Most banks notarize for free if you have an account with them

Many banks offer notary services at no charge to their customers. The service is typically available during regular business hours at any branch, and you do not need an appointment in most cases. The notary is usually a bank employee or someone on staff who holds a notary commission.

The catch is that this free service almost always requires you to be a customer of that bank. If you do not have an account there, you will likely be turned away or charged a fee. Some banks charge non-customers $10 to $15 per notarization, though this varies by location and institution.

A few banks have stopped offering notary services altogether, so calling ahead is worth your time. Ask specifically whether the service is free for account holders and what the fee is for non-customers.

Key Takeaways

  • Account holders at most banks can get documents notarized for free during business hours.
  • Non-customers typically pay $10 to $15 per notarization, though some banks no longer offer the service.
  • You will need to bring a valid government-issued ID and the document that needs notarizing.
  • Credit unions often charge less than banks or offer free notarization to members.
  • Notaries public at UPS stores, pharmacies, and law offices charge $5 to $20 per signature, regardless of whether you bank there.

Where to find a notary if your bank does not offer it

If your bank charges for notarization or does not offer the service, several other places will notarize documents for a fee. UPS stores, FedEx locations, and Staples have notaries on staff at many locations. Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens also offer notary services in some areas. Fees typically run $5 to $15 per signature.

Law offices and title companies notarize documents as part of their regular work. If you are buying a home or working with an attorney on another matter, ask whether they can notarize for you at no extra cost. Some do this as a courtesy to clients.

You can also search for independent notaries public in your area through your state's notary licensing board or through online directories. These notaries often work from home or small offices and charge $5 to $20 per notarization depending on the document type and your location.

What you need to bring to get a document notarized

Bring a valid government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The notary must verify your identity before notarizing anything. Bring the original document that needs notarizing, not a copy. The notary will examine it, watch you sign it (or sign it in front of them if you have not already), and then add their seal and signature.

Some documents require specific language or wording for the notarization to be valid. If you are unsure whether your document is notarized correctly, ask the notary before you leave. They can tell you if anything is missing.

Credit unions often charge less than banks

Credit unions frequently offer free notarization to members, just like banks do. Some credit unions charge a small fee — $1 to $5 — even for members, but this is less common than free service. Non-members typically pay $5 to $10 at a credit union.

If you belong to a credit union, check with your branch first before going to a bank or paying a notary elsewhere. The service is usually available during the same hours as regular banking.

Notarization fees vary by state and document type

State law sets the maximum fee a notary public can charge per signature. In most states, the cap is between $2 and $15 per signature. Some states allow higher fees for travel or for documents that require multiple signatures. A few states do not set a maximum, leaving it to the notary to decide.

If a notary charges you more than your state's maximum, you can report them to your state's notary licensing board. Keep your receipt as proof of the overcharge.

Some documents require multiple notarized signatures — for example, a power of attorney might need notarization on two pages. You will be charged per signature, not per document, so the total cost can add up.

What happens if you notarize a document at the wrong bank

If you get a document notarized at a bank where you do not have an account, you will pay a fee. That notarization is still valid — the bank's notary is a commissioned notary public just like any other, and their seal carries the same legal weight. The document will be accepted wherever it needs to go.

The only downside is the cost. If you knew you would be charged, you might have chosen a cheaper option like a credit union or an independent notary. Plan ahead by calling banks or credit unions where you have accounts before you need a notarization.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I notarize a document online or by mail?

Some states now allow remote notarization using video conferencing, but this is not yet available everywhere. The notary will watch you sign the document on camera and then send you the notarized copy. Banks and traditional notaries do not yet offer this service widely, but some independent notaries and legal document services do. Check your state's notary board to see if remote notarization is permitted where you live.

Do I have to use the bank where I have my checking account?

No. You can use any bank where you have an account — checking, savings, or money market. If you have accounts at multiple banks, call ahead to find out which one offers free notarization. Some branches of the same bank may charge while others do not, so location matters.

What if the notary refuses to notarize my document?

A notary can refuse if the document is unclear, if you do not have proper ID, or if they suspect fraud. They can also refuse if they have a conflict of interest — for example, if they are a party to the document. If this happens, find another notary. You have the right to seek notarization elsewhere.

How long does notarization take?

Most notarizations take five to ten minutes. The notary will check your ID, watch you sign, and add their seal. If the bank is busy, you may wait longer. Call ahead or go during off-peak hours to avoid a wait.

Is a notarized document the same as a certified copy?

No. A notarized document means a notary watched you sign it and verified your identity. A certified copy is an official copy of a document issued by the government agency that holds the original — like a certified birth certificate from the vital records office. These are different services and cost different amounts.