Michigan Notary Fees and Compensation Flashcards

If a document contains three separate signatures each requiring notarization, what is the maximum total fee a Michigan notary may charge?

Answer: $30

Since each signature requiring notarization is a separate notarial act, the notary may charge up to $10 per act, totaling $30 for three acts.

A Michigan notary who overcharges for a notarial act may be subject to which penalty?

Answer: A fine and possible revocation of commission

Charging fees above the statutory maximum can result in fines and potential revocation of the notary's commission.

A notary employed by a bank notarizes loan documents for bank customers. Who typically pays the notary fee?

Answer: The bank may absorb the cost as a business service

Banks often absorb notary fees as part of their service, and the notary-employee may be prohibited by the employer from collecting fees personally.

May a Michigan notary accept a gratuity (tip) in addition to the maximum statutory fee?

Answer: No, any payment above the statutory maximum is prohibited

Michigan law sets a strict maximum per notarial act, and accepting payment above this cap—whether called a tip or otherwise—would constitute overcharging.

Which document serves as the best evidence if a fee dispute arises regarding a Michigan notary's services?

Answer: The notary's journal entry recording the fee charged

A notary's journal is the primary record of services performed and fees charged, making it key evidence in any fee dispute.

A Michigan notary charges $10 per notarial act but the document signer refuses to pay. What should the notary do?

Answer: Refuse to perform the notarization until payment is arranged

A notary is not obligated to perform services without payment and may decline to proceed if the agreed fee is not paid.