How much does a notary cost?
How much does a notary cost?
$10 - $15 average cost
Average notary cost
The average cost for a notary is $10 to $15 per notarized document, depending on your location. A notary public witnesses the signing of legal documents. Before agreeing to notarize the document, a notary usually requires the following:
Proof of identity
Proof the person signing is of his or her right mind
Notary fee
The notary will record the proof of identity in a register and prepare a certificate of acknowledgment or just sign and stamp the document with their official seal.
Many banks will notarize your simple documents for free during business hours if you bank with them.
Notary fees
While the basic notary fee is low, the extra charges can add up quickly. Some notaries charge more to notarize loan documents, purchases, second mortgage docs, or reverse mortgage docs.
You may also pay additional fees if the documents require more than one person's signature, or for cancellations, no shows, printing costs, or document delivery.
| Additional Items | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Additional signatory/borrower | $25 each |
| After hours service | Starting at $30 |
| Cancellation within 4 hours | 100% of fee |
| Document printing | $50 per set |
Notary prices by state
Many states set a limit on the fees a notary can charge for services. For example, The American Association of Notaries, a Texan agency, states, “The notary may not charge fees above the fees set forth in Texas notary law for each act."
The most expensive states with set limits on a notary’s fees are California, Florida, Michigan, Montana, New Hampshire, Oregon, South Dakota, and Washington.
Notaries in Alaska, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Puerto Rico, Tennessee, and Maine can set their own fees.
Notaries may incur severe penalties for overcharging. Some states require the notary to pay the overcharged client up to four times the amount charged.
Many states require notaries to post their fees in a prominent location visible to all notary clients.
Notary services
Many legal documents must be signed and witnessed before events can proceed. A notary can witness the signing of these documents and more:
Loan and refinance documents
Wills
Power of Attorney
Deeds
Birth certificate applications
Visa verifications
Find the best notary near you
When searching for a notary near you, follow these tips:
Confirm the notary is licensed by the National Notary Association (NNA) and their license is current.
Choose a notary who is experienced in handling the specific type of document you need notarized.
Look for a notary who is bonded for a larger amount than your state's minimum requirement.
Confirm the notary has Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance, even if your state does not require it.
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.