Notary income varies widely depending on where you live, whether you offer mobile services, and how many appointments you take per week. The good news? In most states, notaries can earn solid extra income on a flexible schedule, and mobile notaries can earn even more.
This guide breaks down how much do notaries make, how pricing works, and real-world earning examples by state.
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How Notary Fees Work (Quick Breakdown)
Notaries typically earn money from two sources:
1. The notarization fee (set by the state)
Most states have a legally defined maximum fee, usually $5 to $25 per signature.
2. Travel fees (set by YOU)
This is where notaries make real money.
A typical appointment fee looks like:
| Service | Income Example |
|---|---|
| 2 signatures | $10–$40 (state max varies) |
| Travel fee | $20–$50+ |
| Total | $30–$90 per appointment |
Even doing 3–4 appointments per week can bring in $300–$600 per month.
How Much Notaries Make Per Month (General Averages)
| Type of Notary | Monthly Income |
|---|---|
| Standard Notary (no travel) | $50–$300/month |
| Mobile Notary | $300–$1,500/month |
| Loan Signing Agent | $1,000–$7,000/month |
Mobile notaries earn the most because they set their own travel rates.
Notary Income by State (What You Can Charge)
State laws determine the maximum fee per notarization. Here are examples from common states where people search for notary income:
Florida
- Max fee: $10 per signature
- Travel fee: Unlimited (set by you)
- Average monthly income: $300–$1,200 (mobile)
👉 Click here for our complete guide to becoming a notary in Florida.
Texas
- Max fee: $6 per signature
- Travel fee: $0.35 per mile (standard) or market-based for mobile notaries
- Average monthly income: $250–$1,000
California
- Max fee: $15 per signature
- One of the highest-paying states
- Average monthly income: $400–$1,500+
New York
- Max fee: $2 per signature (low)
- BUT mobile travel rates can be $30–$75
- Average monthly income: $200–$900
Georgia
- Max fee: $2 per signature
- Travel fees allowed and common
- Average monthly income: $200–$800
Arizona
- No max fee. Notaries may charge “reasonable fees”
- Huge advantage over other states
- Average monthly income: $500–$1,500
Washington
- Max fee: $10 per signature
- Mobile work is popular
- Average monthly income: $300–$1,200
What Real Notaries Actually Earn (Examples)
These examples assume mobile work with a basic travel fee.
Example 1: Busy Single Parent, Limited Time
- 2 appointments per week
- $30 travel + $10 in signatures = $40 per appointment
- Monthly total: $320
Example 2: Evening & Weekend Notary
- 5 appointments per week
- Average $65 per appointment
- Monthly total: $1,300
Example 3: Loan Signing Agent (Part-Time)
- 4 signings per week
- $75–$150 per signing
- Monthly total: $1,200–$2,400
Expenses to Expect (Not Much)
Startup cost is low, usually $90–$150, including:
👉 Notary Stamp Kit (Amazon)
👉 Notary Log Journal (Amazon)
👉 Notary Travel Bag (Amazon)
Annual or 4-year renewal fees are also inexpensive.
Why Mobile Notaries Earn So Much More
Mobile notaries charge:
- A flat travel fee
- Additional fees for after-hours appointments
- Extra fees for printing documents (loan signings)
For example:
- $10 for notarization
- $35 travel fee
- $25 after-hours surcharge
Total for a 10-minute appointment: $70
Is Becoming a Notary Worth It?
Yes, especially if you’re a single parent looking for a flexible, low-pressure way to earn extra income.
Why it’s worth it:
- Low startup cost
- Quick certification
- Unlimited travel fees
- Appointments are short
- High demand year-round
And you can scale up into loan signing work later. Becoming a notary is one of the best side hustles for single parents.
FAQ
How much do notaries earn per hour?
Most mobile notaries earn $30–$80 for a 10–20 minute appointment, which is effectively $60–$200 per hour.
Do notaries get paid by the signature?
Yes, states set a max fee per signature, but travel fees greatly increase earnings.
Can notaries work from home?
Yes, especially in states that allow remote online notarization (RON).
Do notaries make good money?
Notaries who offer mobile services or loan signings can earn $300 to $7,000 per month, depending on availability.
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