Maryland Notarization Fees for Individuals (Non–Real Estate Documents)

This article explains how Maryland Notarization Fees for Individuals (Non–Real Estate Documents) are calculated, including the difference between original and duplicate signatures.

One of the most common questions we receive is:

“How are notarization fees calculated?”

This article explains how Maryland notarization fees are calculated for individuals requesting non–real estate notarizations.Many people assume that one document equals one notarization. In Maryland, notarization fees are based on signatures, not documents—and duplicate copies are calculated differently than originals.

What Counts as a “Signature” in a Notarization?

In notarization, a signature refers to each notarized signature line, not each document.

Here’s what that means in practice:

• One document signed by one person = one notarized signature

• One document signed by two people = two notarized signatures

• Two different documents signed by the same person = two notarized signatures

Each notarized signature is treated individually, even if multiple signatures appear on the same document.

What Are “Original” Signatures?

An original signature is the first notarized version of a document at a signing appointment.

Examples:

• A Power of Attorney signed once by one person = one original signature

• A deed signed by two signers = two original signatures

• A document notarized for the first time = original signature(s)

Original signatures are billed at the standard Maryland notarial fee.

What Are Duplicate Signatures?

Duplicate signatures apply only when the same document is signed more than once during the same appointment.

Duplicate signatures are not for different documents. They apply only to additional notarized copies of the same document.

Key rules in Maryland:

• Duplicate signatures are billed at half the original signature rate

• Different documents are never considered duplicates of each other

• Duplicate signatures must be signed during the same appointmentCommon Example (This Is Where Confusion Often Happens)

  Let’s say you are signing:

  Document A

  • 1 original copy

  • 2 additional copies

  Document B

  • 1 original copy only

  How this is calculated:

  Document A

  • 1 original signature

  • 2 duplicate signatures (same document, signed again)

  Document B

  • 1 original signature

  Total notarized signatures:

  • 2 original signatures

  • 2 duplicate signatures - Even though there are multiple documents and copies, duplicate pricing applies only within the same document, not across documents.

  • Additional documents—even if they look similar—are always treated as original signatures.

  • Only names that appear in the notarial certificate are counted as notarized signatures.

    • 

      Maryland Notarization Fees for individuals (Non–Real Estate Documents)

      For non–real estate notarizations in Maryland, notarial fees are regulated by state law.

      As of January 12, 2026, the statutory fees are:

    • $8 per original notarized signature

    • $4 per duplicate notarized signature

    • Plus applicable travel and mileage fees, if the notary travels to you

    • Travel fees are separate from notarial fees and are disclosed in advance.

Real estate and loan signing services are professional engagements and are not subject to the same per-signature statutory limits.

Witness Signatures: An Important Clarification

Many documents—especially Powers of Attorney and estate planning documents—include witness signature lines.

However:

• Only signatures included in the notarial certificate (the notary section of the document) are counted for notarization

• Witness signatures outside the notarial certificate are not notarized, even if a witness signs the document

• Some documents include witness signature lines that do not require notarization

If witnesses are required and their signatures must be notarized, those signatures are counted individually and their names are included in the notarial certificate. If you are unsure, we are happy to review your document in advance.

How to Prepare Before Your Appointment

To receive the most accurate estimate, it helps to know:

• How many people will be signing

• How many documents require notarization

• Whether any document requires more than one notarized copy at the same appointment

• Whether witnesses are required, and if so, whether their signatures require notarization

If you’re unsure, that’s completely normal. You may schedule an appointment and optionally upload your document(s) for review so we can help confirm the final number of notarized signatures before your signing. We will assess your documents at the signing to confirm the number of notarized signatures and will update the fee as appropriate.

Final Thought

Clear expectations lead to smoother notarizations. Understanding how original and duplicate signatures are calculated helps you:

• Avoid unexpected costs

• Schedule the appropriate amount of time

• Ensure your documents are completed correctly the first time

If you have questions, we’re always happy to help you determine what applies before your appointment.

Have questions about notarization? Visit our Notarization FAQ

Felecia Bass, Notary Public/Title Insurance Producer Independent Contractor

White Rose Notary Services LLC

Silver Spring MD

www.whiterosenotary.com