How much does it cost to become a virtual notary?

Asked by: Martin Fahey DVM  |  Last update: February 10, 2026
Score: 5/5 (52 votes)

Becoming a virtual (Remote Online Notary - RON) notary generally costs under $100 to a few hundred dollars, varying by state and provider, covering state fees, a digital certificate, eSeal, potential surety bond/E&O insurance, and technology/platform costs, plus necessary equipment like a computer, webcam, and secure internet if you don't have them. Key expenses include application fees (e.g., $50 in TX, $60 in NY), technology platforms (monthly/per-session), and digital supplies, with costs rising if you need to buy equipment or insurance.

Do online notaries make money?

The earning potential of being a Remote Online Notary can vary depending on how much effort you put into it, but you can make good money! For General Notary Work, you can get paid between $5 and $25 per notarial act, depending on your state's RON laws.

How do you become a virtual notary?

How to Become a Remote Online Notary

  1. Meet your state's qualifications to become a traditional Notary.
  2. Apply or register to perform virtual notarizations.
  3. Pay the state's application fees.
  4. Complete a RON-specific training course (if applicable).
  5. Pass an exam (if applicable).

How much does a mobile notary make per visit?

Because travel adds value, income can grow quickly. A single loan signing appointment often pays $75-$200, especially when you're also certified for notary signing services.

Is it hard to become a mobile notary?

It is simple, the start-up cost is fairly low and you can work either part-time or full-time. 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.

Four Different Ways to Make Money as a Remote Online Notary

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Are online notaries in high demand?

The online notarization industry has seen significant growth in demand in recent years, but 2026 is proving to be a critical moment in the industry's development. Remote notarization has become a necessary function in real estate, legal, financial, healthcare, and compliance with workflows.

What exactly does a virtual notary do?

It is the online equivalent of an in-person, paper-based notarization where every part of the process is done via the Internet. In addition, and in contrast to other forms of remote notarization, remote online notarization: Uses electronic documents, signatures and Notary seals.

What are the risks of using a virtual notary?

Risk of Fraud – Although security measures are in place, remote notarization still presents risks of identity fraud and forgery, especially if verification methods are not stringent enough.

What are the downsides of being a notary?

A mistake could result in a lawsuit

Notaries may also have to deal with different forms of documentation and people, which may cause confusion and increase the chances of making a mistake that could result in a lawsuit.

Is remote online notary worth it?

Remote online notarizations are more secure than traditional, in-person notarizations through a number of key security features, but perhaps the greatest fraud deterrent is the recorded video session.

Can I do notary work as a side hustle?

Becoming a Notary Public is one of the most flexible and trusted side gigs available today. Whether you want a work-from-home opportunity, a part-time job outside the house, or a way to add credibility to your freelance services, a Notary commission can unlock multiple income streams.

What equipment do I need for online notary?

Becoming a remote notary requires essential equipment such as a computer or laptop, a reliable internet connection, a webcam, a microphone, and a digital signature pad. Ensuring you have the necessary equipment in place will help you navigate the remote notarization process effectively and efficiently.

How do I become a virtual notary?

In most states, the typical procedure is the following

  1. Meet the State Requirements. ...
  2. Get a Digital Certificate and eNotary Seal. ...
  3. Insure Your Practice. ...
  4. Choose a Provider for Identity Proofing and Credential Analysis. ...
  5. Complete a Training. ...
  6. Submit Application Form via Secretary of State's Website.

What is the difference between an e-notary and a remote notary?

In-person electronic notarization: The principal is in the Notary's physical presence, and signatures are electronic. The Notary may use an electronic seal. Remote ink-signed notarization: The principal appears before the Notary remotely using video conference technology like Skype or Zoom.

How much does a virtual notary cost?

Get California Remote Online Notary Service Fast Just $25

Thanks to our super fast notarization feature, you can have any contract notarized virtually in less than five minutes, we may receive commissions when you make purchases. However, this does not impact your cost or legal terms.

Do remote notaries make money?

Topping the list is Zena, NY, , with Ramblewood, PA, and Minkler, CA, close behind in the second and third positions. Minkler, CA, beats the national average by $61,341 (94.7%), and Zena, NY, furthers that trend with another $68,780 (106.2%) above the $64,777 average.

Will notaries be replaced by AI?

The Bottom Line. AI is a powerful resource, but it will never replace the personal involvement of a commissioned notary public. Notaries must continue to follow the laws and rules that govern their role, personally carrying out each step of a notarization.

Can you live off being a notary?

Not every NSA or mobile Notary wants to make it a full-time career. In fact, more than 61 percent notarize as a part-time gig. But even part-timers report they are doing well, reporting earnings ranging from anywhere as low as a few hundred dollars to $20,000 a month from notarizations.

What's the most a notary can charge?

States can set a maximum notary fee that notaries can charge. Many notaries charge on a per signature basis. Did you know that a handful of US states don't regulate the fee? This means that the notary public can set their own fees, but the highest notary fee in states that regulate it is $20.

What's higher than a notary?

Finally, Medallion Signature Guarantees are typically more expensive than Notary services. This is because the financial institution providing the guarantee assumes liability for the transaction and must have insurance to cover any losses.