Notarization plays a crucial role in ensuring the authenticity and voluntariness of a prenup and other important documents. But with the wedding bills piling up, you may be wondering how much this is going to cost you. In this article, we will discuss the significance of notarization for prenups including a cost breakdown and where to get your prenup notarized. Let’s jump in.
What is notarization?
Notarization is a helpful step designed to keep documents, contracts, and other important transactions secure when it comes to signing. It’s all about making sure that the people signing the document are really who they claim to be. The process of notarization is done by a Notary Public, who is a designated public official. Their job is to ensure that the signature on a document is genuine (verifying identification) and that the person signing did so voluntarily (without force).
Why do I need to get my prenup notarized?
Notarizing a prenup is a protective measure that shows a court that your prenup was actually signed by you (and not forged) and you weren’t forced into signing it. Plus, in certain states, it is a formal requirement to be considered legally valid. If you fail to have your prenup notarized in those states, your prenup could be thrown out (and likely will be). At HelloPrenup, we require everyone to get their prenup notarized, even if you are in a state that doesn’t formally require it. This is because it’s an excellent layer of protection for your prenup should it ever be challenged in the future.
Where can I get my prenup notarized, and how much does it cost?
The cost to get your prenup notarized is around $30 to $150, depending on your chosen route. For example, a mobile notary is much more expensive than, say, getting your prenup done in person at a UPS.
HelloPrenup
For just $50, HelloPrenup offers the perk of e-notarizing your prenup (i.e., notarizing your prenup online). The advantages? You can accomplish the entire prenup process from start to finish from the comfort of your home. It guarantees a smooth experience, allowing you to check off your pre-wedding to-do list in one sitting.
Mobile notaries
A mobile notary costs around $100-$150, depending on your area and how far the mobile notary needs to travel to get to you. A mobile notary is where a Notary Public comes to your house to verify your identity, watch you sign off on your documents, and sign/stamp the document themselves (a.k.a., the whole notarization process). A mobile notary may be useful for someone who isn’t able to leave home to get their prenup notarized, but also maybe doesn’t want to online notarize either. This is also the most expensive option on the market.
Shipping/Mailing Businesses
Many private companies, such as UPS, offer notary services. Since this is a private company, they generally charge a bit more than a bank or post office. The typical charge at these types of places is around $30-$50, depending on the location and business pricing models. You will also need to go in person to receive your notarization.
Most banks
Most banks will offer notary services. Some will do this free of charge for their customers, and others may charge a fee (especially if you are not a customer of theirs). The fee can range anywhere from $15-$50, depending on the bank and the service requested.
Some lawyers
Some prenup lawyers may also be Notary Publics or have someone at their firm who is one, which means you can get your prenup notarized in their office. This cost will also vary depending on your geographical location and the lawyers’ pricing model.
The bottom line: Getting a prenup notarized is affordable!
You may be flustered with all of those wedding expenses adding up, and we totally understand! But notarization shouldn’t be an expense you worry about. If you’re using HelloPrenup, notarization costs a flat $50, and you can do it all from your couch. I mean, what is better than that? The most expensive route is calling a mobile notary to show up at your house (this is around $100), but you may also go in person to a shipping service store or bank, where the cost is around $30-$50, and may even be free! So, pop some champagne, greet your Notary Public, sign that document, and cheers to a new chapter with your soulmate!
Nicole Sheehey is the Head of Legal Content at HelloPrenup, and an Illinois licensed attorney. She has a wealth of knowledge and experience when it comes to prenuptial agreements. Nicole has Juris Doctor from John Marshall Law School. She has a deep understanding of the legal and financial implications of prenuptial agreements, and enjoys writing and collaborating with other attorneys on the nuances of the law. Nicole is passionate about helping couples locate the information they need when it comes to prenuptial agreements. You can reach Nicole here: Nicole@Helloprenup.com
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