California Legislature Considers Notary Fee Increase

Most real estate transactions rely on one small but powerful act. A notary verifies identity, witnesses a signature, and places a seal on documents that can transfer ownership of property worth hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars.

California lawmakers are now considering Assembly Bill 1597, a proposal that would update the maximum fees notaries may charge for certain services. The bill has been introduced but has not yet passed.

The current fee limits went into effect January 1, 2017. Since then, the statutory maximum for an acknowledgment or jurat has stayed at $15.00 even as compliance requirements and costs have increased. AB 1597 proposes a $5.00 per notarial act increase for acknowledgements, jurats, administering the oath in a deposition, certification of a deposition, and certifying copies of powers of attorney.

Supporters argue these updates reflect the realities of modern notary practice. Notaries must verify government issued identification, maintain detailed journals, safeguard their seals, obtain a bond, complete required education and testing, and often carry errors and omissions insurance. The responsibilities are significant because the consequences of error can be severe.

From the consumer perspective, the question is whether modest fee adjustments help preserve access to qualified notaries statewide. Real estate transactions frequently involve strict deadlines. Loan documents, deeds, and trust instruments must be properly notarized to be valid and recordable. If fewer individuals are willing to serve as notaries under outdated fee limits, availability can decline, especially in rural or underserved communities.

There is also a security dimension. Notaries are a frontline defense against fraud. With growing concern over forged deeds and identity theft involving property transfers, proper identification and documentation help protect property owners and reduce disputes.

AB 1597 has not yet been enacted, and its final outcome remains uncertain. But it highlights a practical reality for real estate consumers. The fee structure for notarizations in California has not been updated in a decade, even though the role has become more demanding. Whether or not this bill passes, the debate reflects the importance of keeping notary standards strong, access available, and fraud safeguards effective in real estate transactions.