Question 1

Does every UPS Store offer notary services?

Accepted Answer

No, notary services vary by individual store location and franchisee. It's crucial to call your local UPS Store ahead of time to confirm availability, operating hours for notary services, and if an appointment is required. This helps avoid wasted trips, especially if you're on a tight deadline for a real estate closing or other time-sensitive documents.

Question 2

What is the typical fee for notary services at The UPS Store?

Accepted Answer

Notary fees at The UPS Store are determined by state law, not by UPS corporate. Typically, fees range from $2 to $15 per signature notarized, depending on your state's statutory maximum. For example, California caps fees at $15 per signature, while Texas is $6 for an acknowledgment. Always verify the specific fee with your local store.

Question 3

Do I need an appointment for a notary at The UPS Store?

Accepted Answer

While some UPS Stores accept walk-ins, it's highly recommended to call ahead and inquire about their specific policy. Many locations, especially those with high demand, may require an appointment to ensure a notary is available and to minimize your wait time, which is crucial when notarizing time-sensitive documents like loan papers.

Question 4

What forms of identification are accepted by a UPS Store notary?

Accepted Answer

A UPS Store notary will require a current, government-issued photo identification that includes a signature, such as a state driver's license, state ID card, or U.S. passport. The ID must not be expired. Always bring a valid, unexpired ID to ensure your document can be notarized without delay.

Question 5

Can The UPS Store notarize all types of documents?

Accepted Answer

Generally, The UPS Store notaries can notarize most common documents like affidavits, power of attorney forms, and deeds. However, they typically cannot notarize certified copies of vital records (birth, death, marriage certificates) or documents that do not have the proper notarial certificate wording. Always confirm with the store for specific document types.

Question 6

Are there extra fees for multiple signatures or pages?

Accepted Answer

Notary fees are almost always charged per signature, not per page. If a document requires multiple people to sign and have their signatures notarized, or if one person signs in multiple capacities requiring separate notarizations, each signature will incur a separate fee, up to the state's maximum.

Question 7

What if my document is not in English? Can it still be notarized?

Accepted Answer

A notary's role is to verify identity and witness signatures, not to interpret document content. As long as the document has the appropriate notarial certificate in English or a language the notary understands (for the certificate wording), and you understand what you are signing, it can typically be notarized. The notary cannot translate or advise on the document's content.

Question 8

How are notary fees at The UPS Store determined?

Accepted Answer

Notary fees at The UPS Store are strictly regulated by the state in which the notarization occurs. Each state sets a maximum allowable fee per notarial act (e.g., per signature or per acknowledgment). The UPS Store cannot charge more than this statutory limit, though they may charge less.

Question 9

Is there a flat fee for notarization at UPS, or does it vary?

Accepted Answer

It generally varies per notarial act. There isn't a single flat fee for all services. If a document requires multiple signatures to be notarized, each signature will incur a separate fee, up to the state's maximum. For example, a document with two signers needing acknowledgment would typically be charged twice the per-signature fee.

Question 10

Can I get a discount on notary fees if I have many documents?

Accepted Answer

It's unlikely The UPS Store offers discounts for bulk notarizations, as their fees are often set at or near the state-mandated maximum per notarial act. However, it doesn't hurt to inquire with your specific store, especially for a large volume of personal documents. For business clients, dedicated mobile notaries might offer package rates.

Question 11

What is the difference between an acknowledgment and a jurat fee?

Accepted Answer

Both are common notarial acts with state-defined fees. An acknowledgment certifies that the signer appeared before the notary and acknowledged signing the document. A jurat certifies that the signer appeared, signed the document in the notary's presence, and took an oath or affirmation regarding the truthfulness of the document's contents. Fees are typically the same per act.

Question 12

Are there any hidden fees I should be aware of?

Accepted Answer

Generally, no. Notary fees are transparent and regulated by state law. The only "hidden" aspect might be additional charges for printing or copying documents if you don't bring them ready, or if you need to purchase an envelope for mailing, but these are separate from the notarial act itself. Always ask for a clear breakdown if unsure.

Question 13

Does The UPS Store charge for witnesses if required for my document?

