Navigating the world of notary services in the USA can be a bit like trying to figure out a puzzle without all the pieces. Notary services are essential for many legal documents, but the costs can vary widely depending on several factors. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about notary service costs in the USA. From in-person notaries to online options, we’ve got you covered.
What is a Notary Public?
Definition and Role
A notary public is an official appointed by the state government to witness the signing of important documents and administer oaths. Their primary role is to deter fraud by ensuring that the signers of documents are who they claim to be and that they are signing willingly and knowingly.
Types of Notarial Acts
Notarial acts generally fall into three categories:
- Acknowledgments: Confirming the identity of the signer and their willingness to sign.
- Jurats: Administering oaths and affirmations.
- Certified Copies: Verifying that a copy of an original document is true and accurate.
Why Do You Need Notary Services?
Legal Requirements
Certain legal documents require notarization to be valid. This can include affidavits, power of attorney forms, and real estate documents. Notarization helps prevent fraud and ensures that the parties involved are aware of the contents of the documents they are signing.
Common Documents Needing Notarization
- Property deeds
- Wills and trusts
- Contracts
- Loan documents
- Affidavits
Average Cost of Notary Services in the USA
General Price Range
The cost of notary services in the USA typically ranges from $5 to $20 per signature. However, this can vary significantly based on location, type of document, and whether additional services like travel are required.
Factors Influencing the Cost
Several factors can influence the cost of notary services, including:
- State regulations: Each state sets its own maximum fees.
- Type of service: In-person, online, or mobile notary services can vary in price.
- Document type: Some documents may require more time and thus incur higher fees.
- Travel fees: Mobile notaries may charge additional fees for travel.
State-by-State Breakdown of Notary Fees
| State | Acknowledgment | Jurats | Certified Copies | Oaths/Affirmations |
| Alabama | $5 | $5 | $5 | $5 |
| Alaska | $5 | $5 | $5 | $5 |
| Arizona | $10 | $10 | $10 | $10 |
| Arkansas | $5 | $5 | $5 | $5 |
| California | $15 | $15 | $15 | $15 |
| Colorado | $5 | $5 | $5 | $5 |
| Connecticut | $5 | $5 | $5 | $5 |
| Delaware | $5 | $5 | $5 | $5 |
| Florida | $10 | $10 | $10 | $10 |
| Georgia | $2 | $2 | $2 | $2 |
| Hawaii | $5 | $5 | $5 | $5 |
| Idaho | $5 | $5 | $5 | $5 |
| Illinois | $1 | $1 | $1 | $1 |
| Indiana | $10 | $10 | $10 | $10 |
| Iowa | $5 | $5 | $5 | $5 |
| Kansas | $5 | $5 | $5 | $5 |
| Kentucky | $5 | $5 | $5 | $5 |
| Louisiana | Varies | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| Maine | $5 | $5 | $5 | $5 |
| Maryland | $4 | $4 | $4 | $4 |
| Massachusetts | $1 | $1 | $1 | $1 |
| Michigan | $10 | $10 | $10 | $10 |
| Minnesota | $5 | $5 | $5 | $5 |
| Mississippi | $5 | $5 | $5 | $5 |
| Missouri | $5 | $5 | $5 | $5 |
| Montana | $10 | $10 | $10 | $10 |
| Nebraska | $5 | $5 | $5 | $5 |
| Nevada | $15 | $15 | $15 | $15 |
| New Hampshire | $10 | $10 | $10 | $10 |
| New Jersey | $2.50 | $2.50 | $2.50 | $2.50 |
| New Mexico | $5 | $5 | $5 | $5 |
| New York | $2 | $2 | $2 | $2 |
| North Carolina | $10 | $10 | $10 | $10 |
| North Dakota | $5 | $5 | $5 | $5 |
| Ohio | $5 | $5 | $5 | $5 |
| Oklahoma | $5 | $5 | $5 | $5 |
| Oregon | $10 | $10 | $10 | $10 |
| Pennsylvania | $5 | $5 | $5 | $5 |
| Rhode Island | $5 | $5 | $5 | $5 |
| South Carolina | $5 | $5 | $5 | $5 |
| South Dakota | $10 | $10 | $10 | $10 |
| Tennessee | $10 | $10 | $10 | $10 |
| Texas | $6 | $6 | $6 | $6 |
| Utah | $10 | $10 | $10 | $10 |
| Vermont | $5 | $5 | $5 | $5 |
| Virginia | $5 | $5 | $5 | $5 |
| Washington | $10 | $10 | $10 | $10 |
| West Virginia | $10 | $10 | $10 | $10 |
| Wisconsin | $5 | $5 | $5 | $5 |
| Wyoming | $10 | $10 | $10 | $10 |
In-Person Notary Services
Where to Find Notary Services
You can find in-person notary services at various locations, including:
- Banks
- Law offices
- Real estate firms
- Shipping stores (e.g., UPS, FedEx)
Typical Costs for In-Person Services
In-person notary services usually cost between $5 and $20 per signature. The exact amount can depend on the state and the type of document.
