How much does it cost notarize? Understand the cost of the entire process!

If you've ever had to sign a contract, transfer a vehicle, or any other important document, you've probably heard about notarization. And then the question arises: how much does it cost to have your signature notarizedThis is a common question for those who are encountering this procedure for the first time or even for those who need to better understand the costs involved before going to a notary's office.

In this article, we'll help you understand not only the cost of notarization, but also what this procedure entails, when it's necessary, and how the process works. This way, you'll know exactly what to expect when notarizing and avoid surprises at the notary's office.

How much does it cost to notarize a signature?

The cost to notarize a signature can vary depending on the state and the type of notarization required. In general, the average cost is between R$10 and R$10.25 per signature. At notary offices, you'll find two main types of notarization:

1. Recognition of Signature by Similarity: This type is the most common and occurs when the notary compares the signature on the document with the signature registered at the notary's office. The cost is usually more affordable, ranging from R$10 to R$15, depending on the region.
2. Recognition of Signature for Authenticity: In this case, the holder must sign the document in the presence of a notary, who verifies the identity immediately. Because this procedure requires physical presence and more rigorous verification, the fee is usually higher, between R$15 and R$25.

It's worth noting that these amounts may vary depending on the price list for each state and notary office. Furthermore, in some specific cases, such as vehicle transfers, the cost may vary. To avoid surprises, it's best to check with your nearest notary office and confirm the cost before proceeding.

Tips for Saving Money on Notarization

Notarization is a procedure that can be relatively inexpensive, but depending on the number of documents involved, it can be quite expensive. Here are some tips to save money:

• Verify the Real Need for Recognition: Before going to the notary's office, ask the person or institution requesting the document whether notarization is actually required and, if so, what type (similarity or authenticity). Often, notarization by similarity, which is cheaper, is sufficient.
• Search Prices in Different Notary Offices: Although prices are set by state, some notary offices may charge slightly different fees within the permitted range. It's worth calling two or three nearby notary offices to confirm the fee.
• Take the opportunity to recognize multiple signatures at once: If you need to notarize more than one document, do them all at once. This can save time, and in some cases, some notary offices offer discounts for multiple notarizations.
• Keep Your Firm Open at the Notary's Office: If you frequently notarize your signature, having your signature registered with a notary public makes the process easier and avoids the additional costs of registering each time.

What is notarization?

Notarization is the procedure performed at a notary's office to confirm that a signature on a document is genuine and belongs to the person who signed it. This process serves to guarantee the authenticity of the signature, providing greater security for the parties involved and legal validity to the document.

In practice, notarization functions as an official verification: the notary compares the signature on the document with the signature registered at the notary's office. Depending on the type of notarization, the holder may be required to sign the document in front of the notary, ensuring even greater security.

In What Situations Is Notarization Necessary?

Notarization is required in situations involving important documents, where it's necessary to prove that the signature actually belongs to the holder. Some common practical examples include:

• Contracts: In rental, real estate purchase and sale or service provision contracts, notarization is required to guarantee the validity of the agreement and prevent fraud.
• Powers of Attorney: When someone authorizes another person to act on their behalf, such as in banking transactions or legal representations, notarizing the power of attorney ensures that the signature is legitimate.
• Vehicle Transfer: In the process of selling or transferring a vehicle, notarization of the Vehicle Registration Certificate (CRV) is mandatory to prove that the seller actually signed the document.
• Declarations and Certificates: For documents such as residence certificates, medical or school certificates, some institutions may require notarization to avoid doubts about the authenticity of the signatures.

These are just some of the most common situations, but notarization can be requested whenever there is a need to guarantee the authenticity of the signature on an official document.

Types of Signature Recognition: Similarity and Authenticity

There are two main types of notarization: by similarity and for authenticity. Both guarantee the veracity of the signature, but differ in the way the verification is done.

• Recognition of Signature by Similarity: In this type, the notary compares the document's signature with the signature already registered with the notary's office. It's the quickest and simplest, as it doesn't require the owner's presence at the time of verification. This method is widely used for common documents, such as contracts and declarations, as long as the notary's office already has a signature on file.
• Recognition of Signature for Authenticity: In this case, the process is more rigorous. The holder must appear in person at the notary's office and sign the document in the presence of the notary. Furthermore, the notary verifies the person's identity at the time. This type of authentication is recommended for documents that require a higher level of security, such as powers of attorney and vehicle transfers, reducing the risk of fraud.

How to notarize a signature? See the step-by-step guide

If you need to notarize your signature, follow these simple steps to avoid problems and complete the process correctly:

1. Check if the Notary Public Has Your Signature Registered: The first step is to determine if you already have an open signature (registered signature) at the notary's office. If not, you'll need to open a new signature before the notarization process.
2. Bring your ID and ID: To notarize a signature, you must bring the document to be signed and an official ID (RG, driver's license, passport). It is important that the document is complete and filled out, but without a signature.
3. Choose the Recognition Type: Inform the attendant whether you wish to have your signature recognized by similarity (signature compared with the one registered at the notary's office) or by authenticity (signature made in the presence of the notary).
4. Sign the Document (if for Authenticity): If you opt for notarization by authenticity, you'll need to sign the document in front of the notary. For notarization by similarity, your presence is not required, as long as the signature is already registered with the notary.
5. Pay the Recognition Fee: The cost of notarization varies depending on the state and the type of certification (similarity or authenticity). The attendant will inform you of the cost at the time.
6. Withdraw the Recognized Document: After payment, the document is verified and stamped by the notary, attesting to the authenticity of the signature. The process is usually quick, and you can leave the notary with the document in hand.

What documents are required to notarize a signature?

To notarize a document, you'll need to present a few basic items to the notary. Here's a list of required documents:

• Official Identification Document: You must present a photo ID to prove your identity, such as a national ID card, driver's license, passport, or work permit. The document must be in good condition and valid.
• CPF (optional in some cases): Some registry offices may request your CPF, especially if it is not on your ID document.
• Document to be Recognized: The document itself where the signature will be verified. It must be filled out correctly, but without a signature, if you choose authentication by authenticity (which requires a signature at the time).
• Proof of Address (to open a company): If this is your first time at a notary's office, you will need to register your signature. In this case, you may be asked for a current proof of address.