How much does a Notary make per Signature

Notaries are public officials appointed by the state government to witness and certify the signing of important documents. They play an essential role in preventing fraud and ensuring the legality of various transactions. As a result, the demand for notary services has been on the rise in recent years, and many people are wondering how much they can earn as a notary public.

The amount that a notary can make per signature varies depending on the state they are in. According to the National Notary Association, some states have set fees for notary services, while others allow notaries to set their own fees. In states where fees are not set by law, notaries can charge what they believe is reasonable for their services. However, it is important to note that notaries cannot charge more than the maximum amount allowed by law, which varies from state to state.

While notaries can charge different fees for different types of documents, the most common fee is per signature. The fee per signature can range from a few dollars to as much as $15, depending on the state and the type of document being notarized. Some states also allow notaries to charge additional fees for travel, printing, and other expenses. Overall, the amount that a notary can make per signature depends on various factors, including their location, experience, and the demand for their services.

how much does a notary make per signature
How much does a notary make per signature?

What is a Notary Public?

A Notary Public is an official appointed by the state government to serve as an impartial witness when important documents are signed. They act as a deterrent to fraud and ensure that the parties signing the documents are who they claim to be. Notaries are responsible for verifying the identity of the signers and ensuring they understand the contents of the document they are signing.

Notaries are authorized to perform a variety of duties, including administering oaths and affirmations, taking acknowledgements and affidavits, and certifying copies of documents. They can also witness the signing of wills, powers of attorney, and other legal documents.

The requirements to become a Notary Public vary by state but typically include passing an exam, undergoing a background check, and obtaining a bond. Notaries must also renew their commission periodically and stay up-to-date on changes to the law.

Notaries play an important role in the legal system by ensuring the validity of important documents. They are often used in real estate transactions, legal agreements, and other situations where the authenticity of a signature is crucial. Understanding the role of a Notary Public can help you navigate these situations with confidence.

Typical Notary Income

Notaries are public officials who are authorized to witness and certify the signing of legal documents. They play an essential role in the legal system, and their services are in high demand. One of the most common questions people ask about notaries is how much they can earn per signature. The answer varies depending on several factors, such as the state where the notary is located, the type of document being signed, and the notary’s experience and qualifications.

According to the National Notary Association’s 2020 Notary Survey, more than half of all full-time mobile notaries earn $2,000 or more a month. Nearly two-thirds of full-timers who have been in business for at least three years earn $4,000 or more a month, and 16 percent earn more than $7,500 a month. The average salary for a notary public in the United States, according to Indeed, is $16.67 per hour. However, this figure can vary depending on the state and the notary’s experience.

How much a notary can earn per signature also depends on the maximum amount they can charge for their services. Each state has different regulations, but notaries can usually charge between $2 and $5 per document or signature. Some states allow notaries to charge additional fees for travel, photocopying, and other services.

Notaries who work in specialized fields, such as real estate, can earn higher fees per signature. For example, a signing agent is a notary who specializes in witnessing and certifying the signing of real estate documents. According to the National Notary Association, signing agents can earn between $75 and $200 per signing, depending on the complexity of the transaction.

It is essential to note that notary income can vary significantly depending on the notary’s location, experience, and the demand for their services. Notaries who work in rural areas or small towns may earn less than those who work in urban areas with higher demand. Similarly, notaries who have been in business for several years and have built a reputation for their services may earn more than those who are just starting.

How Much Does a Notary Make Per Signature?

Notaries public are commissioned by state governments to serve as impartial witnesses in various legal transactions. They are authorized to administer oaths, take acknowledgements, certify copies of documents, and perform other duties specified by law. One of the most common services provided by notaries is the signing and notarization of documents, such as deeds, wills, powers of attorney, and loan agreements. Notaries charge fees for their services, which can vary depending on several factors.

how much does a notary make per signature
how much does a notary make per signature

Factors That Affect Notary Fees

The fees charged by notaries are typically regulated by state law, which sets the maximum amount that notaries can charge for each type of notarial act. However, notaries are free to set their own fees, as long as they do not exceed the statutory maximums. Some of the factors that can affect notary fees include:

  • The type of document being notarized
  • The number of signatures that need to be notarized
  • The complexity of the transaction
  • The location of the notary
  • The level of experience and training of the notary

Average Notary Fees by State

The fees that notaries can charge per signature vary by state. Some states have set fees, while others allow notaries to set their own fees. According to the National Notary Association, the average fee for a notarized signature is $10 to $15 per signature. However, fees can be as low as $2 per signature in some states and as high as $15 or more per signature in others.

