As a business owner or individual who always needs notary services, finding affordable options can make a big difference in your end result, notary fees can add up quickly, especially if you need notarization for multiple documents on a regular basis. luckily, there are several ways you can locate high-quality yet affordable notary services in your local area.
In this post, we'll explore 5 proven ways to find an affordable notary service that meets your needs. Whether you're looking to notarize sales contracts, loan documents, powers of attorney, or any other general notary work, these tips can help you save money without giving up service quality. Let's get started!
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1. Check Your Local Bank or Credit Union
One of the easiest places to find affordable notary services is at your local bank or credit union. Many financial institutions offer notary services as a free or low-cost benefit for their customers. This can be a wonderful suitable option, as you're likely visiting your bank already for other financial needs.
The key benefits of using your bank's notary services include:
- Low or no fees: Many banks provide notarization at no additional cost to account holders. Others may charge a small fee, often $5 or less per signature.
- Accessibility: Bank notaries are available during regular branch hours, making it easy to get documents notarized on your schedule.
- Familiarity: You already have a normal relationship with your bank, so you can feel confident in the quality and trustworthiness of their notary services.
To take advantage of this option, simply inquire at your bank's front desk or customer service about their notary offerings. Be sure to bring any documents that need to be notarized, as well as a valid government-issued ID.
2. Make use of Online Notary Marketplaces
In recent years, the rise of online notary marketplaces has transformed the way people access affordable notary services. These digital platforms connect individuals and businesses with a network of licensed, background-checked notaries who can provide remote or in-person notarization.
Some key benefits of using an online notary marketplace include:
- Competitive pricing: Online notaries often charge lower fees than traditional in-person options, with many offering services starting at $25 or less per signature.
- Convenience: You can request notarization 24/7 and have a notary arrive at your location or complete the process remotely via video conference.
- Variety of services: In addition to general notarization, online marketplaces may offer specialized services like certified copies, apostilles, and more.
- Flexibility: Many online notary providers allow you to schedule appointments on-demand or set up recurring notarization needs.
Some popular online notary marketplaces to look into include The Notary Folks, Notarize, SignNow, and NotaryLive.
“Be sure to read reviews, compare pricing, and select a provider with a proven track record of quality service.”
3. Check with Professional Associations
Another smart way to find affordable notary services is to connect with professional associations related to your industry or business needs. Many organizations maintain directories of screened, trusted notaries who offer discounted rates to members.
Examples of professional associations that may be able to help you locate affordable notary services:
Need a Notary? Your Industry Network Might Help!
Are you in real estate, legal, or own a small business? Great news! Your professional network could be the key to finding an affordable notary.
- Real Estate Pros: Reach out to your local realtor board or property management association. They might recommend notaries who specialize in real estate closings and can keep your costs down.
- Legal and Financial Folks: Organizations like the American Bar Association, state bar associations, and finance/accounting groups often have notary referral services for their members. Check them out!
- Small Business Owners: Chambers of commerce, small business centers, and entrepreneur organizations can connect you with notary services tailored to your business needs. No need to reinvent the wheel!
Expand Your Search and Leverage Your Connections
Contact any professional associations you already belong to, or research relevant groups in your area. Ask them for notary recommendations. They might even be able to negotiate a discount for you!
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4. Explore Municipal and Government Resources
Examples of municipal and government resources for affordable notary services include:
- County Clerk's Offices: The clerk's office in your local county courthouse often has notaries on staff who can provide notarization services, normally for a small fee.
- City/Town Halls: Depending on your location, your municipal government building may house a notary public who can assist residents and businesses.
- Secretary of State Offices: At the state level, Secretary of State offices often offer notary services, sometimes at discounted rates.
- Public Libraries: Some public library branches have notaries available, either for free or a small charge, as a service to the community.
- County Clerk's Offices: The clerk's office in your local county courthouse often has notaries on staff who can provide notarization services, normally for a small fee.
- City/Town Halls: Depending on your location, your municipal government building may house a notary public who can assist residents and businesses.
- Secretary of State Offices: At the state level, Secretary of State offices often offer notary services, sometimes at discounted rates.
- Public Libraries: Some public library branches have notaries available, either for free or a small charge, as a service to the community.
“The key advantage of using government-based notary services is that the fees are often significantly lower than private notary signing agents or mobile notary companies. However, availability and hours may be more limited, so be sure to check the specific policies and procedures in your area”
5. Make use of Your Network
Here are some ways to tap into your network for affordable notary services:
- Ask Around at Work: Your colleagues might know of a notary within your company who offers discounted services.
- Check with Local Businesses: Small business owners often have reliable and affordable notaries they use regularly. Ask for recommendations!
- Spread the Word: Maybe a friend, family member, or neighbor is a notary willing to offer a discount. It's worth asking!
Find Affordable Notaries Online!
Local Facebook groups, Next door, and other online communities are treasure troves for recommendations on affordable notaries. Bonus? You might even find someone you already know and trust! Just remember to check their credentials before getting started.
Finding Affordable Help is Easy!
The tips in this post – from checking with your bank to asking your network – make finding a great notary a breeze. With a little research, you can save money without sacrificing quality or convenience.
Don't let the cost of notary services hold you back. Discover the affordable options available to you from us and streamline your general notary work today. Click the button below to explore our services and pricing and get started.
