One of the biggest mistakes new mobile notaries make? Undercharging. You're providing a professional service that requires training, licensing, bonding, and liability. You deserve to be paid fairly.
But how much should you actually charge? The answer depends on your state's maximum fees, the type of service, travel distance, timing, and your market. This comprehensive guide breaks down exactly what to charge for every notary service in 2026.
Quick Pricing Overview
- ✓ General notarization: $15-25 per signature (state maximums apply)
- ✓ Mobile travel fee: $25-75 (within 20 miles)
- ✓ Loan signing package: $75-200 per appointment
- ✓ After-hours/weekend: 1.5x-2x your base rate
- ✓ Hospital/jail visits: $150-300 (specialized service)
How Much Does a Notary Cost? (Quick Answer)
General notarization: $10-25 per signature (state maximum applies)
Mobile notary at your location: $50-100 total (notarization + travel)
Loan signing (mortgage closing): $100-200 per appointment
After-hours/weekend: 1.5x-2x standard rates
The cost of notary services depends on three factors: your state's maximum fee per signature, whether the notary travels to you (mobile fee), and the complexity of service (general notarization vs loan signing). Let's break down exactly what you can expect to pay—or charge if you're a notary.
Understanding State Maximum Fees
Every state sets a maximum fee you can charge per notarial act (signature). You can charge LESS than the maximum, but never more. Violating this can result in fines or loss of commission.
State Maximum Notary Fees (All 50 States)
These are the maximum fees per notarial act (per signature) set by each state. Notaries can charge less, but never more.
| State | Acknowledgment | Jurat | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $5 | $5 | Low fee state |
| Alaska | $10 | $10 | Standard rate |
| Arizona | $10 | $10 | Standard rate |
| Arkansas | $5 | $5 | Low fee state |
| California | $15 | $15 | High fee state |
| Colorado | $5 | $5 | Low fee state |
| Connecticut | $5 | $5 | Low fee state |
| Delaware | $5 | $5 | Low fee state |
| Florida | $10 | $10 | Online: $25 |
| Georgia | $2 | $2 | Lowest fees, rely on travel |
| Hawaii | $5 | $5 | Standard rate |
| Idaho | $2 | $2 | Very low |
| Illinois | $1 | $1 | Lowest in US |
| Indiana | $10 | $10 | Standard rate |
| Iowa | $5 | $5 | Low fee state |
| Kansas | $1 | $1 | Very low |
| Kentucky | No max | No max | Market rate |
| Louisiana | No max | No max | Market rate |
| Maine | No max | No max | Market rate |
| Maryland | $4 | $4 | Low fee state |
| Massachusetts | No max | No max | Market rate |
| Michigan | $10 | $10 | Standard rate |
| Minnesota | $5 | $5 | Low fee state |
| Mississippi | $5 | $5 | Low fee state |
| Missouri | $5 | $5 | Can charge travel |
| Montana | $10 | $10 | Standard rate |
| Nebraska | $5 | $5 | Low fee state |
| Nevada | $15 | $15 | High fee state |
| New Hampshire | $10 | $10 | Standard rate |
| New Jersey | $2.50 | $2.50 | Very low |
| New Mexico | $5 | $5 | Low fee state |
| New York | $2 | $2 | Lowest fees |
| North Carolina | $5 | $5 | Electronic: $25 |
| North Dakota | $5 | $5 | Low fee state |
| Ohio | No max | No max | Market rate |
| Oklahoma | $5 | $5 | Low fee state |
| Oregon | $10 | $10 | Standard rate |
| Pennsylvania | $5 | $5 | Travel fees common |
| Rhode Island | $4 | $4 | Low fee state |
| South Carolina | $5 | $5 | Low fee state |
| South Dakota | $10 | $10 | Standard rate |
| Tennessee | No max | No max | Market-based |
| Texas | $6 | $6 | Can charge travel |
| Utah | $10 | $10 | Standard rate |
| Vermont | No max | No max | Market rate |
| Virginia | $5 | $5 | Electronic: $25 |
| Washington | $15 | $15 | High fee state |
| West Virginia | $5 | $5 | Low fee state |
| Wisconsin | $5 | $5 | Low fee state |
| Wyoming | $5 | $5 | Low fee state |
Data current as of January 2026. Verify with your state's Secretary of State or notary regulatory authority as fees can change annually.
