How much can I charge as a notary in Michigan?

Asked by: Lorenzo Macejkovic  |  Last update: January 12, 2026
Score: 4.7/5 (29 votes)

A notary public in Michigan is not allowed to charge you more than $10 per notarial act. If a notary public is not a licensed attorney, they must include the following statement in their documents and advertisements: “I am not an attorney and have no authority to give advice on immigration or other legal matters.”

How much can Michigan notaries charge?

The Michigan law on notarial acts states that a Michigan notary cannot charge more than $10 for each notarial act performed.

What is the maximum you can charge for a notary?

Standard Notarization: Basic services usually range from $20 to $80 per signature. Real Estate Documents: The fees for complex documents can range from $75 to $200. Remote Online Notarization: Virtual services typically cost $25. Travel Fees: Mobile notaries may charge $25 to $50, plus $0.50 per mile travelled or more.

Can you charge money as a notary?

Opportunity to make extra money

While it's difficult to build a six-figure income by doing simple notarizations like jurats and acknowledgments, some states have higher maximum rates than others. In California, notaries can charge $15 per notarial act.

How to make money as a notary in Michigan?

13 ways to make money as a notary public
  1. Mobile notary services.
  2. Specialize in real estate closings.
  3. Work with law firms.
  4. Partner with banks and financial institutions.
  5. Specialize in medical documents.
  6. Marriage ceremonies.
  7. Notarization for academic documents.
  8. Passport and visa documentation.

EXPLAINING HOW TO CHARGE NOTARY FEES IN MICHIGAN INLCUDING A TRAVEL FEE

27 related questions found

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. ​Signing agents are responsible for guiding borrowers through the process of closing a mortgage loan, ensuring that all paperwork is properly signed and notarized.

How to become a mobile notary in Michigan?

Becoming a remote or electronic Notary in Michigan requires three steps:
  1. Hold an active commission as a traditional Notary Public.
  2. Select and buy an electronic/remote notarization system from the Secretary of State's approved vendor list.

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.

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.

How much does the UPS store charge for notary?

For example, here in California, our UPS store charges $15 per notary signature. Where as other states are lower, sometimes even under $10. However if the notary has to come you or travel for any reason to do the job, the notary can charge whatever traveling fee they would like to on top of the charge per signature.

How long does it take to get a notary license in Michigan?

How long does it take to become a Notary in Michigan? The process can take four to six weeks once you have purchased your bond and completed and submitted your application.

Can I notarize for family?

“In California, a notary public is not prohibited from notarizing for relatives or others, unless doing so would provide a direct financial or beneficial interest to the notary public. With California's community property law, care should be exercised if notarizing for a spouse or a domestic partner.”

How much can a mobile notary charge in Michigan?

The fees a notary may charge are set by the State of Michigan. The maximum fee is $10 for a standard oath or affirmation and seal.

Can you work from home as a notary in Michigan?

Yes. While using a remote notarization system/platform a notary public must adhere to all the requirements as set forth in the Michigan Law on Notarial Acts (MiLONA), as amended.

How do mobile notary make money?

Mobile Notaries travel to signers' locations to notarize documents. They earn money by charging a fee for the notarization up to the limit allowed by their state's law. Some states also permit Notaries to charge a travel fee.

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 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 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.

Can you do notary part-time?

As a part-time notary public, you are a witness to the signing of legal documents, working fewer than 40 hours per week, usually on a flexible schedule or an as-needed basis.

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.