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

A notary cannot charge whatever they want. Each state sets a maximum fee that notaries are legally allowed to collect per notarization. In most states, this maximum is between $2 and $15 per signature. Some states cap it lower—New York allows $2 per signature, while Texas allows up to $6. A few states, like California, allow $15 per signature. The notary can charge less than the state maximum, but never more.

The fee covers the notary's time to verify your identity, witness your signature, and complete the notarization document. If you need multiple signatures notarized on the same document, you typically pay per signature, not per document. A will with three signature lines might cost $6 to $45 depending on your state and how many signatures need witnessing.

Some notaries work for banks, credit unions, or law offices and notarize documents for free as a service to customers or clients. Others are self-employed and charge the full state maximum. A few charge less to build their business. Always ask the notary's fee before the appointment—it should be posted clearly or stated over the phone.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state law sets the maximum fee a notary can charge, usually between $2 and $15 per signature.
  • Notaries employed by banks or law offices often notarize for free as a customer service.
  • You pay per signature notarized, not per document, so a multi-signature paper costs more.
  • Ask the notary's fee before your appointment—it must not exceed your state's legal maximum.
  • Travel fees, if the notary comes to you, are separate from the notarization fee and vary widely.

Where to find the fee schedule for your state

Your state's Secretary of State office publishes the maximum notary fees in its notary handbook or on its website. Search "[your state] notary fees" or "[your state] Secretary of State notary" to find the official document. The handbook usually lists the fee per signature, the fee for taking an oath or affirmation, and whether travel fees are allowed.

Some states also allow notaries to charge a separate fee for travel if they come to your home or office. This travel fee is not capped by state law in many states, so it varies widely—anywhere from $10 to $100 or more depending on distance and the notary's location. Always ask whether travel is included in the quoted price.

Why notaries employed by banks charge nothing

Banks, credit unions, and law offices often employ notaries or have notaries on staff. These notaries notarize documents for free as part of their employer's customer service. You do not need to be a customer to use a bank notary—many will notarize for anyone who walks in, though some require you to have an account. Call ahead to confirm their policy and ask whether you need an appointment.

This is the cheapest option if you have access to a bank or credit union. Some employers also have notaries on staff; ask your HR department whether notarization is available to employees at no cost.

Self-employed notaries and how they set their rates

A self-employed notary charges a fee to make a living from the work. Most charge the state maximum because they have overhead—a notary bond (required by law), liability insurance, and the time spent traveling or waiting for clients. Some charge less to attract more business, especially if they are new to the field.

You can find self-employed notaries through online directories like the National Notary Association's search tool, local business listings, or by asking your bank or lawyer for a referral. When you call, ask the fee upfront and whether it includes travel. Some notaries charge a flat rate per document; others charge per signature. Clarify which applies to your situation.

Travel fees and mobile notary services

A mobile notary comes to your home, office, or hospital to notarize documents. This is useful if you are homebound, in the hospital, or need notarization outside business hours. Mobile notaries charge the state's per-signature fee plus a travel fee. The travel fee depends on distance and location—urban notaries may charge $15 to $30 for a short trip, while rural notaries or longer distances can run $50 to $150 or more.

Some mobile notaries charge a minimum fee (for example, $50 total) even for a short, single-signature job. Ask for the total cost before booking, including both the notarization fee and travel. If you need multiple documents notarized, ask whether the travel fee applies once or per document.

What affects the total cost of notarization

The final amount you pay depends on several factors. The number of signatures is the biggest one—a document with five signature lines costs more than one with one. Your state's maximum fee matters; California notaries can charge more per signature than New York notaries. Whether you go to the notary or the notary comes to you affects the total; travel adds cost. The time of day and day of the week can matter too—some mobile notaries charge extra for evening or weekend appointments.

Some notaries also charge a separate fee for taking an oath or affirmation (swearing you are telling the truth), which is different from witnessing a signature. Ask whether this applies to your document. If you need the notarization rushed or on short notice, some notaries charge a premium, though this is not standard practice.

How to avoid overpaying for notarization

Call ahead and ask the fee before you arrive. Do not assume all notaries in your area charge the same amount—they do not. If a notary quotes a price that seems high, call another notary to compare. Check your state's maximum fee online so you know the legal limit; if someone quotes more than that, they are breaking the law.

If you need multiple documents notarized, ask whether you can do them all in one appointment and pay one travel fee instead of multiple fees. If a mobile notary is expensive, consider going to a bank or self-employed notary's office instead—you will save the travel charge. For documents you need notarized regularly (like rental applications), ask whether a discount applies for multiple documents at once.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a notary charge more than the state maximum?

No. State law sets the maximum fee, and a notary who charges more is breaking the law. If you are quoted a price above your state's maximum, report it to your state's Secretary of State office. You can also refuse to pay and file a complaint.

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

No. If the notary makes an error that makes the notarization invalid, you should not pay the full fee. Ask the notary to correct it at no charge. If they refuse, contact your state's Secretary of State office to file a complaint.

What if I need notarization outside business hours?

Mobile notaries often work evenings and weekends. You will pay the standard per-signature fee plus a travel fee, and some charge extra for after-hours service. Call ahead to ask availability and the total cost. Some 24-hour pharmacies and shipping stores also have notaries on staff.

Can I notarize a document myself?

No. A notary cannot notarize a document they signed or have a financial interest in. You must use a different notary. This is a legal requirement to prevent fraud.

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

No. "Notary" and "notary public" mean the same thing. Both refer to someone commissioned by the state to witness signatures and administer oaths. The terms are used interchangeably.