Pricing is one of the most misunderstood—and most emotional—topics in the notary world. Ask ten notaries how they charge, and you’ll likely get ten different answers, each backed by strong opinions and personal experience. Some swear by flat fees. Others refuse to move away from per-signature pricing. Many bounce between the two, depending on the situation.
So what actually works best?
The truth is, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. However, there is a right answer for your business model, your ideal client, and your long-term goals. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of flat fees versus per-signature fees allows you to price confidently, communicate clearly, and build a notary business that is both compliant and profitable.
Let’s break it all down—step by step.
Why Pricing Strategy Matters More Than You Think
Your pricing structure is not just about money. Instead, it affects:
- Client expectations
- Workflow efficiency
- Legal compliance
- Stress levels during appointments
- Long-term scalability
When your notary pricing is unclear or inconsistent, clients hesitate. Worse yet, they may challenge your invoice after the signing is complete. On the other hand, when your pricing is transparent and intentional, clients trust you more—and trust leads to repeat business.
That’s why understanding flat fees vs per-signature fees is essential for any professional notary.
Understanding Per-Signature Fees
Per-signature fees are the traditional pricing method for notaries, especially in general notary work. In this model, you charge a specific amount for each notarized signature, based on what your state allows.
Why Per-Signature Fees Exist
Most states regulate notary fees and cap how much you can charge per notarization. As a result, per-signature pricing developed as the standard because it aligns neatly with notary statutes.
Advantages of Per-Signature Fees
1. Statutory clarity
Per-signature fees are easy to justify because they are clearly defined by law.
2. Simplicity for basic notarizations
For single documents like affidavits, powers of attorney, or sworn statements, this method works well.
3. Easier compliance
New notaries often feel safer charging per signature because it feels more “by the book.”
Challenges of Per-Signature Fees
However, per-signature fees come with real drawbacks.
1. Client confusion
Clients rarely understand how many signatures will need notarization until the appointment is over. That creates awkward conversations.
2. Time is undervalued
Per-signature pricing ignores travel time, printing, scanning, identity verification, and appointment coordination.
3. Income unpredictability
You may spend an hour on a signing only to earn a small fee if there are limited notarizations.
4. Friction at payment time
Clients sometimes feel nickel-and-dimed when each signature adds to the total.
Because of these issues, many experienced notaries begin to explore flat fees.
What Are Flat Fees?
Flat fees bundle your services into a single, upfront price. Instead of charging per notarized signature, you quote one fee that covers the entire appointment.
This approach is increasingly common in mobile notary work, loan signings, trust signings, and remote online notarization.
Why Flat Fees Are Gaining Popularity
Flat fees reflect the true value of your work. They account for:
- Appointment setup
- Travel or platform usage
- Document handling
- Client communication
- Professional expertise
Instead of charging for stamps alone, you charge for the experience.
Benefits of Flat Fees for Notaries
1. Clear expectations
Clients know the cost upfront, which reduces disputes.
2. Better time compensation
You are paid for the entire service, not just the notarization itself.
3. Professional positioning
Flat fees make you look like a service provider—not a commodity.
4. Faster payments
There’s less back-and-forth, which means fewer delays in getting paid.
5. Scalability
Flat fees work well when you begin handling higher-value signings or working with attorneys and businesses.
When done correctly, flat fees can significantly improve both your income and your peace of mind.
The Compliance Question: Flat Fees vs Per-Signature Fees
This is where many notaries get nervous—and rightfully so.
Staying Compliant with Flat Fees
Flat fees are generally allowed as long as you clearly separate:
- The statutory notarial fee
- Additional service fees (travel, convenience, admin time, technology)
Transparency is key. You are not charging more for the notarization. Instead, you are charging for everything that surrounds it.
Clear invoices and explanations protect both you and your client.
Which Pricing Model Works Best for Different Notary Services?
General Notary Work
Per-signature fees often make sense here, especially for walk-in or simple notarizations.
Mobile Notary Appointments
Flat fees work better because travel time and scheduling effort are involved.
Loan Signings
Flat fees are the industry standard and reflect the complexity of the work.
Estate Planning Signings
Flat fees shine here. Trusts, wills, and powers of attorney involve multiple documents, client education, and longer appointments.
Remote Online Notarization (RON)
Flat fees are almost essential due to platform costs, identity verification, and session management.
In most cases, as services become more complex, flat fees outperform per-signature fees.
The Client Psychology Behind Pricing
Pricing is not just math—it’s psychology.
Clients prefer certainty. When they see a flat fee, they feel safer. They know what they’re agreeing to. Meanwhile, per-signature fees feel unpredictable, even if the total ends up being lower.
When clients feel confident, they say yes faster.
A Hybrid Approach: The Best of Both Worlds
Many successful notaries use a hybrid model:
- Per-signature fees for simple, in-office notarizations
- Flat fees for mobile, estate, business, and RON services
This approach gives you flexibility while maintaining compliance and clarity.
How Pricing Impacts Your Brand
Your pricing structure sends a message.
Per-signature pricing often signals:
- Transactional service
- High volume, low margin
- Commodity positioning
Flat fees often signal:
- Professional service
- Expertise
- Value-based pricing
Neither is wrong—but they attract different types of clients.
The Role of Technology in Supporting Flat Fees
Flat fees work best when your business systems are professional and streamlined. That means:
- Online scheduling
- Clear service descriptions
- Professional websites
- Automated communication
This is where many notaries struggle—and where the right platform makes all the difference.
Build a Pricing Model That Supports Growth
Ask yourself:
- Do I want high volume or high value?
- Do I prefer simple signings or complex appointments?
- Do I want to work with the public or with professionals?
Your answers should guide whether flat fees or per-signature fees dominate your pricing model.
Common Pricing Mistakes to Avoid
- Undercharging because of fear
- Over-explaining pricing during appointments
- Mixing pricing models without clarity
- Ignoring administrative time
- Failing to document service fees
Avoiding these mistakes instantly makes your business more sustainable.
Why Professional Presentation Matters
Even the best pricing strategy fails without professional presentation. Clients expect clarity, confidence, and ease of use.
A strong online presence reinforces your pricing model and builds trust before the appointment ever begins.
Final Thoughts: So… Which One Works Best?
Flat fees vs per-signature fees is not about right or wrong. It’s about alignment.
Per-signature fees work best for:
- Simple notarizations
- Walk-in clients
- Statute-focused services
Flat fees work best for:
- Mobile notaries
- Estate planning signings
- Remote online notarization
- Business and attorney clients
The most successful notaries understand both—and use them strategically.
Ready to Elevate Your Notary Business?
If you want to present your services professionally, explain your pricing clearly, and attract higher-quality clients, your online presence matters more than ever.
👉 Visit https://www.notarywebplatform.com to see how notaries are building commission-safe, professional websites that support flat fees, per-signature pricing, and everything in between.