Notarization is one of those essential services that pops up at the most important moments of life—when you’re closing on a home, filing an affidavit, creating a power of attorney, or authenticating an international document. But before you walk into a notary’s office or book an online appointment, there’s always one big question:
“How much does notarization cost?”
Great news—you’re about to get a crystal-clear, fully detailed breakdown of every type of notary fee, what affects pricing, and how to avoid overpaying. Buckle up!
1. Why Notary Fees Exist (And What You’re Actually Paying For)
Notarization isn’t just a signature and a stamp. Behind that small act sit several layers of legal responsibility:
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Verifying your identity
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Ensuring no fraud, coercion, or impersonation
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Completing the notarial certificate
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Recording the act in the notary’s journal
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Applying seals and verification details
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Taking legal responsibility for the notarization
Notaries are highly regulated, and in many regions, their fees are capped by law. In others, the market determines pricing.
So when you pay a notary, you’re not paying for the stamp — you’re paying for legal assurance, liability, and trust.
2. Average Notary Fees by Country (In-Person Services)
Below is a practical, real-world breakdown of common notary fees around the world.
United States
Notary fees vary by state, but here are typical price ranges:
| Service | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Acknowledgments | $5–$15 |
| Jurats (oaths/affirmations) | $5–$10 |
| Certified copies | $10–$20 |
| Loan signing agent fees | $75–$200 |
| Travel/mobile notary | $25–$75 per trip |
Some states cap fees at $5; others allow up to $25 per signature.
United Kingdom
Notaries in the UK are regulated differently and offer more specialized services.
| Service | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Basic signature notarization | £40–£90 |
| Multiple documents | £80–£150 |
| International legalization prep | £100–£200+ |
| Complex documents | £250–£600 |
UK notaries often handle international documents like academic credentials and business filings.
Canada
Canadian notaries can be lawyers or licensed notaries depending on the province.
| Service | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Signatures | CAD $15–$35 each |
| Certified copies | CAD $20–$40 |
| Statutory declarations | CAD $20–$40 |
| Mobile notary travel | CAD $50–$100 |
Australia
Pricing varies by state but typically:
| Service | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Single document | AUD $80–$150 |
| Multiple documents | AUD $150–$300 |
| International documents | AUD $250–$600 |
| Passport certification | AUD $60–$120 |
Ghana
This is especially relevant for your audience. Ghanaian notary fees can vary widely depending on the complexity.
| Service | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Notarization of a signature | GHS 150–300 |
| Certified copy | GHS 100–200 |
| Affidavit | GHS 200–350 |
| International documents | GHS 300–600 |
| Mobile notary | GHS 150–300 travel cost |
Lawyers typically serve as notaries in Ghana.
Nigeria
Similar to Ghana, fees vary but usually fall between:
| Service | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Signature notarization | ₦10,000–₦25,000 |
| Affidavit | ₦5,000–₦10,000 |
| Certified copy | ₦5,000–₦15,000 |
3. Online Notarization Fees (Remote Online Notarization)
Remote online notarization (RON) has exploded in popularity since 2020. Platforms typically charge per session.
Average Pricing (International):
| Platform Type | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Standard online notarization | $20–$35 per document |
| Business/enterprise RON | $25–$50 per notarization |
| Video notarization (UK/EU) | £40–£70 |
| Additional signers | $10–$15 |
RON is often more expensive than traditional notarization—but it saves travel time and can be done 24/7.
4. What Affects Notary Pricing?
Notary fees vary depending on several factors:
1. Where You Live
Countries with regulated legal industries (UK, Australia, Canada) charge more.
2. Document Complexity
A power of attorney or international certification requires more steps than a basic signature.
3. Number of Signatures
More signatures = higher fees.
4. Urgency
Same-day or express service often comes with an extra charge.
5. Travel Requirements
Mobile notaries charge for:
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Fuel
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Travel time
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Convenience
6. Additional Services
Such as:
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Document preparation
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Printing
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Scanning
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Courier services
5. How Much Do Mobile Notaries Cost?
A mobile notary travels to your home, office, hospital, or any agreed location.
Typical Mobile Notary Costs
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US: $25–$75 travel + $5–$15 per signature
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UK: £20–£50 travel fee
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Ghana: GHS 150–300 travel cost
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Canada: CAD $50–$100 travel
Mobile notaries are ideal for:
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Bedridden patients
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Elderly clients
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Real estate closings
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Businesses needing multiple signings
6. How Notary Fees Work for Real Estate Closings
Real estate is one of the biggest consumers of notary services.
Typical Notary Real Estate Fees
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Loan Signing Agent: $75–$200
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Mortgage closing package: 100–200 pages
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Travel included
These notaries handle:
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Identity checks
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Signing packages
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Witnessing
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Document shipping
7. Apostille & Legalization Fees (International Documents)
When documents must be used internationally, you may need:
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A notarization
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An apostille
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Embassy legalization
Typical Costs
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Apostille | $20–$80 (varies by country) |
| Embassy legalization | $50–$150 |
| Document translation | $30–$60 per page |
Some countries require multiple steps, which increases cost significantly.
8. How to Save Money on Notary Fees
Here are smart ways to cut your notarization costs:
✔ Visit a bank
Many banks notarize documents for customers free of charge.
✔ Use online notarization
Fast, cheaper than traveling long distances.
✔ Combine multiple documents
Some notaries offer bulk discounts.
✔ Choose a notary close to you
This avoids high travel fees.
✔ Ask for a price breakdown
Avoid hidden charges.
✔ Use public institutions
Government offices, courts, and universities often have low-cost notaries.
9. What You Should Bring to Avoid Additional Fees
Bringing the wrong documents can cause delays—and extra charges.
Always carry:
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Valid government-issued ID
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Unsigned document (sign in front of the notary)
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Witnesses (if required)
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Payment method (cash, card, MoMo, etc.)
Avoid editing documents in the notary’s office — some charge additional fees.
10. Red Flags: When a Notary Is Overcharging
Be cautious if a notary:
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Refuses to show their fee schedule
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Charges extremely high travel fees
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Adds “processing fees” that don’t exist
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Stamps without checking your identity
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Asks you to pre-sign the document
These are signs of an unprofessional or fraudulent notary.
11. Final Thoughts: Understanding Notary Fees Helps You Make Better Decisions
Knowing the real cost of notarization empowers you to plan ahead, avoid scams, and select the option that fits your budget. Whether you’re in Ghana, the US, the UK, or anywhere else, notarization doesn’t have to be confusing — and now you’re fully equipped to make the smartest choice.
If you use online services, mobile notaries, or specialized international notarization, fees will differ, but the value you receive remains the same:
Protection. Authenticity. Legal validity. Peace of mind.
Kindly direct any inquiries you may have to the comments section below.
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