What is required before a notary can charge for services?

Before a notary can charge for services, it is essential that they disclose any service fees in advance. This requirement ensures transparency and allows the signer to be informed about potential costs before proceeding with the notary's services. It protects consumers from unexpected fees and promotes fair business practices.

Disclosing service fees in advance builds trust between the notary public and the client, facilitating an ethical and professional relationship. It is important for notaries to communicate their fees clearly to avoid any misunderstandings during the notarization process.

While a business license might be necessary for operating a notary service, it is not a requirement specifically tied to the act of charging fees. Similarly, while it is good practice for notaries to post their fees publicly, it is not a mandated requirement for charging for their services. Obtaining permission from the state is not a prerequisite for determining fee structures, as the state does not control individual business transactions in this manner. Instead, the focus is on prior disclosure to the client.