Key Takeaways
- Maine does not set maximum notary fees by statute
- Notaries may charge reasonable fees for their services
- Fees must be disclosed to clients BEFORE the notarization
- Travel fees may be charged and must also be disclosed in advance
- Notaries may choose to provide services for free
Last updated: January 2026
Notary Fees
Maine is one of the states that allows notaries flexibility in setting their fees, subject to disclosure requirements.
Maine Fee Structure
| Aspect | Rule |
|---|---|
| Maximum fees | No statutory maximum |
| Who sets fees | Individual notary |
| Disclosure | Required before notarization |
| Travel fees | Permitted with disclosure |
Key Fee Rules
No Statutory Maximum
Unlike many states that set specific maximum fees (e.g., $2 per signature), Maine allows notaries to determine their own reasonable rates.
Disclosure Requirement
Important: While notaries can set their own fees, they must inform clients of all fees before the notarization takes place.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Timing | Before the notarization |
| Method | Verbal or written disclosure |
| Content | All fees including travel charges |
| Agreement | Client must agree to proceed |
Travel Fees
Notaries who travel to clients may charge additional fees:
| Consideration | Notes |
|---|---|
| Mileage | Based on distance traveled |
| Time | For extensive travel |
| After-hours | Premium for nights/weekends |
| Rush service | For urgent requests |
All travel fees must be disclosed in advance.
Fee Comparison: Maine vs. Other States
| State | Maximum Fee per Signature |
|---|---|
| Maine | No statutory maximum |
| Massachusetts | $2.00 |
| New Hampshire | $10.00 |
| Vermont | $10.00 |
| New York | $2.00 |
Best Practices for Fees
| Practice | Reason |
|---|---|
| Be consistent | Charge the same for similar services |
| Document fees | Keep records of fees charged |
| Provide receipts | Professional and creates record |
| Be reasonable | Excessive fees may harm reputation |
When NOT to Charge
Some notaries choose not to charge in certain situations:
| Situation | Consideration |
|---|---|
| Employer-required work | Often free as part of job |
| Family members | Personal choice |
| Military members | Courtesy (not required) |
| Charitable organizations | Personal choice |
Employer-Employed Notaries
If you're commissioned as a notary for your employer:
| Consideration | Notes |
|---|---|
| During work hours | May not charge if employer prohibits |
| Employer policy | Follow your employer's rules |
| Outside work hours | Generally free to charge |
| Personal notarizations | Check employer policy |
On the Exam
Key points:
- No statutory maximum fees in Maine
- Disclosure required before notarization
- Travel fees permitted with disclosure
- Reasonable fees expected
Test Your Knowledge
What is Maine's statutory maximum fee for a notarial act?
A
B
C
D
Test Your Knowledge
When must a Maine notary disclose their fees to a client?
A
B
C
D