What is the maximum notary fee in California?

Asked by: Laisha O'Conner  |  Last update: May 15, 2025
Score: 4.5/5 (47 votes)

California permits notaries to charge up to $15 for each notarized signature. This cap applies to standard acts, such as acknowledging signatures on documents like affidavits and deeds. Certifying copies costs around $15 per copy, ensuring price transparency.

How much can you charge as a notary in California?

Notarization fees are regulated by California state law and are generally low-cost. So how much does a notary charge? In most cases, a California notary public may charge a maximum notary fee of $15 for each signature. This includes writing the certificate, affixing the notary stamp, and acknowledging the signature.

What's the most 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.

How much do notaries make in California per signature?

In California, notaries can charge $15 per notarial act. In Florida, Arizona, Michigan, and others, notaries can charge $10.

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.

California Notary Fees in 2023: What You Need to Know

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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.

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 do notary signing agents get paid?

Notary Signing Agents are paid after the assignment has been completed. The payment terms usually are stated in the agreement you signed with the contracting company. Each company you work for will have their own rules. You should follow any procedures and duties for receiving payment that are outlined in the contract.

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.

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.

Do banks have notaries?

Most banks have notaries that provide the service for free for their customers and for a fee for non-customers. A document is notarized when a third party, known as a notary public, verifies your identity and witnesses you signing the document.

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.

How much does ups charge for notary in ca?

UPS notary fees in California often adhere to state regulations, which cap fees at $15 per signature for acknowledgments and jurats. These charges generally apply uniformly across many UPS locations. Additional services, such as document copying or faxing, might incur extra costs.

How long is a California notary commission?

A notary public in California is commissioned for a four year term. They must then sit for another course to review any updated notary laws, and also take another exam.

How much do notaries make per closing?

In California, the maximum fee notaries can charge per signature is $15. However, notaries often earn additional income through: Travel fees for mobile notary services. Loan signing packages (ranging from $75 to $200+ per signing)

Who uses notary services the most?

What types of businesses benefit the most from having a Notary on staff?
  • Insurance companies.
  • Mortgage companies.
  • Title companies.
  • Corporations — of any type.
  • Real-estate companies.
  • Construction companies.
  • Schools — public or private of all levels.
  • Any other company that requires notarization on a regular basis.

Is it hard to get business as a Notary?

It's not instant and it's not easy. Few Notaries find high-paying and rewarding work when first starting out. A crucial part of getting business is finding and introducing yourself to potential customers. While every Notary's community is different, here are some good places to get started.

How much do most notaries charge?

Standard Notary Fees in Los Angeles

Most notary fees in LA are about $15 per signature for standard documents. This rate is for simple and basic notarizations, such as acknowledgments, jurats, and oath-taking, which are the most common tasks notaries perform.

What do California notaries charge?

Standard Fees

California permits notaries to charge up to $15 for each notarized signature. This cap applies to standard acts, such as acknowledging signatures on documents like affidavits and deeds. Certifying copies costs around $15 per copy, ensuring price transparency.

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 do remote notaries make in California?

How much does a Remote Notary make in California? As of Jan 19, 2025, the average annual pay for a Remote 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.

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.