Notary Pricing & Timing
FAQs About Costs, Fees, and Appointment Scheduling
How is notary pricing typically structured in Ontario?
Notary pricing in Ontario generally follows several models, and understanding these helps you budget. Most notaries charge a per-document or per-signature fee (the most common model)—so notarizing one affidavit might cost $20-40, and notarizing 3 travel consent letters might cost $60-120 total. Some notaries charge hourly rates, particularly for complex matters or extended sessions—typically $50-150 per hour depending on their experience and location. Mobile notaries (who travel to you) often charge a travel fee in addition to the notarization fee—for example, $40 notarization fee plus $50-100 travel charge. Some notaries offer package deals, particularly for multiple documents notarized in one session. Remote Online Notarization (RON) is sometimes cheaper than in-person since there's no travel, but pricing varies. Location affects price—downtown Toronto notaries might charge more than those in smaller towns. The key is that notary fees are regulated but not set by law in Ontario, so different notaries set their own rates. There's no "official" price list; notaries are required to post their fees clearly so clients can compare. Always ask for pricing when booking—transparency is important, and reputable notaries will quote you before you commit.
Does getting multiple certified copies from one original cost more?
Typically, no—most notaries charge the same or only slightly more for creating multiple certified copies from one original during a single appointment. This is one advantage of batching your notarization needs. If you need 3 certified copies of your birth certificate, many notaries will charge a single notarization fee and create all 3 copies, rather than tripling the cost. This encourages clients to be efficient and get all copies they anticipate needing upfront rather than returning multiple times. However, each notary's pricing model differs, so confirm when booking. Some notaries might charge per copy ($10 per certified copy, for example), while others charge per document ($25 to certify any number of copies of one document). If you're getting certified copies, asking "How much to certify 1 copy versus 5 copies?" clarifies pricing and might influence whether you get extras as backups. Generally, the cost differential between 1 copy and multiple copies of the same document is minimal, making it financially smart to get several if you might need them in the future.
How quickly can I get a notarized document—is same-day notarization possible?
Same-day notarization is absolutely possible and increasingly common, particularly with mobile notaries and Remote Online Notarization. If you call a notary in the morning, you can often secure an appointment for that afternoon or early evening. Mobile notaries are particularly flexible for same-day requests since they travel to you based on your schedule. Remote Online Notarization is even faster—many notaries can schedule appointments within hours, even if you call midday. This makes RON ideal for urgent situations. In-office notarization might have slightly longer wait times if the notary is already booked, but even then, flexibility for rush appointments is common. The key is that notarization isn't complicated—it typically takes 15-30 minutes once you're with the notary, so there's no inherent reason for long delays. However, availability depends on the notary's schedule and workload. If you need same-day service, calling early (morning is best) and explaining urgency increases your chances. Some notaries charge rush fees for expedited same-day appointments, while others accommodate it at standard rates. Turnaround after your appointment is usually quick—you receive your notarized documents immediately for in-person appointments, or within hours to 1 business day for remote notarization. For less urgent matters, scheduling a day or two in advance usually accommodates any notary's calendar without rush fees.
Do travel or mobile notary fees vary based on distance?
Yes, typically they do. Most mobile notaries have a base travel fee for nearby locations (say, within 5 km of their office) and increasing fees for farther distances. A common structure is: within 5 km = $50 travel fee, 5-15 km = $75, 15-25 km = $100, and so on. Some notaries charge per kilometer traveled (for example, $1-2 per km). Very distant locations might have a higher minimum or might not be covered depending on the notary's service area. A few mobile notaries have a service radius—for example, "I serve Toronto and Mississauga but not outside this range." When booking a mobile notary, provide your location and ask for a travel fee quote before committing. Some notaries are generous for evening appointments or longer wait times; others adjust pricing based on urgency. If cost is a concern, booking appointments during the notary's regular business hours or traveling to their office instead might be cheaper than paying travel fees. However, for time-strapped clients or those with mobility challenges, travel fees are often well worth the convenience. Compare: spending $80 on a mobile notary versus 2+ hours of your personal time plus gas traveling to an office location—the value calculation varies by situation.
Are evening and weekend notary appointments available, and do they cost more?
Many notaries offer evening and weekend appointments specifically to serve working professionals and busy families. Evening availability (into 8-9 PM) is common among mobile notaries. Weekend appointments (Saturday/Sunday) are less universally available but offered by many, particularly those serving clients who can't access services during work hours. Pricing for these off-hours appointments varies. Some notaries charge their standard rate for evening and weekend appointments, appreciating the ability to serve clients with demanding schedules. Others charge a premium—for example, 1.5x the standard fee for evening appointments or 2x for Sunday appointments. A few notaries offer a flat premium for all off-hours services (e.g., an extra $25-50 regardless of document type). Remote Online Notarization tends to be more flexible for off-hours scheduling since the notary isn't traveling. If you need evening or weekend notarization, mention this when booking so the notary can confirm availability and quote pricing. Some notaries actually prefer evening/weekend clients because it allows them to serve more people. Don't hesitate to ask about these time slots—your situation might be exactly what a notary has made their schedule flexible to accommodate.
Can I get a cost estimate before booking a notary appointment?
Absolutely, and you should always ask. When you call or email a notary, describe what you need notarized (e.g., "I need an affidavit notarized," "I need 3 travel consent letters," "I need 5 certified copies of my birth certificate") and your preferred service type (in-office, mobile, online). Provide your location if considering mobile notarization. A professional notary will quote you the anticipated cost before you schedule. If it's a straightforward matter (like a single affidavit), the quote will be definitive. If there are variables (like the complexity of your specific document), the notary might provide a range ("typically $30-50 depending on complexity") and confirm the exact price upon review. This transparency allows you to budget and compare notaries' pricing. If a notary refuses to quote upfront or is evasive about fees, that's a red flag—walk away and find another notary. Most reputable notaries have posted fee schedules on their websites or will email you detailed pricing. Also ask about: Are there any additional charges beyond the base notarization fee (like supply costs, certification seal fees)? What payment methods are accepted? Is there a cancellation policy or rescheduling fee? Getting these details upfront prevents surprise charges later and ensures you're working with a transparent, professional notary.
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