Here is a table of the maximum notary fees per signature in some states:

StateMaximum Fee per Signature
California$15
Florida$10
New York$2
Texas$6

How to Increase Your Notary Earnings

Notaries can increase their earnings by offering additional services, such as mobile notary services, loan signing services, and document preparation services. Mobile notaries travel to clients’ homes or offices to perform notarial acts, which can be more convenient for clients who cannot travel to a notary’s office. Loan signing agents specialize in notarizing loan documents for mortgage lenders and title companies. Document preparation services involve assisting clients with the preparation of legal documents, such as wills and trusts.

Notaries can also increase their earnings by networking with other professionals in the legal and financial industries, such as attorneys, real estate agents, and bankers. Building relationships with these professionals can lead to referrals for notarial services.

How much does a Notary make per signature in different areas?

Notaries are public officials who certify the authenticity of signatures and documents. They are often needed for legal, financial, and real estate transactions. Notaries can charge a fee for their services, which varies depending on the state and location. In this section, we will explore how much a Notary makes per signature in different areas. In general, Notaries charge per signature or per document. The fee can range from a few dollars to over $10 per signature. According to the National Notary Association, the average fee for a Notary is $15 per signature. However, this can vary depending on the state and location. In some states, Notaries are allowed to charge a travel fee in addition to the per signature fee. For example, in California, Notaries can charge up to $15 for travel fees. In other states, such as New York, Notaries are not allowed to charge a travel fee. The fee for a Notary can also vary depending on the type of document being notarized. For example, loan documents may require additional certification and therefore may have a higher fee. In some cases, Notaries may also charge a fee for additional services, such as printing or copying documents. It’s important to note that Notaries are not allowed to charge more than the state’s maximum fee. Some states, such as Florida, have set maximum fees for Notaries. In Florida, the maximum fee for a Notary is $10 per signature. In conclusion, the fee for a Notary can vary depending on the state, location, and type of document being notarized. Notaries can charge per signature or per document, and in some cases, may also charge a travel fee or additional fees for services. It’s important to check the maximum fee allowed in your state and to compare prices from different Notaries before choosing one.

An Example: How to Become a Mobile Notary in California

Becoming a mobile notary in California is a great way to earn extra income. According to ZipRecruiter, the average annual pay for a Mobile Notary Signing Agent in California is $98,036 per year. However, becoming a notary public in California requires meeting certain requirements and completing specific steps.

How to Become a Mobile Notary in California
How to Become a Mobile Notary in California

Step 1: Meet the Requirements To become a notary public in California, one must meet the following requirements:

  • Be 18 years of age or older
  • Be a legal California resident
  • Complete a course of study approved by the Secretary of State
  • Satisfactorily complete and pass a written examination prescribed by the Secretary of State

Step 2: Complete a Course of Study To become a notary public in California, one must complete a course of study approved by the Secretary of State. The course must cover the following topics:

  • Notary Public Law
  • Notary Public Procedures
  • Ethics

Step 3: Pass the Written Examination After completing the course of study, one must pass a written examination prescribed by the Secretary of State. The examination covers the following topics:

  • Notary Public Law
  • Notary Public Procedures
  • Ethics
  • General knowledge of the laws and regulations related to the duties and responsibilities of a notary public

Step 4: Obtain a Notary Public Commission After passing the written examination, one must obtain a notary public commission from the Secretary of State. The commission is valid for four years. Step 5: Obtain a Surety Bond To become a notary public in California, one must obtain a surety bond in the amount of $15,000. The bond must be obtained from a licensed surety company. Step 6: Purchase Notary Supplies After obtaining a notary public commission and a surety bond, one must purchase notary supplies. These supplies include a notary seal, a notary journal, and other supplies required by law. Step 7: Market Yourself To become a successful mobile notary in California, one must market oneself effectively. This includes creating an internet presence, networking with other professionals, and advertising in local publications. In conclusion, becoming a mobile notary in California can be a lucrative and rewarding career. However, it requires meeting certain requirements and completing specific steps. By following the steps outlined in this section, one can become a notary public in California and start earning extra income as a mobile notary.

How Much Money Can You Make as a Notary?

