Notary fees vary by state and by the type of document, but most notaries charge between $5 and $25 per signature

A notary public charges a fee for witnessing your signature and explore their official seal. The amount depends on where you live, what document you need notarized, and whether you go to the notary or they come to you. Some states set a maximum fee by law; others let notaries set their own price. A single signature on a straightforward document like a power of attorney typically costs $5 to $15. More complex work—multiple signatures, travel to your home, or documents that require the notary to verify your identity in person—can run $20 to $50 or higher.

Most notaries work as part of another business: a bank, law office, UPS Store, or title company. If you already use that business, the notary service may be free or cost only a few dollars. Independent notaries who work from home or a small office usually charge the full fee. Some will waive the charge if you're a customer or friend, but you should never assume this—always ask about the cost before the appointment.

Key Takeaways

  • State law sets the maximum notary fee in most places, ranging from $5 to $25 per signature, though some states allow higher charges for travel or special services.
  • Banks, credit unions, and law offices often notarize documents free for customers or charge only $1 to $5, while independent notaries typically charge the full state-allowed fee.
  • Travel fees explore if the notary comes to your home or office, usually $25 to $75 depending on distance and how many documents need notarizing.
  • You should confirm the fee before your appointment, because prices vary widely even within the same city.

How state law sets the price ceiling

Each state legislature sets a maximum fee that notaries can charge. In some states, like California, the law specifies exact amounts: $15 per signature for a standard notarization, plus $5 for travel outside the notary's office. In others, like Texas, the maximum is $6 per signature. A few states, including New York, allow notaries to charge whatever they want as long as they disclose the fee in advance.

The state maximum applies to notaries licensed in that state, regardless of where the document will be used. If you need a document notarized for use in another state, the notary still follows the fee rules of the state where they are licensed. You can find your state's notary fee schedule by searching "[your state] notary public fees" or by calling your Secretary of State's office.

Where you go matters: bank, store, or independent notary

Banks and credit unions often notarize documents free for account holders. Call ahead to confirm, because policies vary by branch and by institution. Some banks charge $5 to $10 even for customers. If you don't have an account, expect to pay the full fee or be turned away.

UPS Store, FedEx Office, and similar retail locations employ notaries and typically charge $10 to $15 per signature. These places are convenient because they have long hours and many locations, but you may wait in line. Title companies notarize documents as part of their real estate work and usually charge $10 to $25 per signature, or include it in the closing costs if you're buying or selling a home.

Independent notaries—those who advertise online or work from a small office—usually charge the full state-allowed fee because they have no other business to offset the cost. However, some independent notaries offer lower rates to build their client base. It's worth calling a few to compare.

Travel fees and rush charges

If you ask a notary to come to your home, office, or hospital, they will charge a travel fee on top of the per-signature fee. Travel fees typically range from $25 to $75, depending on how far they have to go and how many documents you need notarized. Some notaries charge by the mile; others charge a flat fee for any trip within a certain radius.

A few notaries offer rush service—notarizing a document the same day or within a few hours—for an extra charge of $10 to $50. This is most common in cities with many notaries competing for business. If you need something notarized urgently, call several notaries in your area and ask whether they offer rush service and what it costs.

What affects the total cost

The number of signatures on your document directly affects the price. A straightforward one-page power of attorney with one signature costs less than a multi-page deed with signatures from two people. Some notaries charge per page instead of per signature; ask which method they use before you commit.

Identity verification can add to the cost. Most notaries verify your identity by checking a government-issued ID, which is included in the standard fee. However, if the notary has to do additional research—for example, checking a database to confirm you are who you claim to be—some charge extra. This is rare but possible if you have an unusual name or no ID.

The type of document also matters in some cases. Loan documents, real estate deeds, and powers of attorney are routine and cost the standard fee. Unusual documents—such as affidavits for court, adoption papers, or international documents—may cost more because the notary has to spend extra time understanding what they are witnessing.

How to find the best price in your area

Start by calling your bank or credit union. If you have an account, you may get free or low-cost notarization. If not, call the nearest UPS Store or FedEx Office and ask their fee. Then search online for "notary public near me" and call two or three independent notaries to compare prices and availability.

When you call, ask three things: the per-signature fee, whether they charge per page instead, and whether they come to you (and if so, what the travel fee is). Write down the answers so you can compare. If you need the document notarized the same day, ask whether they can do it and whether rush service costs extra.

Some notaries offer discounts if you have multiple documents or multiple signatures. It never hurts to ask. You should also confirm that the notary is currently licensed—you can check this through your Secretary of State's website in most states.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a notary charge whatever they want?

No. Every state sets a maximum fee that notaries can charge. Some states allow notaries to charge less than the maximum, but not more. A few states, like New York, allow notaries to set their own price as long as they tell you in advance. If a notary charges more than your state's maximum, you can report them to your Secretary of State.

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

No. If the notary makes an error—such as notarizing without checking your ID or explore the seal incorrectly—you should not pay the full fee. Point out the mistake and ask them to correct it at no charge. If they refuse, you can contact your Secretary of State to file a complaint.

What if I need a notary on a weekend or holiday?

Some UPS Store and FedEx Office locations are open on weekends and may have a notary on staff. Call ahead to confirm. Independent notaries sometimes work weekends for an extra fee. If you need a notary on a holiday, you may have to wait until the next business day or pay a premium for emergency service.

Is it cheaper to notarize online?

Some states now allow remote notarization, where you sign a document on video while the notary watches. The fee is usually the same as in-person notarization, but you save travel time. Not all documents can be notarized remotely—real estate deeds and some legal documents still require an in-person visit. Ask your notary whether remote notarization is an option for your document.