Key takeaway: If you're in a low-fee state (NY, IL, GA), don't panic. You'll make your money on travel fees, which are separate from notarial fees and unlimited in most states.
Mobile Notary Travel Fees
This is where mobile notaries actually make money, especially in low-fee states. Travel fees are charged ON TOP of your per-signature fees.
Standard Travel Fee Structure
| Distance | Recommended Fee |
|---|---|
| 0-10 miles | $25-35 |
| 11-20 miles | $40-60 |
| 21-30 miles | $65-85 |
| 31+ miles | $100+ or $2-3/mile beyond 30 |
| After hours (6pm-8am) | 1.5x-2x standard rate |
| Weekends | 1.5x standard rate |
| Holidays | 2x-3x standard rate |
Pro tip: Build your travel fee into your quote. Instead of saying "$15 notary fee + $35 travel," say "Mobile notary appointment: $50 total" (for 1-2 signatures). Simpler for clients, same money for you.
Loan Signing Fees (The Big Money)
Loan signings are where notaries make serious income. These are complex, 100+ page mortgage closing packages that require specialized training and precision.
Loan Signing Pricing Guide
Standard Purchase/Refinance:
$100-150 per signing
Typical closing package, daytime hours, within 20 miles
Rush Signing (same-day):
$150-200
Client needs it done today, drop everything priority
Scan-Backs Required:
Add $25-50
Extra time to scan and upload documents after signing
After-Hours (evenings/weekends):
$125-175
Premium for non-business hours convenience
Distant Travel (30+ miles):
$150-250
Factor in drive time and fuel costs
Multiple Signers:
Add $25-50 per additional signer
More people = more time, more complexity
Want to Earn $100-200 Per Signing?
Loan signing isn't something you can wing. Title companies expect precision, speed, and professionalism. One mistake can delay a closing and cost you repeat business.
Loan Signing System teaches you:
- • How to handle every document in a closing package
- • What title companies expect from signing agents
- • How to get on signing company rosters
- • Common mistakes and how to avoid them
- • How to build a 6-figure loan signing business
Specialized Service Pricing
Some notary services command premium pricing because they're difficult, time-sensitive, or require specialized knowledge.
Hospital / Hospice Signings
Recommended: $150-300
Why premium pricing: Emotionally sensitive, may involve capacity verification, potential for delays (patient sleeping, medical procedures), parking hassles, potential exposure to illness.
Documents: Healthcare directives, powers of attorney, living wills, HIPAA releases
Jail / Prison Signings
Recommended: $150-300
Why premium pricing: Clearance requirements, security protocols, limited access hours, ID verification challenges, can't bring certain supplies.
Usually requires: Background check, facility approval, advance scheduling
Assisted Living / Nursing Home
Recommended: $100-200
Why premium pricing: Capacity assessment, patience required, potential for confused signers, family members present creating dynamics.
See our target industries guide for more on this niche.
Business Signings (B2B)
Recommended: $75-150
Why mid-range pricing: Professional setting, scheduled in advance, usually straightforward, potential for repeat business.
Examples: Contract signings, corporate documents, commercial real estate
Apostille / Authentication Services
Recommended: $50-100 + state fees
What you're doing: Notarizing documents that will be used internationally, may include coordination with Secretary of State office.
Higher fee justified by knowledge of international document requirements
I-9 Verification (Remote)
Recommended: $25-50
Note: This is NOT notarization, but many notaries offer this service. You're verifying identity and employment eligibility for remote workers.
Package Pricing Strategies
Instead of charging per signature, consider package pricing for repeat clients or high-volume situations.
Real Estate Agent Partnership
Package: $500/month for unlimited general notarizations at their office
Why it works: They get convenience, you get predictable income, everyone wins
Auto Dealership Contract
Package: $15 per notarization, minimum 20/month
Why it works: Guaranteed volume, easy to budget, simple docs
Law Firm Retainer
Package: $750/month for on-call service (up to 30 notarizations)
Why it works: They need reliability, you get steady income
Title Company Preferred Vendor
Package: $125/signing, guaranteed minimum 4 signings/week
Why it works: $2,000+/month baseline, potential for more
Package pricing removes the "nickel and dime" feeling for clients while giving you predictable revenue. Learn more about which industries to target for package deals.
