cannot notarize your own signature or a document you stand to gain from. The notary's job is to verify that you signed it willingly and that your identity is real.

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

No. If the notary makes an error — such as misspelling your name, dating the document wrong, or failing to witness your signature — they should correct it at no extra charge. If you have to return for a redo, a reputable notary will not charge you again.

What if I need the document notarized but the notary is closed?

Call a mobile notary service. They work evenings and weekends and will come to you, though you will pay a travel fee on top of the per-signature cost. Some pharmacies and UPS stores also have extended hours. Search online for "24-hour notary" or "weekend notary" in your area to see what is available.

Is there a difference between a notary and a notary public?

No, they are the same thing. A notary public is a person commissioned by the state to witness signatures and verify identity. The terms are used interchangeably. All notaries are notary publics, and all notary publics are notaries.

Will my bank notarize a document from another bank?

Yes. Most banks notarize documents for account holders regardless of what the document is for or which bank issued it. Some banks also notarize for non-customers, though they may charge a fee. Call ahead to ask your bank's policy before you visit.