Notarial Services and Fee Structures

Overview of Notarization

Notarization is the process by which a notary public, an official appointed by state government, verifies the identity of a document signer(s), witnesses the signing, and affixes an official seal. This process helps to deter fraud and ensures the authenticity of important documents. The notary public acts as an impartial witness to the signing.

State Regulations and Fee Schedules

Fees for notarial acts are generally regulated at the state level. Each state establishes its own maximum allowable charges for various notarial services. Some states may permit notaries to charge travel fees in addition to the per-signature or per-act fee.

Common Notarial Acts and Associated Fees

Acknowledgments: Verification that a signer appeared before the notary and acknowledged having signed the document. Fees are typically assessed per signature acknowledged.
Oath or Affirmation: Administering an oath or affirmation, often associated with affidavits or depositions. Fees may be assessed per person sworn.
Jurats: Certification that a signer swore to the truthfulness of the contents of a document in the notary's presence. Fees are typically assessed per signature sworn.
Copy Certifications: Confirming that a photocopy is a true and accurate copy of an original document. Allowed only in certain states. Fees may be assessed per page or per copy.
Witnessing Signatures: Observing the signing of a document. This may be included in the acknowledgment or jurat process, or be a separate act.

Factors Influencing Service Costs

Several factors can influence the ultimate cost of notarization:

State-Specific Fee Caps: The maximum fees allowed by the state.
Travel and Convenience Fees: Some notaries offer mobile services and may charge additional fees for travel time, mileage, and after-hours or weekend appointments.
Document Complexity: While the per-act fee is often fixed, more complex documents requiring careful review may indirectly influence the overall cost if they require additional time or specific procedures.
Number of Signatures: The total number of signatures requiring notarization will directly impact the total charge, as fees are often assessed per signature.
Type of Notarial Act Required: Different notarial acts (acknowledgment, jurat, etc.) may have different fee structures.

Finding a Notary Public

Notary publics can be found at various locations, including:

Banks and Credit Unions: Many banks offer free or discounted notarization services to their customers.
Law Offices: Some law offices provide notarial services.
Real Estate Offices: Real estate agents often have notaries on staff.
Shipping and Postal Services: Some locations, such as UPS stores, offer notary services.
Independent Notary Publics: Mobile notaries offer convenience by traveling to the signer's location.

Disclaimer

This information is for general guidance only and is not a substitute for legal advice. Fees and regulations are subject to change. Always consult with a qualified notary public and verify the specific fee schedule in your jurisdiction.