How to Justify Premium Pricing
Clients will pay more when you demonstrate value. Here's how to position yourself as worth the premium:
10 Ways to Command Higher Fees
- Professional appearance: Dress business professional, arrive in a clean vehicle, use quality supplies
- Specialized certifications: Loan Signing System certified, NNA Background Screened, specific training credentials
- Fast response time: Answer within 1 hour, accommodate rush requests
- 24/7 availability: "Emergency notary services available" justifies premium
- Error-free service: Double-check everything, provide confidence
- Tech-enabled: E-signatures for non-notarized docs, mobile payment, digital scheduling
- Educational approach: Explain documents (without giving legal advice), walk clients through process
- Insurance: $100K E&O insurance shows you're serious
- Reviews: 50+ five-star Google reviews = instant credibility
- Niche expertise: "I specialize in hospital signings" or "I only do loan signings" = expert positioning
Common Pricing Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Mistake #1: Charging Only State Maximum
If you're only charging $15 in California and driving 30 minutes each way, you're working for $15/hour BEFORE expenses. Always add travel fees!
❌ Mistake #2: Not Charging for Your Time
A "quick 5-minute signing" still requires: driving there, parking, walking in, verifying ID, completing journal, driving back. That's 45 minutes minimum. Price accordingly.
❌ Mistake #3: Competing on Price Alone
There's always someone cheaper. Compete on service, speed, professionalism, and expertise instead.
❌ Mistake #4: No After-Hours Premium
Clients asking you to come at 8pm on Saturday? That's 2x minimum. Your personal time has value.
❌ Mistake #5: Free Consultations That Should Be Paid
"Can you just quickly look at these documents and tell me if they need to be notarized?" That's your professional expertise - charge a consultation fee or politely redirect.
What Your Competition Is Charging
Want to know what other notaries in your area charge? Here's how to research:
- Google "[your city] mobile notary" and check websites for pricing
- Call 5 competitors as a potential client and ask for quotes
- Check Yelp and Google reviews - clients sometimes mention prices
- Join local notary Facebook groups and see what people discuss
- Ask title companies what they typically pay signing agents
Golden rule: Price in the top 25% of your market if you're certified, professional, and reliable. Bottom 25% pricing attracts bottom 25% clients (late-night emergencies, price shoppers, payment issues).
Your Pricing Formula
Simple Pricing Calculator
Base Fee (State Maximum × # of Signatures):
Example: CA $15 × 2 signatures = $30
+ Travel Fee (Distance-based):
Example: 15 miles = $45
+ Time Premium (After hours/weekend/rush):
Example: Weekend = $45 × 1.5 = $67.50
+ Complexity Premium (Specialized service):
Example: Hospital visit = +$50
= Total Quote
$30 + $67.50 + $50 = $147.50
Round to clean numbers: Quote "$150" instead of "$147.50"
Payment Methods to Accept
Make it easy for clients to pay you:
- Cash: Always accepted (but provide receipt!)
- Venmo/Zelle/CashApp: Fast, free, popular with individuals
- Square/PayPal: Credit cards accepted (~3% fee, worth it for convenience)
- Check: Business clients prefer this (deposit same day)
- Invoice + ACH: For monthly retainer clients
Payment timing: For individuals, collect payment before leaving. For businesses, NET 15 or NET 30 terms are standard.
Tracking Your Income
You're running a business, so track it like one:
- Use QuickBooks Self-Employed or Wave (free) for invoicing
- Track mileage with MileIQ or Everlance (tax deduction!)
- Log every signing in a spreadsheet: date, client, service, fee, payment method
- Calculate your hourly rate monthly (total income ÷ total hours worked)
- Set income goals and review progress weekly
Proper bookkeeping isn't just about tracking income—it's about maximizing deductions, separating business from personal finances, and actually understanding your profitability per signing. Read our complete money management guide for mobile notaries to set up a system that takes 10 minutes per week and saves you thousands at tax time.
Income Goal Examples
Part-Time ($2,000/month):
10 loan signings at $150 = $1,500
20 mobile notarizations at $50 = $1,000
Total: $2,500/month (10-15 hours/week)
Full-Time ($6,000/month):
30 loan signings at $150 = $4,500
40 mobile notarizations at $50 = $2,000
Total: $6,500/month (30-35 hours/week)
Six-Figure ($10,000/month):
50 loan signings at $150 = $7,500
Business retainers (3 clients) = $2,000
Premium services (hospitals, rush) = $1,500
Total: $11,000/month (40-45 hours/week)
How Much Do Notaries Make? (Real Income Numbers)
The question everyone asks: "How much money can I actually make as a notary?" The answer depends on whether you're part-time or full-time, general notary or loan signing specialist, and how well you market yourself.
