Notaries looking to maximize their income often wonder whether remote online notarization (RON) or mobile notary services are the better options. Both services offer unique advantages, but profitability depends on factors like startup costs, income potential, and client demand.

This guide breaks down the differences between RON and mobile notarization, helping notaries determine which path (or combination of both) best suits their business goals.

Understanding the Differences Between RON and Mobile Notary Services

RON and mobile notarization are two distinct ways to perform notarizations, each with different processes, legal requirements, and business models.

Feature	Remote Online Notarization (RON)	Mobile Notary Services
Process	Performed via an online platform	Done in person at a physical location
Location	Notary and signer are in different places	Notary travels to the signer
Technology Needed	Computer, webcam, secure RON platform	Notary journal, stamp, travel supplies
Legal Restrictions	Only available in RON-approved states	Available in all states
Client Type	Businesses, real estate professionals, lenders	Individuals, attorneys, real estate transactions

While RON offers digital convenience, mobile notary services provide in-person verification, which some clients still prefer.

Startup Costs: RON vs. Mobile Notary Services

Both RON and mobile notary services require an initial investment, but the costs differ significantly.

Expense	RON Cost Estimate	Mobile Notary Cost Estimate
State application & certification	$50 – $200	$50 – $200
Notary stamp & journal	$50 – $100	$50 – $100
Technology (computer, webcam, internet)	$500 – $1,500	Not required
RON platform subscription	$20 – $100/month	Not required
E&O Insurance	$25 – $100/year	$25 – $100/year
Mobile equipment (printer, scanner, GPS)	Not required	$200 – $1,000
Travel expenses (gas, tolls, maintenance)	Not required	Variable, based on miles driven

Income Potential: How Much Can You Earn?  

Earnings vary depending on location, work volume, and the clients you serve.  

Service Type	Average Fee Per Notarization	Potential Monthly Earnings
RON (per transaction)	$10 – $25	$2,000 – $5,000 (high volume states)
Mobile Notary (per appointment)	$75 – $200	$3,000 – $7,000 (based on 40+ signings/month)
Loan Signing (mobile notary)	$150 – $250	$4,000 – $10,000+ (full-time)

Income Considerations:

• RON is great for volume work but may have lower per-transaction earnings.
• Mobile notaries can charge higher fees, but their income depends on mileage and travel time.
• Loan signings offer the highest income potential, especially for mobile notaries.

Which is more profitable?
For high-volume notarization, RON is ideal, but if you prefer fewer, higher-paying jobs, mobile notarization offers better earnings.

Client Demand: Who Needs RON vs. Mobile Notary Services?

Certain clients prefer RON, while others require in-person notarization. Understanding where demand is highest helps notaries make informed decisions.

Who Uses RON the Most?

• Mortgage lenders & title companies (digital loan closings)
• Real estate professionals (eClosings & remote buyers/sellers)
• Legal & financial firms (estate planning & contracts)
• International clients (documents notarized remotely)

Who Uses Mobile Notaries the Most?

• Real estate transactions (loan signings, deeds, closings)
• Attorneys & law firms (wills, power of attorney, affidavits)
• Hospitals & nursing homes (medical-related documents)
• General public (one-time notarial needs)

Since many legal and financial industries are shifting to digital platforms, RON demand is growing, but mobile notarization still dominates high-value transactions.

Pros and Cons of RON vs. Mobile Notary Services

Both services have advantages and drawbacks, depending on a notary’s business model and personal preferences.

Factor	Remote Online Notarization (RON)	Mobile Notary Services
Convenience	Work from home, no travel	Must drive to appointments
Flexibility	Can notarize anytime, anywhere	Set your schedule, but location-dependent
Earnings	Lower per-signing but high volume	Higher per-signing fees but travel costs
Legal Restrictions	Limited to RON-approved states	Available in all states
Technology Needed	Secure online platforms, webcam, and digital certificates	No technology is required, just basic supplies

Which Is Better?

• Choose RON if you prefer working remotely, handling volume work, and investing in tech-based notarization.
• Choose mobile notary services if you want higher per-signing fees and are comfortable traveling for appointments.

Can You Offer Both RON and Mobile Notary Services?

Yes! Many notaries offer both services to maximize income and adapt to client needs.

Why Combining Both Services Works:

• Diversifies your income (handle online and in-person clients).
• Expands your client base (serve both individuals and businesses).
• Provides flexibility (RON for remote work, mobile for premium fees).

A hybrid approach lets notaries scale their business more effectively.

Final Verdict: Which One Is More Profitable?

The answer depends on your business goals, location, and preferred work style.

Best for High Volume & Remote Work:

• RON is better if you want to scale digitally and handle many transactions per day.

Best for Higher Per-Signing Fees & Local Clients:

• Mobile notary work is better if you want fewer, higher-paying signings and don’t mind travel.

Best Overall Strategy:

• Combining both RON and mobile notarization provides steady income and flexibility.

Choosing the Right Notary Path for Your Business

Both Remote Online Notarization (RON) and Mobile Notary Services offer strong income potential, but each requires different investments and approaches.

Key Takeaways:

• RON requires technology & subscription fees but allows remote work.
• Mobile notary services require travel but offer higher per-signing fees.
• Loan signing work remains the most profitable for mobile notaries.
• Combining both RON & mobile services can maximize income and flexibility.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your preferences, business goals, and state regulations.

For more resources on building a profitable notary business, visit the Notary Public Association.