MA Notary Notary Fees and Compensation 2

Question 1

Can a Massachusetts notary charge extra for rush or after-hours notarizations?

Accepted Answer

Yes, premium fees for rush or after-hours service are permissible with advance disclosure

Answer

No, all notarizations must be priced equally

Answer

Only for remote online notarizations

Answer

Only with Secretary of State approval

Question 2

What should a Massachusetts notary do if a signer disputes the fee after the notarization is complete?

Accepted Answer

Attempt to resolve the dispute amicably; if the fee was properly disclosed in advance, the notary is entitled to it

Answer

Refuse to return the documents

Answer

Void the notarization

Answer

Contact the Secretary of State immediately

Question 3

In Massachusetts, if a notary performs two notarial acts on the same document for the same signer, how many fees may be charged?

Accepted Answer

A fee may be charged for each separate notarial act performed

Answer

Only one fee regardless of acts

Answer

Two fees only if the document is a real estate instrument

Answer

No fee can be charged for multiple acts

Question 4

Can a Massachusetts notary public advertise their notary services for a fee?

Accepted Answer

Yes, notaries may advertise their services and fees

Answer

No, advertising notary services is prohibited

Answer

Only through attorney-approved channels

Answer

Only in newspapers, not online

Question 5

A Massachusetts notary who also holds a law license — can they charge legal fees in addition to notary fees for the same transaction?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but only for legal services that are separately rendered from the notarial act

Answer

No, dual fees are always prohibited

Answer

Only for real estate closings

Answer

Only with the client's written consent approved by the bar

Question 6

Is it considered improper for a Massachusetts notary to accept a tip or gratuity above their stated fee?

Accepted Answer

No, voluntarily offered gratuities are generally acceptable

Answer

Yes, any amount above the fee is illegal

Answer

Only gratuities over $20 are prohibited

Answer

It depends on whether the notary is an employee