Can notaries charge fees for their services in Ohio?

In Ohio, notaries are permitted to charge fees for their services, and this practice is governed by state statute. The law outlines specific fees that notaries can charge, ensuring that both the notary and the public have a clear understanding of the costs associated with notarization. This allows for consistent practices across the state and helps maintain transparency in the notarization process.

The specific amounts that can be charged for various notarial acts are established by the Ohio Revised Code, providing guidelines meant to protect consumers while also allowing notaries to be compensated for their time and expertise. This statutory allowance is essential, as it supports the professional role of notaries while ensuring that any fees charged are reasonable and regulated.

The other options indicate incorrect understandings of notary practices in Ohio. Notaries are not required to provide their services for free, they charge for a broad range of documents rather than being limited only to certain ones, and the fees are not contingent solely on authorization by the signer. Therefore, recognizing the specified fees in the state statute is crucial for understanding the operation of notaries in Ohio.