How Much Does a Notary Cost? 2026 Fee Guide
8 min read
Notary fees are regulated by state law, so the base cost is predictable. But the total cost depends on how many signatures you need, whether you use a mobile notary, and what type of document you're getting notarized. Here's the complete breakdown for 2026.
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Notary Fees by State (2026)
Each state sets maximum notary fees by law. Here are the states with the most notaries on NotaryScout:
| State | Max Fee per Signature | RON Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $15 | $25 | Per signature. Highest fees in the West. |
| Texas | $6 | $25 | Per notarial act. Very affordable. |
| Illinois | $1 | $25 | Lowest in the nation. $1 per notarial act. |
| Florida | $10 | $25 | Per notarial act. |
| New York | $2 | $25 | Per notarial act. Very low base fee. |
Mobile Notary Costs
Mobile notaries charge the state-regulated fee plus a travel/convenience fee. This is not regulated by the state, so prices vary based on distance, time of day, and market demand.
| Service | Typical Cost | What's Included |
|---|---|---|
| Standard mobile visit | $25–$50 travel fee | Within 15-mile radius, standard hours |
| Extended travel | $50–$100 travel fee | 15+ mile radius or rush service |
| After-hours/weekend | $50–$100 surcharge | Evenings, weekends, holidays |
| Hospital/jail visit | $75–$150 travel fee | Special facility access, waiting time |
Total cost example: A mobile notary visit in California for a power of attorney with 2 signatures: $30 (2 x $15 notary fee) + $40 travel fee = $70 total.
Loan Signing Agent Costs
Loan signing agents handle real estate closings and charge a flat fee for the entire signing session:
- Purchase signing: $100–$200
- Refinance signing: $75–$150
- Reverse mortgage: $125–$200
- HELOC: $75–$125
The signing fee is usually paid by the lender or title company — not the borrower. Browse loan signing agents on NotaryScout.
Notary Costs by Document Type
| Document | Signatures | Typical Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Power of attorney | 1–3 | $6–$45 (+ travel if mobile) |
| Car title transfer | 1–2 | $6–$30 (+ travel if mobile) |
| Will / self-proving affidavit | 3 | $18–$45 (+ travel if mobile) |
| Real estate closing | 10–30 | $75–$200 (signing agent fee) |
| Affidavit | 1 | $1–$15 (+ travel if mobile) |
Where to Get Free Notary Services
You don't always have to pay. Several places offer free notarization:
- Banks and credit unions — Most offer free notary services to account holders
- AAA — Free for members at participating locations
- Public libraries — Some offer free notary services during business hours
- Your employer — Many HR departments have notaries on staff
See our full guide on where to get free notary services.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a notary cost?
Notary fees are set by state law and range from $2 to $15 per signature or notarial act. California charges $15/signature, Florida $10/act, Illinois $5/act, New York $2/act, and Texas $6/notarial act. Mobile notaries charge an additional $25-$75 travel fee. Loan signing agents charge $75-$200 per signing.
How much does a mobile notary charge?
Mobile notaries charge the state-regulated notary fee plus a travel/convenience fee of $25–$75. Total cost for a standard mobile notarization is typically $40–$100 depending on the number of signatures and distance traveled. After-hours and weekend appointments may cost more.
Where can I get something notarized for free?
Many banks and credit unions offer free notary services to account holders. AAA offers free notarization at some locations for members. Some libraries and government offices provide free notary services. Check our guide on free notary services for details.
How much does a notary charge for a real estate closing?
Loan signing agents charge $75–$200 for a real estate closing, separate from the per-signature notary fee. The signing fee covers reviewing the document package, guiding the borrower through 50+ documents, and returning the package to the title company. This fee is usually paid by the lender or title company.
How much does remote online notarization cost?
Remote online notarization (RON) typically costs $25 per signature, though platform fees can add $5–$15. The convenience of 24/7 availability from anywhere makes RON competitive with mobile notary costs, especially for simple documents that need one or two signatures.
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