When should you inform your customers of the fee for performing any notarial act?

Informing customers of the fee for performing any notarial act before carrying out the service is important for maintaining transparency and trust in the notarial process. This practice helps ensure that clients understand the costs associated with the services they are receiving, allowing them to make informed decisions. By discussing fees upfront, notaries can avoid any potential disputes or misunderstandings regarding payment after the act has been performed. This upfront communication also aligns with ethical practices in many states, which emphasize the importance of clear and honest interactions between notaries and their clients.

When a notary notifies clients about the fees prior to performing the notarization, it establishes a professional standard and supports an efficient transaction. The other options would not support such transparency, as mentioning fees after the act, during the process, or at the time of payment could create confusion or dissatisfaction for the customer.