How much can a notary charge in California?

What type of notary makes the most money?

#1: Loan Signing Agent

One of the most lucrative ways to make money as a notary public is by becoming a loan signing agent.

Is it worth being a notary in California?

California is the highest paying state in the U.S. when it comes to being a notary public. The average salary of a notary public in California is $59,055. Considering the average of the country is roughly $45,000, this is another great reason to become a notary in California.

How does a notary get paid?

The two most common ways notaries make money are: Part of an established salary (working for a bank, local post office or another business) As an independent, freelance notary.

Where are notaries needed the most?

Banks, Mortgage Lenders, and Other Financial Institutions

As we pointed out, loan and mortgage documents require signature verification. The same goes for other financial agreements as well. That means financial institutions will need notary services on a regular basis.

Is notary income taxable in the IRS?

Notary income

Fees for services you provide as a notary public are not subject to self-employment tax. However, all of your other self-employment income is subject to self-employment tax.

Can a notary waive fees?

Answer: True. Notaries may choose to charge a lower fee to customers, or waive a fee entirely. In Arizona, for example, Notaries may charge any amount less than the maximum or may charge no fee at all. If Notaries do charge for their services, the state recommends fees should “be consistent.

Can you notarize online in California?

Yes. Starting January 1, 2024, Californians will have the option to get their documents notarized online, based on California Senate Bill 696.

Can you make good money as a notary in California?

As of Jan 20, 2025, the average annual pay for a Notary in California is $63,928 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $30.73 an hour. This is the equivalent of $1,229/week or $5,327/month.

How much do notaries make per closing?

Yes, there is a significant variation in notary pay across states. For example, California averages around $15 per signature, while Illinois may only offer about $1.

How much does a mobile notary charge per mile?

Most mobile notaries charge for travel distance from their office to your location. Typical per mile rates range from $1-$3. Some set a mileage radius from their office and only charge for distances beyond that.

What is the most common mistake made by a notary?

One of the most common mistakes that notaries make is not printing or signing their name exactly as it appears on their notary commission.

How much can a mobile notary charge in California?

The base travel fee for a Mobile Notary in Los Angeles during normal business hours is $55. In addition, each notarized signature is a fixed fee of $15 with every 6th signature free. If you require a notary during peak traffic or after hours, the travel fee is increased between $10 and $500 depending on the hour.

How to bill as a notary?

Is there a demand for notaries in California?

Demand: The need for notaries is on the rise due to economic growth and increased legal services. This trend creates ample job opportunities. Earning Potential: With California being the highest-paying state for notaries, the average salary stands at $59,055 per year.

Can being a Notary be a side hustle?

Why becoming a Notary is the ultimate side gig. Whether you're looking for a way to work from home or a part-time job to get you out of the house, you should consider becoming a Notary first. A Notary commission can open the door to more than a dozen additional money-making opportunities.

What are the downsides of being a notary?

Time Commitment and Costs

Initial training courses may take several hours to days to complete, depending on the program's complexity. Ongoing education is necessary to stay current with changes in notarial laws and procedures. Costs can include training fees, application fees, bond expenses, and insurance premiums.

Is notary a stressful job?

Working as a Notary is flexible, rewarding and provides a valuable service to the public — but no one ever said it's a cakewalk. Notaries face many sources of stress on the job, including angry customers, illegal requests, irregular work hours and more.

How long does it take to become a notary in CA?

Here's the process for becoming a first time California notary. You'll need to complete an approved, 6 hour, notary class, in person or on line, complete the application with passport photos, pay for and pass the notary test after you give the test givers the certificate of completion of the course.