What are the advantages of using USPS for notary services?
Asked by: Dr. Bradly Gutkowski V | Last update: January 27, 2026Score: 4.5/5 (51 votes)
Based on the search results, there is a common misconception regarding notary services at the United States Postal Service (USPS). The USPS does not actually provide general notary services at its locations.
Does the USPS charge to notarize?
The short answer is no. The United States Postal Service (USPS) does not provide notary services. While it may seem logical to assume that a government-run service like the postal service would offer notarizations, the reality is different.
How much does a post office charge to notarize?
The USPS doesn't offer notary services, but places like PostalAnnex, UPS Stores, and local postal centers do, typically charging around $10 to $15 per signature, though costs can vary by state (like California's $15 limit) and location, with walk-ins potentially costing more. You'll need a valid photo ID, must sign in front of the notary, and can often find services without appointments, but it's always best to call ahead to confirm fees and availability.
How much does UPS charge for a notary?
UPS Store notary costs typically range from $5 to $15 per signature, with many locations charging around $10 per principal signature, though prices vary by store, state law (which sets maximums, like $15 in CA), and document complexity. Always call your local UPS Store first to confirm their exact fee, as it depends on the number of people signing (principal) and specific state regulations.
Are UPS notary services legit?
I've used the UPS notary service. Of course it is legit. It was convenient and efficient and as others have mentioned there are usually co-workers or even other customers (at a pinch) who are willing to be witnesses.
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How much does The UPS Store charge for a notary public?
The UPS Store typically charges around $10 per signature (or principal's signature) that needs notarization, but fees and rules vary by location and state, with some charging differently for the first few pages, so it's essential to call your specific store first to confirm their current rates and services for documents like wills or deeds, as witness requirements differ.
Should I use UPS or USPS?
Neither UPS nor USPS is universally "better"; the best choice depends on your needs, with **USPS generally winning for small, lightweight, budget-friendly packages (under 13 lbs) ** and UPS excelling for heavier items, guaranteed delivery speeds, better tracking, and business shipping. USPS offers unmatched affordability and reach, especially for e-commerce, while UPS provides faster, more reliable tracking and time-definite options like Next Day Air for urgent shipments.
How long does a notarization at UPS usually take?
On average, our entire process takes less than 5 minutes. We hope you'll join the countless happy customers who have notarized their documents online with us.
Are UPS notaries qualified?
Notary public at a The UPS Store location is not an attorney licensed to practice law in this State. He or she is not allowed to draft legal records, give advice on legal matters, including immigration, or charge a fee for those activities.
Are there alternatives to using the UPS store notary?
Most banks and credit unions offer notary services, often for free or at a low cost. UPS stores are another popular choice, with many locations offering notary services during business hours. If you need legal advice along with your notarization, a law office might be the way to go.
What is the most common mistake made by a notary?
The most common and serious mistake a notary makes is failing to ensure the signer personally appears before them, which is a legal violation and can lead to fraud and major penalties, but other frequent errors involve incomplete or incorrect notarial certificates, such as missing dates, improper seal placement, illegible stamps, mismatched names, or attaching the wrong certificate type, all of which can invalidate the document.
How to Notarize a document at USPS?
- Prepare your Form 1583 for notarization. Fill out your USPS Form 1583 and upload it to Proof. ...
- Provide proof of identity. Proof will ask you to upload two acceptable forms of ID (listed below) for identity verification and to validate the address on your USPS Form 1583.
- Connect with a live notary. ...
- Submit your documents.
How much does a mobile notary make per visit?
A mobile notary's earnings per visit vary significantly, but loan signing agents often make $75 to $200+ per appointment, while general mobile notary work can range from $30 to $100+ per trip, depending on location, travel distance, document complexity, and whether they work directly with clients or through signing services. Highly profitable mobile notaries focus on real estate closings (loan signings) or specialized niche markets, adding fees for travel, printing, and administrative tasks.
Can I get something notarized for free?
Notaries aren't always free; independent notaries charge fees, but you can often find free or low-cost services at banks (especially for customers), public libraries, and some government offices, with fees typically set per signature by the state for paid services.
Does Staples have notary services?
Yes, Staples offers notary services, primarily through online partnerships with providers like Notarize (in the US) and NotaryPro (in Canada), allowing for virtual notarization 24/7, though some physical stores might offer in-person options, so it's best to check your local store for specific availability. You can get documents notarized online using your device or visit specific store locations for assisted services, with fees typically around $25 for the first seal.
How much is it to get something notarized at UPS?
UPS Store notary costs typically range from $5 to $15 per signature, with many locations charging around $10 per principal signature, though prices vary by store, state law (which sets maximums, like $15 in CA), and document complexity. Always call your local UPS Store first to confirm their exact fee, as it depends on the number of people signing (principal) and specific state regulations.
Is UPS a legit notary?
Yes, UPS Store notary services are legitimate and legally valid for standard documents, offering convenience and cost-effectiveness, but they're typically general notaries who might not handle complex or sensitive documents like a specialized mobile notary or attorney would; always call ahead to confirm a notary is available and if they handle your specific document type.
Is online notarization cheaper?
The cost of online notarization varies, but generally ranges from $25 to $75 per document. Some platforms may charge per signature or have additional fees for extra services.
What will UPS not notarize?
The UPS Store generally won't notarize items like I-9 Employment Forms, wills, or documents involving property/real estate, and often avoids complex foreign documents or anything requiring a certified copy of vital records (like birth certificates) or that appears incomplete/handwritten, but it varies by location, so always call first, as individual notaries decide based on their comfort and state law.
Can I notarize a document myself?
In short, you cannot notarize your own documents. Despite having the technical understanding, it's against notary laws to certify your own paperwork. This rule was established to ensure that the notarization process remains unbiased and prevents any potential conflicts of interest or ethical problems.
Is notarize with proof legit?
Not only is it faster and more secure, notaries are online 24/7 and there's no waiting in line. Having performed millions of successful notarizations, Proof is the trusted platform for any critical document that need to be notarized.
What is cheaper, USPS or USP?
USPS Rates. Which is cheaper UPS or USPS, is a crucial question when comparing any shipping carriers. UPS is often more expensive than USPS due to fees and surcharges, especially when it comes to shipping smaller packages. Generally, USPS offers much better rates when shipping smaller packages of less than two pounds.
How reliable is the USPS?
Reputation for unreliability aside, USPS remains one of the most consistent shipping companies worldwide. USPS delivers over 700 million pieces of mail daily with a delivery success rate of upwards of 99%.
Does the USPS charge by weight or size?
USPS charges for both weight and size, using your package's actual weight but applying Dimensional Weight Pricing (DIM) for large, lightweight items, meaning you pay for whichever is greater: actual weight or calculated DIM weight. Prices increase with weight, but large, bulky boxes (over 1 cubic foot) trigger extra fees or higher DIM rates, even if light, because they take up more space.