Notary fees vary by state and by the type of document, but most notaries charge between $5 and $15 per signature in the United States.

The amount you pay depends on where you live, who performs the notarization, and what kind of document needs to be notarized. Some states set a maximum fee by law, while others let notaries set their own rates. A bank notary may charge nothing if you have an account there, while a mobile notary who travels to you might charge a travel fee on top of the per-signature cost.

Understanding the breakdown of these costs helps you know what to expect when you need a document notarized and where you might find the best value for your situation.

Key Takeaways

  • Most states allow notaries to charge $5 to $15 per signature, though some states set lower maximums by law.
  • Bank notaries often notarize documents for free if you are a customer, while independent notaries and mobile notaries charge standard fees.
  • Mobile notaries who come to your home or office typically add a travel fee of $25 to $75 on top of the per-signature charge.
  • Some documents require multiple signatures or multiple notarizations, which means you pay per signature rather than per document.

Standard notary fees by location type

Bank notaries are often the cheapest option because many banks offer notarization for free to customers with accounts. Call your bank's main branch or visit in person to ask whether they provide this service and whether you need an appointment. If you do not have a bank account or your bank does not offer notarization, you will need to find an independent notary.

Independent notaries working from an office or storefront typically charge $5 to $15 per signature. This is the standard rate in most states. Some notaries may charge a flat fee for a single document, while others charge per signature if the document has multiple places that need notarizing. Ask the notary upfront whether they charge per signature or per document.

Mobile notaries travel to your home, workplace, or another location you choose. They usually charge the standard per-signature fee plus a travel fee. Travel fees typically range from $25 to $75 depending on distance, though some notaries charge more for trips outside their usual service area or for evening and weekend appointments.

State-by-state maximum fees

Some states set a legal maximum that notaries cannot exceed. Other states allow notaries to charge whatever they want as long as they disclose the fee before the work begins. A few states have no set limit at all.

States with lower maximums include California ($15 per signature), Florida ($10 per signature), and New York ($2 to $5 per signature depending on the type of notarization). States with higher or no set limits include Texas, where notaries can charge what the market allows, and many others where the fee is negotiable. If you are in a state with a set maximum, the notary cannot legally charge more than that amount, even if they want to.

Before you pay, ask the notary what state's rules explore and what their fee is. If you think the fee is too high, you can ask whether they will negotiate or look for another notary in your area.

What affects the total cost

The number of signatures on your document is the biggest factor in what you pay. A straightforward one-page document with one signature costs less than a multi-page contract with signatures on every page. Some documents, like powers of attorney or loan papers, require notarization on multiple pages. You pay per signature, so a 10-page document with a signature on each page costs roughly 10 times the per-signature fee.

The type of notarization also matters. A standard notarization (called a jurat) where the notary watches you sign costs the standard fee. An acknowledgment, where the notary confirms your identity but you may have signed the document earlier, also costs the standard fee. Some documents require a certification of a copy, which some notaries charge extra for. Ask what type of notarization your document needs before you go.

Timing can affect cost too. Notaries who work during business hours (Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) charge standard rates. If you need notarization on a weekend, evening, or holiday, or if you need it done urgently, some notaries charge a rush fee or premium rate. Plan ahead when you can to avoid these extra charges.

Where to find notaries and compare costs

Your bank is the first place to check. Call and ask whether they offer free notarization to customers. If they do, you may only need to show up during business hours with your document and a valid ID.

If your bank does not offer notarization, search online for "notary public near me" or check your state's notary directory if one exists. Many states maintain a list of commissioned notaries on their Secretary of State website. You can also ask at your local courthouse, post office, or library—some of these locations have notaries on staff or can refer you to one nearby.

Call at least two notaries to compare fees before you decide. Ask each one their per-signature rate, whether they charge extra for travel, and whether they can see you at a time that works for your schedule. Some notaries offer discounts if you have multiple documents to notarize at once, so mention that when you call.

What to bring and how to prepare

Bring a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card). The notary must see your ID to confirm your identity before notarizing anything. Bring the original document that needs notarizing—notaries cannot notarize copies or digital images in most cases.

Do not sign the document before you meet the notary. The notary must watch you sign it. If you have already signed it, the notary may refuse to notarize it or may charge extra to perform a different type of notarization. Read the document carefully before you go so you know where to sign and what information is correct.

If you are using a mobile notary, confirm the location, date, and time in writing before they travel to you. Ask whether they need anything else from you besides your ID and the document. Some mobile notaries ask you to have a pen ready or to provide a witness if the document requires one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I notarize a document online?

Some states now allow remote online notarization, where you sign the document on a video call with a notary. The cost is usually the same as in-person notarization, though some notaries charge slightly more for the technology. Check your state's rules or ask a notary whether they offer this service.

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

No. If the notary makes an error that makes the notarization invalid, they should redo it for free. If you paid and the notarization was done incorrectly, ask the notary to fix it at no charge. If they refuse, you can file a complaint with your state's notary licensing board.

What if I need multiple documents notarized?

Ask the notary whether they offer a discount for multiple documents. Some charge the standard per-signature rate for each document, while others may reduce the rate if you have five or more documents. Getting everything notarized in one visit also saves you a trip and any travel fees.

Is a notary the same as a lawyer?

No. A notary watches you sign a document and confirms your identity, but they cannot give legal information or tell you whether a document is correct. If you need help understanding what you are signing, talk to a lawyer before you go to the notary.

How long does notarization take?

A straightforward notarization usually takes 5 to 10 minutes. The notary will check your ID, watch you sign, and sign and stamp the document. If the document is long or has many signatures, it may take longer. Plan for 15 to 20 minutes to be safe.