If you’ve ever needed a document notarized, you’ve probably noticed the small but sometimes confusing fees involved. While notarization might seem simple—a notary witnesses your signature and applies a seal—the costs can vary widely depending on location, document type, and service method. Understanding notary fees can save you money, prevent surprises, and ensure you get the service you need without paying extra.

This guide provides a comprehensive look at notary fees, including:

• How notary fees are set

• Typical costs by document type

• Additional or hidden fees

• Tips to save money

• Factors affecting fees

• Remote notarization costs

By the end, you’ll know exactly what to expect before booking your notarization appointment.

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1. What Are Notary Fees?

Notary fees are payments made to a licensed notary public for performing official duties, including:

• Witnessing signatures

• Verifying identity

• Administering oaths or affirmations

• Certifying copies of documents

Fees are regulated in many countries and U.S. states, meaning a notary cannot charge more than the legal maximum, although some jurisdictions allow additional service or travel fees.

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2. How Notary Fees Are Calculated

Notary fees can vary based on:

2.1 Number of Signatures

Some documents require multiple signatures, each of which may incur a separate fee.

• Single signature: base fee

• Multiple signers: fee per signature

• Each notarized page may also count separately

2.2 Document Type

Certain documents are more complex and may cost more:

• Real estate deeds: higher fees

• Powers of attorney: mid-range fees

• Simple affidavits: lower fees

2.3 Location

• Urban areas may charge more due to demand

• Rural areas may charge less

• Different countries have varying official maximums

2.4 Travel Fees

Mobile notaries who visit your location may charge extra, depending on:

• Distance

• Urgency

• Vehicle or transportation costs

2.5 Remote Online Notarization

Fees for RON may include:

• Platform usage fees

• Identity verification fees

• Digital certificate fees

Some RON services offer flat fees, while others charge per signature or document.

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3. Typical Notary Fee Ranges

3.1 United States

• Acknowledgment: $5–$15 per signature

• Jurat: $5–$15 per signature

• Certified copy of document: $5–$15

• Real estate documents: $50–$200

• Travel fees (mobile notary): $20–$100 extra

• RON: $25–$100 per document

3.2 United Kingdom

• £5–£10 per signature for standard documents

• Higher for commercial or complex documents

3.3 Canada

• CAD $10–$20 per signature

• Additional charges for travel or administrative fees

3.4 Other Countries

Fees vary widely depending on government regulations and notary licensing.

Tip: Always check local laws before paying to avoid overcharging.

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4. Common Additional Fees

Besides the basic notarization fee, you may encounter:

4.1 Copies and Certifications

Some notaries charge extra for certified copies or multiple originals.

4.2 Document Preparation

• Filling out forms

• Reviewing for completeness

• Ensuring proper notarization

4.3 Emergency or Same-Day Appointments

Urgent notarizations often cost more.

4.4 Apostille Services

If your notarized document requires an apostille, fees are additional and vary by country.

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5. How to Save Money on Notary Fees

You don’t always have to overpay. Here’s how:

5.1 Compare Notary Options

• Banks, law firms, and post offices may offer lower fees than mobile notaries.

• Some universities or government offices provide free notaries for students or citizens.

5.2 Bring All Required Documents

• Avoid multiple trips.

• Prepare IDs, forms, and attachments beforehand.

5.3 Combine Signatures

• If notarizing multiple documents, some notaries allow multiple signatures for a single fee.

5.4 Use Online Services When Legal

• RON can save time and travel expenses.

• Compare platform fees before booking.

5.5 Check Local Regulations

• Know the legal maximum to avoid overcharging.

• Many jurisdictions set a fixed fee per type of notarization.

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6. Factors Affecting Notary Fees

Understanding what drives costs helps you plan ahead:

6.1 Type of Document

• Complex, multi-page, or legal documents often cost more.

6.2 Number of Pages

• Each page may be considered separately in some jurisdictions.

6.3 Location

• Travel fees, urban demand, and local regulations influence costs.

6.4 Urgency

• Same-day or emergency notarizations usually have higher fees.

6.5 Method

• In-person notarization: generally standard

• Mobile notary: travel costs added

• Remote online notarization: platform and verification fees

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7. Remote Online Notarization Fees Explained

RON has become increasingly popular, and fees are slightly different from traditional methods:

• Base Fee: $25–$50 per document

• Digital ID Verification: $10–$25

• Multiple Signatures: Additional charges may apply

• Platform Access Fee: Some services charge subscription fees

• Notary Travel: Not applicable

While slightly higher than standard in-person fees, RON saves travel time and offers convenience.

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8. How to Avoid Unexpected Charges

1. Ask for a full fee breakdown upfront.

2. Check for travel fees or additional pages.

3. Ask if multiple documents can be notarized for a single fee.

4. Confirm RON platform fees if using online notarization.

5. Verify if apostille services are included or separate.

Being proactive prevents surprise costs and delays.

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9. Free or Low-Cost Notary Options

9.1 Banks

Many banks offer free notarization for customers.

9.2 Credit Unions

Similar to banks, often free for members.

9.3 Universities

Students can often access free notaries on campus.

9.4 Government Offices

Some government agencies notarize documents at no cost.

9.5 Certain Employers

Large corporations may provide notarization services for employees.

Tip:

Even free notaries may require appointments or specific hours—check in advance.

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10. Legal Considerations and Regulations

• Fees must comply with local laws; overcharging is illegal.

• Notaries cannot charge for giving legal advice.

• Fee caps vary by country, state, or province.

• Document type may dictate maximum allowed fee.

Example (U.S.):

• California maximum for an acknowledgment or jurat: $15 per signature

• Texas maximum for a notarized signature: $6 per signature

Check local regulations to ensure fairness.

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11. Understanding the Value of a Notary Fee

While some may see notary fees as small or unnecessary, consider the benefits:

• Fraud Prevention: Protects against forgery or impersonation

• Legal Credibility: Ensures documents are enforceable in courts

• Peace of Mind: Confirms the signer’s intent and identity

• International Use: Necessary for documents being used abroad

The cost of notarization is minimal compared to potential legal disputes or document rejection.

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12. Final Thoughts

Notary fees may vary based on document type, location, and method, but understanding them ensures you are prepared, avoid overpayment, and receive professional service.

Whether you choose in-person notarization, mobile notaries, or remote online notarization, preparation is key:

• Know the type of notarization required

• Bring proper IDs

• Prepare all documents and attachments

• Ask about fees upfront

• Choose cost-effective options without sacrificing legality

By planning carefully, you can notarize your documents efficiently, legally, and affordably—whether for personal, business, or international purposes.

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