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One of the hardest decisions notaries face is knowing when it’s time to raise their rates. It feels uncomfortable at first. You don’t want to scare off clients or seem too expensive, but at the same time you can’t keep charging beginner rates forever if you want your business to grow. The truth is, raising your fees is a natural and necessary part of building a sustainable notary business, whether you’re in Canada or the U.S.
Let’s break down how to know when you’re ready and how to do it with confidence.
Signs It’s Time to Raise Your Rates
If you’ve been in business for a while, you’ve probably already noticed a few of these signs:
You’re consistently booked and turning down work because your schedule is full
Your experience and certifications have grown, but your rates haven’t caught up
Travel costs, supplies, or insurance have gone up, and your fees aren’t covering your true expenses
Newer notaries in your area are charging close to or more than you
When you see these indicators, it’s your signal that it’s not only okay but necessary to make an adjustment.
How to Raise Rates Without Losing Clients
The way you present a rate increase matters. Most clients understand that prices rise over time, especially when you’ve proven your value. Here are a few ways to make the transition smoother:
Give Notice – Let repeat clients know in advance. A simple message like, “Starting next month, my standard fee will be…” shows professionalism
Highlight Your Value – When you share your new rate, mention the added value you bring, such as certifications, reliability, or specialized services
Stay Confident – If you present your new rate with hesitation, clients will sense it. State it simply and move on
Offer Options – For high-volume or long-time clients, consider a loyalty arrangement or package pricing so they still feel appreciated
Real-Life Example
Think of it like this: imagine a notary who started out charging $45 per mobile signing. Over time, they added training, purchased a better printer, and built a track record of flawless closings. They’re still charging $45, but now their expertise is worth much more. Clients aren’t just paying for a signature, they’re paying for peace of mind and professionalism. That deserves fair compensation.
The Bottom Line
Raising your rates is not about being greedy. It’s about respecting your time, skills, and the quality of service you provide. When you do it thoughtfully and communicate clearly, most clients will understand and continue working with you.
Your notary business is meant to grow, and your rates should grow with it.
✅ Ready to take the next step in scaling your notary business? Join us inside The Notary Blueprint® Community, where we teach you not just how to raise your rates but how to build a thriving, profitable business with confidence.