Online Notary Services
Overview of Online Notarization: Online notarization allows you to get documents notarized through a video call with a notary. This is especially convenient during the COVID-19 pandemic and for those who cannot easily access in-person services.
Cost Comparison with In-Person Services: Online notary services tend to be more expensive than in-person services, typically ranging from $25 to $50 per notarization. However, they offer unparalleled convenience.
Mobile Notary Services
What is a Mobile Notary?
A mobile notary travels to your location to provide notary services. This is particularly useful for those who are unable to travel or need documents notarized outside of regular business hours.
Costs Associated with Mobile Notaries
Mobile notaries generally charge a base fee plus travel expenses. The base fee can be similar to in-person notary fees, but travel charges can range from $20 to $50 or more, depending on the distance.
Notary Services at Banks
Availability and Cost: Many banks offer free notary services to their customers. Non-customers may be charged a fee, typically ranging from $5 to $10 per signature.
Benefits of Using Bank Notary Services: Using notary services at your bank can be cost-effective, especially if the service is free for customers. It also provides a convenient and trusted location for notarization.
Notary Services at Shipping Stores
Availability at Locations like UPS and FedEx: Many shipping stores, such as UPS and FedEx, offer notary services. These locations are convenient and often open outside of regular business hours.
Cost and Convenience: The cost at shipping stores is usually around $10 to $15 per signature. They provide a convenient option for those needing notarization during evenings or weekends.
Free Notary Services
How to Find Free Notary Services
Some places offer free notary services, including public libraries, local government offices, and community organizations.
Organizations Offering Free Notary Services
- Public libraries
- Credit unions
- City or county offices
- Non-profit organizations
How to Save Money on Notary Services
Tips and Tricks
- Check with your bank: Many banks offer free notary services for their customers.
- Use public libraries: Some libraries provide free or low-cost notary services.
- Compare prices: Look at different service providers to find the best rates.
Membership Discounts and More
Certain memberships, like AAA or AARP, may offer discounted or free notary services as part of their benefits.
Becoming a Notary Public
Steps to Become a Notary:
- Meet state requirements: Age, residency, and background checks.
- Complete a notary education course: Required in some states.
- Pass a notary exam: Required in some states.
- Submit an application: Apply through your state’s notary commissioning authority.
- Purchase a notary bond and supplies: Some states require a bond, and all notaries need a seal and journal.
Costs Involved in Becoming a Notary
The total cost to become a notary can range from $100 to $500, including application fees, education courses, exams, and supplies.
Conclusion
Notary services are an essential part of many legal processes in the USA. The cost of these services can vary widely depending on the type of service and your location. Whether you opt for in-person, online, or mobile notary services, it’s important to understand the fees involved and how to find the most cost-effective option.