Becoming a notary public can be a surprisingly rewarding side hustle or even a full time career. But one of the most common questions people ask is: how much does a notary public make?
The answer depends on where you live, how much you work, and whether you offer additional services like loan signing, mobile notarization, or remote online notarization.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- The average notary public salary in different states.
- How notaries earn money.
- What affects notary income.
- How to make more money as a notary.
- The difference between a notary public and a loan signing agent when it comes to pay.
What Is a Notary Public?
A notary public is an official appointed by the state government to witness and authenticate the signing of important documents. Notaries prevent fraud by verifying the identity of signers and ensuring documents are signed willingly.
Notaries handle various legal and financial documents such as:
- Real estate deeds
- Wills and trusts
- Loan documents
- Power of attorney forms
- Business contracts
By providing this essential service, a notary acts as a trusted third party in both personal and business transactions.
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How Much Does a Notary Public Make on Average?
The average notary public salary in the U.S. ranges between $35,000 and $70,000 per year, depending on your state and experience level.
However, this range can change significantly:
| Type of Notary | Average Annual Income |
|---|---|
| General Notary Public | $25,000 – $45,000 |
| Mobile Notary Public | $40,000 – $65,000 |
| Remote Online Notary (RON) | $50,000 – $75,000 |
| Loan Signing Agent | $75,000 – $125,000 |
Key insight: Traditional notaries earn less because they often charge per notarization (typically $5–$15), whereas mobile or loan signing agents handle higher value documents and can charge travel and service fees.
Factors That Affect Notary Public Income
Several factors influence how much a notary public makes. Let’s explore the most important ones:
a. Location and State Laws
Each state sets its own maximum notary fee per signature.
For example:
- California: Up to $15 per notarization
- Texas: Up to $6 per notarization
- New York: $2 per signature
High demand areas with real estate activity or business centers tend to offer more notarization opportunities.
b. Work Type Part-Time vs Full Time
Many notaries start part time as a side income source.
A full-time notary public or mobile notary can complete multiple appointments daily, increasing earnings significantly.
- Part-time notary public income: $10,000–$25,000/year
- Full-time notary public income: $50,000–$100,000+/year
c. Experience and Reputation
A new notary may earn less initially, but with a good reputation, positive reviews, and reliable service, your client base grows fast.
Adding services like loan signings or document courier services can double your income.
d. Type of Documents Notarized
Not all documents are equal in terms of pay.
For instance, notarizing a mortgage package pays far more than notarizing a single affidavit.
High paying categories:
- Real estate closings
- Mortgage documents
- Business agreements
- Legal affidavits
How Do Notaries Get Paid?
Most notaries charge per signature notarized or per appointment.
Common payment methods include:
- Fixed fee per document (based on state law)
- Travel fee (for mobile notaries)
- Convenience or after hours charges
- Signing fees for large document packages (loan signings, refinance packages)
Example:
A mobile notary in California might earn $15 per notarization + $25 travel fee per client. Handling 5 clients daily could bring in $200–$300 per day, or $4,000–$6,000 per month.
Notary Income by State
| State | Average Annual Salary | Typical Fee per Signature |
|---|---|---|
| California | $60,000 – $80,000 | $15 |
| Texas | $45,000 – $65,000 | $6 |
| Florida | $50,000 – $70,000 | $10 |
| New York | $40,000 – $55,000 | $2 |
| Arizona | $55,000 – $75,000 | $10 |
| Illinois | $35,000 – $50,000 | $1 |
| Georgia | $45,000 – $60,000 | $2 |
How to Make More Money as a Notary Public
If you’re wondering how to go beyond average notary income, here are proven strategies:
a. Become a Loan Signing Agent
Loan signing agents specialize in real estate closing documents and can earn $75–$200 per appointment.
You’ll need a Notary Commission, loan signing certification, and E&O insurance to get started.
b. Offer Mobile or Remote Services
Offer mobile notarization or remote online notarization (RON) to reach more clients.
- Mobile notary: Travels to clients’ locations.
- Remote online notary: Performs notarization over video platforms.
Both models allow flexible hours and higher earnings per session.
c. Partner With Real Estate Agents and Law Firms
Build partnerships with businesses that frequently need notarization.
Examples include:
- Mortgage companies
- Title companies
- Law firms
- Auto dealerships
This ensures steady work and recurring income.
d. Build an Online Presence
Create a Google Business Profile or a simple website listing your services, fees, and contact info.
This helps clients find you when they search for “notary public near me.”
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Common Expenses for Notaries
Running a notary business involves minimal costs, but here’s what to budget for:
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Notary Commission Fee | $30 – $120 |
| Notary Bond | $50 – $100 |
| Notary Journal & Seal | $25 – $50 |
| E&O Insurance | $100 – $200/year |
| Background Check | $30 – $50 |
| Mobile Equipment | $100 – $300 |
After the initial setup, profits can scale fast with consistent bookings.
Is Becoming a Notary Worth It?
Absolutely if you approach it strategically.
Being a notary public is a low barrier, high flexibility business. It offers steady income, low overhead, and the ability to grow into other legal or business services.
For many, notarization becomes the first step toward launching a loan signing, document preparation, or mobile business.
Final Thoughts:
Understanding how much a notary public makes depends on effort, specialization, and strategy.
While a general notary might earn a modest income, those who invest in loan signing certification and online visibility can make it a full time, six figure career.
To grow faster:
- Get certified as a loan signing agent.
- Offer remote and mobile services.
- Build partnerships and online reviews.
- Stay updated with your state’s notary laws.
FAQs About How Much Does a Notary Public Make
Q1: How much can a notary public make a month?
A notary can make between $2,000 and $6,000 per month, depending on their schedule and services.
Q2: Can you make six figures as a notary?
Yes. Notary signing agents who handle real estate and loan closings can easily make $100,000+ annually.
Q3: Is becoming a notary difficult?
No. Most states require a short application, background check, and passing a simple exam.