Average Notary Income by Type
General Notary Public (Part-Time)
$300-1,500/month
Time commitment: 5-10 hours/week
Services: General notarizations, occasional mobile appointments
Reality: Supplemental income, not enough to live on
Mobile Notary Public (Part-Time)
$1,500-3,000/month
Time commitment: 10-15 hours/week
Services: Mobile notarizations, some loan signings
Reality: Solid side hustle, could replace part-time job
Loan Signing Agent (Part-Time)
$2,000-5,000/month
Time commitment: 15-20 hours/week
Services: Primarily loan signings ($100-150 each)
Reality: 15-30 loan signings per month, sustainable side income
Mobile Notary Public (Full-Time)
$3,000-6,000/month
Time commitment: 30-40 hours/week
Services: Mix of mobile notarizations and loan signings
Reality: Livable wage, requires consistent marketing
Loan Signing Agent (Full-Time)
$6,000-12,000/month
Time commitment: 40-50 hours/week
Services: 40-80 loan signings per month
Reality: This is where serious money is made ($72K-144K/year)
Factors That Affect Notary Income
- Your state's fee limits: California ($15 max) = higher potential than New York ($2 max)
- Population density: Urban areas = more demand, more competition
- Loan signing certification: Certified agents earn 3-10x more than general notaries
- Marketing effort: Google Business Profile + reviews + networking = consistent bookings
- Availability: After-hours and weekends = premium pricing opportunities
- Specialization: Hospital/jail signings, estate planning, real estate niches = higher fees
- Business relationships: Title companies, law firms, realtors referring you = steady income
Real Example: California Loan Signing Agent
Month 1 (New): 5 signings × $100 = $500
Month 3 (Building): 15 signings × $125 = $1,875
Month 6 (Established): 30 signings × $135 = $4,050
Month 12 (Full-time): 60 signings × $150 = $9,000
Annual income (Month 12 pace): $108,000
Notary Salary vs. Notary Signing Agent Salary
There's a massive income gap between general notaries and loan signing agents. Here's the reality:
| Category | General Notary | Loan Signing Agent |
|---|---|---|
| Fee per service | $15-50 | $100-200 |
| Time per appointment | 15-30 minutes | 60-90 minutes |
| Hourly rate | $30-60/hour | $80-150/hour |
| Monthly income (part-time) | $500-1,500 | $2,000-5,000 |
| Monthly income (full-time) | $2,000-4,000 | $6,000-12,000 |
Bottom line: If you want to make serious money as a notary, get loan signing certified. It's the difference between a side gig and a career.
Ready to Start Earning?
Now you know what to charge. Next step: Learn exactly what to do in your first 30 days as a mobile notary.
Read the 30-Day Action PlanList Your Business for FreeFrequently Asked Questions About Notary Pricing
How much should a mobile notary charge?
Mobile notaries should charge your state's maximum per signature ($2-15) PLUS a travel fee ($25-75 depending on distance). For a typical appointment with 1-2 signatures within 15 miles, charge $50-75 total. Premium for after-hours, weekends, or specialized services (hospitals, jails).
What is a typical notary fee?
The typical notary fee ranges from $5-15 per signature depending on your state. California, Washington, and Nevada charge $15 (highest). New York, Illinois, and Georgia charge $1-2 (lowest). Most states fall in the $5-10 range. Remember: this is just the notarization fee—mobile notaries add travel fees on top.
How much does a notary cost at a bank?
Banks typically charge $0-10 per signature for existing customers, sometimes free. Non-customers may pay $10-25. However, banks require you to visit during business hours (inconvenient). Mobile notaries charge more ($50-100) but come to you at your convenience.
How much is a mobile notary in California?
California mobile notaries charge $15 per signature (state maximum) plus $25-75 travel fee. Total for a typical mobile appointment: $40-90 depending on distance and number of signatures. After-hours or rush service: $75-150.
How much is a mobile notary in Texas?
Texas mobile notaries charge $6 per signature (state maximum) plus travel fees. Because the notarial fee is low, Texas notaries rely heavily on travel fees ($35-100 depending on distance). Typical appointment total: $50-100.
How much is a mobile notary in Florida?