Notaries are public officials authorized by the state government to witness and certify the signing of legal documents. They play a vital role in ensuring the authenticity of important documents, and their services are in high demand. But how much can a notary earn per signature? According to the National Notary Association, the fees for notary services vary by state and type of service provided. Most states allow notaries to charge a fee per signature, which can range from $2 to $15. Some states allow notaries to charge a travel fee in addition to the per-signature fee. The amount of money a notary can make per signature also depends on the type of document being notarized. For example, notarizing a mortgage document or a power of attorney may command a higher fee than notarizing a simple affidavit. On average, a notary can earn between $10 to $15 per signature. However, notaries who specialize in certain areas such as real estate or legal documents can earn significantly more. In fact, some notaries report earning up to $200 per hour for their services. It’s important to note that notary fees are regulated by the state government, and notaries cannot charge more than the authorized fee. However, notaries can charge less than the authorized fee if they choose to do so. In conclusion, the amount of money a notary can make per signature varies depending on the state, type of document, and experience. While notary services may not make someone rich, it can be a lucrative side gig or even a full-time career for those who specialize in certain areas.

Other Ways Notaries Can Make Money

Notaries can earn money in various ways other than charging per signature. Here are some additional services that notaries can offer to increase their income:

What Other Services Can a Notary Offer?

Notaries can offer a variety of services, including:

  • Taking oaths and affirmations
  • Witnessing signatures
  • Performing wedding ceremonies
  • Preparing and certifying copies of documents
  • Providing mobile notary services
  • Providing loan signing services
  • Performing remote online notarizations (RON)

Mobile Notary Services

Mobile notary services involve travelling to a client’s location to notarize documents. This service is convenient for clients who are unable to travel to a notary’s office. Mobile notaries can charge higher fees than traditional notaries due to the added convenience they provide.

Loan Signing Services

Loan signing services involve notarizing loan documents for real estate transactions. Notaries who specialize in loan signings can earn more than traditional notaries due to the complexity of the documents involved. Loan signing agents can earn anywhere from $75 to $200 per signing.

Remote Online Notarization (RON)

Remote online notarization (RON) involves notarizing documents online using audio and video technology. Notaries who are certified to perform RON can charge higher fees for this service. Most states set the maximum fee for a remote online notarization at $25. However, notaries should check their state’s regulations to determine the maximum fee they can charge.

Overall, notaries can earn a good income by offering additional services beyond charging per signature. By providing mobile notary services, loan signing services, and remote online notarization, notaries can increase their income and provide added value to their clients.

Further Reading About Becoming a Notary

Free Notary Classes Online

If you’re interested in becoming a notary but don’t know where to start, there are plenty of free online resources available to help you learn the ropes. Many state notary websites offer free training courses that cover the basics of notary law, best practices, and other important information. In addition, there are many online notary courses available that can help you learn the ins and outs of the profession. These courses cover everything from notary law to document preparation and can help you become a more knowledgeable and effective notary. Some of the best free online notary courses include:

Free Notary Classes Online
Free Notary Classes Online
  • Notary Public Education Program – offered by the National Notary Association
  • Notary Public Training – offered by the American Society of Notaries
  • Notary Public Education – offered by the National Association of Signing Agents

These courses are a great way to get started on your journey to becoming a notary and can help you gain the knowledge and skills you need to be successful in the profession.

Free Notary Classes Online – Summary

Becoming a notary can be a great way to earn extra income, help your community, and gain valuable skills and experience. Whether you’re interested in becoming a full-time notary or just want to earn some extra money on the side, there are plenty of resources available to help you get started. By taking advantage of free online courses, networking with other notaries, and staying up-to-date on the latest industry news and trends, you can build a successful and rewarding career as a notary.

Conclusion

Based on the information provided by the National Notary Association and other sources, the amount that a notary can make per signature varies widely depending on the state, the type of document being notarized, and other factors. However, it is clear that becoming a notary can be a lucrative career choice for those who are willing to put in the time and effort to build their business.

For mobile notaries and signing agents, the potential earning power is even greater. According to the NNA’s 2020 Notary Survey, more than half of all full-time mobile notaries earn $2,000 or more per month, with nearly two-thirds of those who have been in business for at least three years earning $4,000 or more per month.

While notary fees are not set by law in some states, it is important for notaries to be aware of the maximum fees that they can charge per signature in order to avoid overcharging or undercharging their clients. In addition, notaries should be aware of any travel fees that they may be able to charge, as well as any other fees that may be associated with their services.

Overall, becoming a notary can be a rewarding and profitable career choice for those who are willing to put in the time and effort to build their business. With the potential to earn a significant income per signature, as well as the flexibility to work on their own schedule, notaries can enjoy a fulfilling career helping others while also earning a good living.