Mobile Notary vs UPS Store Notary: Which Is Better?
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If you need something notarized, your first thought might be to head to the nearest UPS Store. It is a reasonable choice for simple documents during business hours. But it is not the only option, and sometimes it is not the best one. Here is how mobile notaries and UPS Store notaries compare.
UPS Store Notary
Many UPS Store locations have a notary on staff. Walk in with your unsigned document and a valid photo ID, and they can notarize it on the spot, assuming the notary is working that day.
- Pros: Convenient if you live near one, no appointment needed (usually), standard per-signature fee set by your state
- Cons: Limited to business hours, the notary may not be available when you show up, some locations limit document types, no travel to you
Mobile Notary
A mobile notary travels to your location: home, office, hospital, coffee shop, wherever works. They set their own hours, which often include evenings and weekends.
- Pros: Comes to you, available outside business hours, handles a wider range of document types (including loan packages), experienced with complex signings
- Cons: More expensive (travel fee on top of notarization fee), may require advance booking
Side-by-Side Comparison
| UPS Store | Mobile Notary | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | State fee per signature ($5-$15 typical) | State fee + travel fee ($50-$150) |
| Location | You go to them | They come to you |
| Hours | Business hours only (Mon-Sat) | Flexible, including evenings/weekends |
| Appointment | Usually walk-in | Scheduled in advance |
| Document types | Simple docs (affidavits, POA, permissions) | Simple + complex (loan packages, real estate closings) |
| Availability | Not always guaranteed; call ahead | Guaranteed once booked |
| Multiple signers | All signers must be present at the store | All signers can be at one location |
Cost Breakdown
The UPS Store charges your state’s maximum per-signature fee. In most states, that is $5-$15 per signature notarized. There are no additional fees unless you need copies.
A mobile notary charges the same per-signature fee plus a travel fee that covers their time and transportation. Travel fees typically range from $50-$150 depending on distance, time of day, and whether it is a weekend or evening call. Loan signings cost more because they involve 100+ pages of documents and take 1-2 hours. Expect $125-$250 for a standard refinance or purchase closing.
When to Use Each
Use the UPS Store when:
- You need a single document notarized during business hours
- You live or work near a location with a notary
- Cost is your primary concern
- You need a simple acknowledgment or jurat
Use a mobile notary when:
- You cannot travel (hospitalized, homebound, no transportation)
- You need notarization outside business hours
- You have a real estate closing or loan signing
- Multiple signers are in one place
- You have a large stack of documents and do not want to wait at a counter
- The signer is in a nursing home, hospital, or assisted living facility
Other Places to Find a Notary
Beyond the UPS Store and mobile notaries, you can find notaries at banks and credit unions (often free for account holders), public libraries, county clerk offices, law offices, and shipping centers like FedEx Office. Some real estate offices and insurance agencies also have notaries on staff.
Before You Go to the UPS Store
- Call ahead. Not every UPS Store has a notary, and the notary may not be working when you plan to visit. Some locations have limited notary hours.
- Bring valid photo ID. A driver’s license, passport, or state ID.
- Do not sign ahead of time. The notary must witness your signature or acknowledge that you signed willingly.
- Know what type of notarization you need. Acknowledgment, jurat, or copy certification. If you are not sure, tell the notary what the document is for.
- Bring all pages. Do not bring just the signature page. The notary may need to see the full document.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the UPS Store charge for notary services?
Yes. UPS Stores charge the state’s maximum per-signature notarization fee. Some locations may also charge for additional services like photocopying. The notarization fee itself is set by your state, typically $5-$15 per signature.
Does every UPS Store have a notary?
No. Notary availability varies by location. Some stores have a notary on staff, others do not. Always call before visiting to confirm the notary is available.
How much does a mobile notary cost?
Expect to pay the state’s per-signature fee plus a travel fee. Total cost is typically $75-$175 depending on distance, time of day, and number of documents. Loan signings cost more ($125-$250).
Can a mobile notary handle loan signings?
Yes, if they are a signing agent. Signing agents are notaries with additional training who specialize in real estate and loan documents. The UPS Store typically does not handle loan signings.
Do I need an appointment for a mobile notary?
Usually yes. Mobile notaries schedule appointments in advance. Some may be available same-day for emergencies, but booking ahead is better.