Accepted Answer

The UPS Store notaries are typically not permitted to act as witnesses themselves, nor do they provide witnesses. If your document requires witnesses in addition to notarization (common for wills or certain deeds), you will need to bring your own impartial witnesses. There is no notary fee associated with witnessing, only with the notarial act itself.

Question 14

What are the notary fees for real estate documents at UPS?

Accepted Answer

Notary fees for real estate documents at The UPS Store follow the same state-mandated per-signature fee structure. If a deed or mortgage document requires multiple signatures to be notarized, each signature will be charged individually, up to the state's maximum. Be prepared for potentially several notarizations within a single closing package.

Question 15

Can I get a Power of Attorney notarized at The UPS Store, and what's the cost?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can typically get a Power of Attorney (POA) notarized at The UPS Store. The cost will be the standard state-regulated fee per signature. Ensure the POA is fully drafted and ready for signature, and that the principal (person granting power) has a valid ID and understands the document.

Question 16

Are affidavits and sworn statements notarized differently, or cost more?

Accepted Answer

Affidavits and sworn statements typically require a "jurat" notarial act, where the signer takes an oath or affirmation. The fee for a jurat is usually the same as for an acknowledgment, as determined by state law. The key difference is the verbal oath administered by the notary.

Question 17

What about notarizing wills or trusts at The UPS Store?

Accepted Answer

While a notary at The UPS Store can notarize signatures on wills or trusts, these documents often have specific witness requirements in addition to notarization, which the notary cannot provide. It's crucial to consult legal counsel regarding proper execution and witness requirements for estate planning documents, and to bring your own witnesses if needed.

Question 18

Can immigration documents be notarized at UPS, and what's the fee?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many immigration documents that require a notarized signature can be handled at The UPS Store for the standard state-regulated fee per signature. However, remember that a notary is not an immigration consultant and cannot provide legal advice or assist in filling out forms.

Question 19

Is there a specific fee for notarizing business contracts or agreements?

Accepted Answer

Notary fees for business contracts or agreements are the same as for personal documents, adhering to the state's maximum per-signature fee. Companies often use UPS Stores for quick notarization of vendor agreements, corporate resolutions, or internal documents. Ensure the signer has authority and proper ID.

Question 20

What should I bring with me to The UPS Store for notarization?

Accepted Answer

You should bring the complete, unsigned document(s) that need notarization and a valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's license, passport). Do not sign the document until you are in the presence of the notary.

Question 21

What if my ID is expired or doesn't match the name on the document?

Accepted Answer

An expired ID cannot be accepted for notarization. The name on your ID must also substantially match the name on the document to be notarized. If there's a significant discrepancy or an expired ID, the notary will legally be unable to perform the service.

Question 22

Are there any documents The UPS Store cannot notarize?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The UPS Store notaries typically cannot notarize certified copies of vital records (birth, death, marriage certificates), photographs, or documents with blank spaces intended to be filled in later. They also cannot notarize documents if the signer does not appear in person (for traditional notarization).

Question 23

Can I use Remote Online Notarization (RON) at The UPS Store?

Accepted Answer

The UPS Store primarily offers traditional in-person notarization. They do not typically offer Remote Online Notarization (RON) services. If you require RON, you would need to seek out a dedicated online notary platform or a mobile notary who offers RON services, which allows notarization via webcam.

Question 24

What are the benefits of using a mobile notary instead of The UPS Store?

Accepted Answer

Mobile notaries offer convenience by traveling to your location (home, office, hospital), often outside standard business hours. While potentially costing more than a UPS Store notary due to travel fees, they can be invaluable for urgent needs, multiple signers, or complex loan signings where expertise and flexibility are crucial.

Question 25

How can I find a UPS Store with notary services near me?

Accepted Answer

The best way is to use The UPS Store's official website locator and filter for "notary services," or simply call your local branches directly to confirm availability, hours, and any appointment requirements. This is essential to avoid a wasted trip.

Notary Fees at UPS Store: Your Questions Answered

Need a notary?

Understanding UPS Store Notary Fees

Notarizing Specific Document Types

Practical Considerations & Alternatives

Summary

Pro Tips

Quick Answers