When it comes to notarizing important documents, many people turn to either a UPS Notary service or a Mobile Notary service. However, which option is more cost-effective and convenient? In this detailed blog post, we’ll break down the costs, services, and benefits of both UPS and mobile notaries to help you make an informed decision.
What Are UPS Notary and Mobile Notary Services?
Notarizing documents is an essential part of many legal and business processes. Notaries help verify the authenticity of signatures and ensure that documents are signed under proper conditions. Here’s an overview of what UPS and mobile notaries offer:
What is a UPS Notary?
A UPS Notary is a professional who works at UPS Stores, providing notary services to customers. These services are typically available during the store’s regular business hours, making it easy for people to walk in and have their documents notarized. The UPS Store notary service is often used for quick and straightforward notarization needs.
What is a Mobile Notary, and How Do They Differ?
A mobile notary is a notary public who travels to a specified location to notarize documents. They are flexible and can come to your home, office, or any other location that is convenient for you. Mobile notaries are especially helpful if you need notarization services outside of regular business hours or in situations where visiting a physical location like UPS is not practical.
UPS Notary Costs vs. Mobile Notary Costs: Which is Better?
Now, let’s compare the costs and convenience of using a UPS Notary versus a Mobile Notary. Understanding these factors will help you determine which option is the most suitable for your needs.
1: Wide Availability
- UPS Notary: UPS Stores are found across many cities and towns, which means there is likely one near you. However, not every location offers notary services, so it’s important to check availability at your local store before heading there.
- Mobile Notary: Mobile notaries are also widely available, but their coverage can vary depending on location. They are generally more flexible and can travel to almost any area, no matter how remote. However, they might charge additional travel fees depending on the distance.
2: Convenience Without Leaving Your Home
- UPS Notary: If you live near a UPS Store, it’s convenient to visit, but you’ll need to travel there, find parking, and fit the visit into their working hours. If you’re in a hurry or have a busy schedule, this might not be the most convenient option.
- Mobile Notary: The convenience of a mobile notary is unbeatable. They come directly to you, saving time and effort. Whether you’re at home, in the office, or any other location, a mobile notary will meet you at your convenience.
3: Flexibility to Work Around Your Schedule
- UPS Notary: UPS Store notaries have set business hours, which may not always align with your schedule. If you need to get documents notarized outside of those hours, you may have to wait until the store is open again.
- Mobile Notary: Mobile notaries tend to offer more flexible hours. Many will work evenings, weekends, or even holidays, providing you with the ability to get documents notarized at times that suit your schedule.
4: Fewer Associated Costs
- UPS Notary: The cost of notarization at a UPS Store typically starts at $5 to $15 per document, depending on the location. Additional fees may apply for extra services such as printing or scanning.
- Mobile Notary: Mobile notaries usually charge higher fees than UPS Stores due to the convenience of coming to you. The base fee can range from $25 to $50 or more, depending on the complexity of the service and the notary’s location. Additionally, you may incur travel fees if the notary has to travel a long distance.
5: Available for Any Need
- UPS Notary: UPS notaries are suitable for general notarization of common documents like affidavits, powers of attorney, and contracts. However, if you have specific or more complex needs, they may not be equipped to handle all types of documents.
- Mobile Notary: Mobile notaries are often more flexible and can handle a wider range of documents, including complex legal papers, loan documents, and more. They can also offer services for special cases such as elderly clients or those with mobility issues.
6: Quick & Easy Access to Your Documents
- UPS Notary: If you are already a UPS customer, you can quickly combine notarization with other services like shipping, making the process streamlined and simple.
- Mobile Notary: With a mobile notary, access to your documents is just as quick since they’ll come to you. However, depending on the notary’s schedule and availability, it might take a bit longer to arrange a visit.
7: A $1,000,000 Insurance Policy for Documents Notarized
- Mobile Notary: Many mobile notaries offer a $1,000,000 insurance policy for notarized documents, which can offer peace of mind if anything goes wrong. While not every mobile notary offers this, it’s common among reputable professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions About UPS Notary Cost and Services
Let’s address some common questions regarding UPS notary services and mobile notaries:
Why Should You Notarize Documents?
Notarizing documents adds an extra layer of authenticity and security to legal papers. It ensures that the person signing a document is doing so willingly and with full understanding. Notarization can also prevent fraud and protect against disputes in the future.
What Types of Documents Need to Be Notarized?
Common documents that require notarization include:
- Wills and trusts
- Powers of attorney
- Contracts and agreements
- Affidavits
- Property deeds
- Loan documents
However, not all documents need notarization, so it’s always best to verify with the party requiring the document if notarization is necessary.
How Much Does It Cost for a UPS Store Notary?
The cost of notarizing a document at a UPS Store generally ranges from $5 to $15, though it can vary based on location. Some stores may also charge additional fees for printing, faxing, or scanning services.
Which Service is Better: UPS or Mobile Notary Services?
The choice between UPS Notary and Mobile Notary services depends on your needs. If you prefer convenience and flexibility, a mobile notary is likely the best option. However, if you are looking for a more affordable solution and don’t mind visiting a physical location, UPS may be the way to go.
Conclusion
Choosing between a UPS notary and a mobile notary comes down to your specific needs, preferences, and budget. While UPS offers a more affordable, in-person solution, mobile notaries provide greater convenience, flexibility, and the ability to handle more complex notarization needs. Assess your situation to determine the best option for notarizing your documents.