Florida mobile notaries charge $10 per signature (state maximum) plus travel fees ($25-60). Online/remote notarizations can charge up to $25 per signature. Typical mobile appointment: $50-80 total.
How much do notary publics charge?
Stationary notaries (at an office, bank, or shipping store) charge $5-15 per signature. Mobile notaries who travel to you charge $50-100+ per appointment (notarization + travel). Loan signing agents charge $100-200 per closing appointment.
Can a notary charge a travel fee?
Yes! Travel fees are separate from notarial fees and are unlimited in most states. Mobile notaries charge $25-75 for local travel (0-20 miles), $75-150 for distant travel (20-40 miles), and premium rates for after-hours or specialized locations (hospitals, jails).
How much can a mobile notary make?
Part-time mobile notaries earn $1,500-3,000/month. Full-time mobile notaries earn $3,000-6,000/month. Loan signing agents (full-time) can earn $6,000-12,000/month ($72K-144K annually). Income depends on volume, marketing, and whether you're loan signing certified.
Do notaries make good money?
General notaries make modest supplemental income ($300-1,500/month part-time). Mobile notaries can make decent income ($2,000-6,000/month). Loan signing agents make excellent income ($6,000-12,000/month full-time). The key is specialization and professional marketing.
How much does a notary make per signature?
Notaries earn $1-15 per signature depending on state maximum fees. However, "per signature" is misleading—mobile notaries make money on travel fees, not just signatures. A mobile appointment with 2 signatures might earn $75 total ($15 per signature + $45 travel fee).
How much does a traveling notary cost?
Traveling notaries (another term for mobile notaries) cost $50-100 for local appointments, $100-200 for distant travel or complex services. After-hours, weekends, and holidays command 1.5x-2x standard rates. Factor in convenience—they come to you!
What is the average cost of a notary?
Average notary cost depends on service type: Walk-in notary (bank, UPS store): $5-15 per signature. Mobile notary at your location: $50-100 per appointment. Loan signing: $100-200 per closing. Average across all services: ~$75 per appointment.
How much should I pay a notary?
Expect to pay $50-100 for a mobile notary to come to your home or office with 1-3 signatures. More signatures, longer distances, or after-hours service increases the cost. Loan signings (mortgage closings) cost $100-200 but include extensive document review.
Can notaries set their own prices?
Notaries can charge UP TO their state's maximum per signature, but not more. However, travel fees, convenience premiums, and specialized service charges are unlimited in most states. This is how mobile notaries set competitive pricing and make sustainable income.
Do notaries charge by the hour or by the signature?
Notaries charge by the signature (per notarial act), but mobile notaries effectively charge by the appointment (signature fees + travel). Loan signing agents charge per signing package (flat rate for the entire closing, typically $100-200 regardless of how many signatures).
How much does a loan signing agent make per signing?
Loan signing agents earn $100-200 per signing depending on complexity, distance, and timing. Standard refinances: $100-125. Rush signings: $150-200. Distant travel (30+ miles): $150-250. Scan-backs required: add $25-50. Average experienced agent: $135/signing.
Is being a notary worth it financially?
As a side business: Yes ($1,500-3,000/month extra income). As a full-time mobile notary: Maybe ($3,000-6,000/month, livable but not lucrative). As a full-time loan signing agent: Absolutely ($6,000-12,000/month with growth potential). The key is getting certified for loan signings.
What expenses do mobile notaries have?
Mobile notary expenses include: Notary commission/bond ($100-300), E&O insurance ($50-150/year), supplies ($100-200), vehicle (gas, maintenance), printer for loan signings ($200-400), marketing ($0-500/year), continuing education ($50-200). Annual total: $500-2,000 depending on volume.
Can I negotiate notary fees?
For individuals: Mobile notary prices are usually firm (they're already traveling to you). For businesses: Volume discounts or monthly retainers are negotiable. Title companies: Loan signing fees may have some flexibility ($10-20 range), but undercutting too much hurts the industry.
Continue Building Your Business:
15 Target Industries for Notaries
Where to find clients who pay premium rates
Mobile Notary Supplies Checklist
Look professional and command higher fees
Why 2026 is Perfect for Loan Signing Agents
The highest-paying notary niche explained
Smart Money Management for Mobile Notaries
Business accounts, expense tracking, tax deductions, and quarterly planning
7 Essential Notary Books
Build expertise that justifies premium pricing