Top 10 Places to Find a Notary Public in Massachusetts

Key Takeaways

• Massachusetts passed a Remote Online Notarization (RON) law in 2023, but the state hasn’t activated it yet.
• Notaries in Massachusetts can’t perform online notarization, but residents can use online notaries commissioned in other states.
• There is no fee cap for notary services in Massachusetts, so confirm pricing before meeting a notary in person. Online pricing will follow the fee caps of the state where the notary is located.
• Bring a valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID to your notary appointment, and only sign your document when the notary is watching. 
• Online notary services are the fastest, most convenient way to complete your document.

Introduction

You need a Massachusetts notary public and the clock is ticking. You call your bank, but the notary has already left for the day. Your town hall offers an appointment next week, but that’s too late. Fortunately, finding a notary in Massachusetts is easier than you might think.

This guide shows you where to look, what each option costs, and how to finish online in minutes.

Skip the search and book your online notary appointment now.

Is Online Notarization Legal in Massachusetts?

Yes, online notarization is legal in Massachusetts. In 2023, Massachusetts passed a permanent Remote Online Notarization (RON) law. RON lets a notary in Massachusetts notarize documents using secure live video.

Here’s the catch: According to the Secretary of the Commonwealth, notaries must first complete official state training and file an online notification form. But the form and the training don’t exist yet. The state’s guidance is clear, however: Massachusetts notaries should not use online platforms right now.

But there is a work around. Many online notary services use notaries commissioned in states where RON is already active. It’s legal and done every day. Always make sure that whoever receives your document accepts online notarization first, however. For the full story, check out Can I Notarize a Document from Another State?

“A notary follows the laws of the state where they are commissioned, no matter where your document came from. As long as the notary is properly commissioned and follows their state’s rules, the notarization is valid. And that validity is recognized across state lines.” — Talia Wang, Notary Public

Top 10 Places to Find a Notary Public in Massachusetts

Here are the top 10 places to find a notary, with the pros and cons of each option.

Mobile notary vs. Online Notary

Both options bring the notary to you, but they solve different problems.

A mobile notary travels to your location for an in-person notarization. This is suitable if you’re in the hospital or you want a face-to-face appointment without leaving home. You pay the notary fee, plus a travel charge that can vary due to distance or by how quickly you need the document notarized.

An online notary meets you over live, secure video. You upload your documents, verify your identity, and sign on camera. This is often faster and cheaper than using a mobile notary because there is no travel fee. Just confirm that your recipient accepts online notarization first.

For speed and convenience, using an online notary is typically the better choice.

In a rush? Meet with a notary online and complete your document in about 7 minutes.

Massachusetts Notary Costs

Massachusetts is unusual because it doesn’t set a maximum fee for notary services. Prices can vary, so always confirm costs before your appointment. Online pricing will follow the fee caps of the state where the notary is located.

For a complete look at notary pricing, see our guide on how much a notary public costs.

How to Prepare for Your Notary Appointment

Here’s what you need to do to ensure your appointment goes smoothly:

• Bring valid government-issued photo ID: Use a current driver’s license or a passport, for example. 
• Do not sign early: Complete your document but don’t sign it yet. You must sign in front of the notary.
• Bring all signers: Every signer must attend the appointment and bring their own current government-issued photo ID.
• Bring your own witnesses (if applicable): Each witness must provide current government-issued photo ID.

Important note: Your document is not complete until it is signed and notarized. Drafting is only the first step in the process. For more information, read our guide on getting your documents ready for a notary public.

Next Step: Complete Your Documents Online

Simple mistakes could leave you scrambling. Here’s what to do to finish quickly:

1. Prepare your document. Make sure it’s filled out completely, but don’t sign it before your appointment.
2. Gather your valid government-issued photo ID. It must be current/not expired.
3. Choose your notary option. In-person, mobile, or online.
4. Book your appointment. Book your online notary appointment for the fastest option and have your document notarized from any device with a Wi-Fi connection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Online Notarization Legal in Massachusetts Right Now?
The law exists, but the state hasn’t activated it yet. Not to worry though! You can use an online notary service with a notary commissioned in another state. This is done every day and it’s completely legal.

How Much Does a Notary Cost in Massachusetts?
There is no state fee cap on common notarial acts. Always confirm pricing before your appointment. If you’re using a mobile notary, there will also be a travel fee added. Online pricing will follow the fee caps of the state where the notary is located.

Some websites talk about a $1.25 fee cap set forth in G. L. c. 262, § 41, but this applies only to a particular notarial act called ‘noting’. This is a step in the process of protesting a dishonored negotiable instrument (a signed, written document that serves as a secure, legally binding substitute for physical cash). The law doesn’t limit the fees for any other act by notaries. 

Can I Get my Massachusetts Real Estate Deed Notarized Online?
Lenders and title companies may require a traditional “wet” ink signature and an in-person notarization. If they do accept online notarization, confirm if your specific document type is eligible before booking your appointment.

Full real estate closings must be completed by an attorney. A notary employed by an attorney may notarize a document in conjunction with a real estate closing conducted by the attorney. And a notary employed by a lender may notarize a document in conjunction with the closing of that lender’s real estate loans. 

Do I need to get my Massachusetts Will Notarized?

No, you do not need to get your Massachusetts Will notarized to make it legally valid. However, it must be signed in front of two adult witnesses who also sign the document. Your witnesses should not be people who stand to inherit anything from the Will.

It’s a good idea to include a self-proving Affidavit with your Will. This means you and your witnesses swear under oath that the Will was signed properly. This Affidavit eliminates the need to track down your witnesses to verify their signatures after you pass away. This document must be notarized.

Conclusion

Finding a Massachusetts notary public is easy, with options including government offices, banks, libraries, and online notary services. What is the right choice boils down to your document type, your budget, and your deadline. Just remember — your document isn’t valid until it’s been notarized. When you want to skip the search and finish quickly, booking your online notary appointment is the simplest way to do it.

Book your online notary appointment today and complete your document in minutes.