If you live in Virginia and are thinking about becoming a notary, or you're simply curious about notary fees in the state, understanding how much you can legally charge is important. Notary services play a key role in many personal and business transactions—like signing real estate documents, affidavits, powers of attorney, and more. But there are legal limits and guidelines that notaries in Virginia must follow when setting their fees.
Let’s explore how much you can charge for notary public services in Virginia, what the law says, and some helpful tips to stay compliant while running a trustworthy notary business.
Understanding Notary Fees in Virginia
In Virginia, notaries are public officials appointed by the state to witness signatures and administer oaths. The Commonwealth of Virginia has set clear maximum fees that a notary may charge for each notarial act. These limits are established under § 47.1-19 of the Code of Virginia.
As of the current law, the maximum fees allowed are:
Acknowledgments: $5 per signature
Jurats (like affidavits): $5 per signature
Oaths or Affirmations: $5 per person
Certified Copies (when allowed): $5 per copy
These fees are the maximum you can charge, but you can choose to charge less—or offer your services for free in some cases, such as for friends or community services.
What About Mobile or Traveling Notary Fees?
Mobile notary services, where the notary travels to the signer’s location, are becoming more popular, especially in real estate, elder care, and business transactions. In Virginia, while the state limits the fee for the notarial act itself, it does not regulate how much you can charge for travel or convenience fees.
This means you are free to set your own travel charges, as long as they are reasonable and agreed upon before the appointment. To avoid disputes, many notaries include these fees on an invoice or clearly state them in writing before providing services.
A mobile notary in Virginia, for example, might charge $25 to travel within a local area, and more for longer distances or after-hours service. Always be upfront with your pricing.
Standard Practices for Notaries in Virginia
Notaries should always:
Provide a receipt upon request
Display their notary commission certificate if asked
Keep a logbook or journal (not required in Virginia, but highly recommended)
Never charge more than the legal maximum for the notarial act itself
If you're offering notary public services in Virginia, it's good practice to also stay up-to-date with changes in state laws and consult with the Secretary of the Commonwealth for any updates.
Online and Remote Notary Services
Virginia is one of the first states to allow remote online notarization (RON), meaning a notary can perform services via video call, without being physically present. This is especially useful for clients who are out of town, in hospitals, or working remotely.
RON services must be done through an approved technology platform and follow strict identification procedures. These services also allow notaries to reach more clients, though the same fee limits still apply for the notarial act itself. Additional platform or service fees may be charged separately.
Opportunities for Notaries in Virginia
While the individual notary act fees may seem modest, notaries in Virginia can build successful businesses by offering multiple services. Many combine notary work with real estate signings, estate planning documents, and even apostille services.
A notary public who adds value through mobile services, professionalism, and fast response times can easily stand out in the local market.
Why Experience and Trust Matter
When people need documents notarized—especially legal or real estate paperwork—they often look for trusted professionals who are not only certified but also responsive and reliable. That’s where businesses like Anaia Signings earn their reputation. Known for their professionalism, attention to detail, and ability to handle urgent requests, they’ve become a trusted name across Virginia. With services ranging from estate planning to mobile notarizations, they’re a reliable option when quality and care matter most.
Tips for Clients Seeking Notary Services
If you're hiring a notary in Virginia, keep these tips in mind:
Always ask about fees before scheduling
Bring valid ID with you (state-issued ID, passport, etc.)
Review your documents ahead of time but don’t sign them until the notary instructs
Confirm whether you need a mobile notary or remote service
If you're looking for notary public services in Virginia, be sure to check for licensed and bonded professionals who follow the state’s fee guidelines and provide transparent service.
Final Thoughts
In Virginia, the fee for most notarial acts is capped at $5, but notaries can still build a successful service business by offering mobile services, remote notarizations, and combining other related offerings. Whether you're a new notary or someone needing a trusted professional, understanding these rules helps everyone stay protected and informed.
Comments
0 comment