Most banks offer notary services to customers, but availability and cost vary widely by branch and institution
Many banks do have notary services available, but the specifics depend on which bank you use, which branch you visit, and whether you are a customer. Large national banks like Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Chase, and Citibank typically offer notary services at most locations, often at no charge to account holders. Regional and community banks frequently offer notarization as well, though smaller branches may not have a notary on staff every day.
The catch is that policies differ significantly. Some banks notarize documents only for customers, while others will notarize for anyone who walks in. Some charge a fee per signature (usually $5 to $15), while others do it free. A few banks have cut back on notary services in recent years, so calling ahead is essential before you make a trip.
If your bank does not offer notary services or you do not have a bank account, you have other options: UPS stores, FedEx locations, title companies, and county clerk offices all provide notarization. Some charge less than banks do.
Key Takeaways
- Most large national banks offer notary services to customers at no charge, but you should call your specific branch to confirm they have a notary available.
- Some banks notarize documents only for account holders, while others will notarize for anyone, so ask about their customer requirement when you call.
- If your bank does not offer notary services or charges a fee you want to avoid, UPS stores and county clerk offices are common alternatives.
- Notary availability varies by branch and day, so calling ahead prevents a wasted trip.
- You will need to bring a government-issued photo ID and the document that needs to be notarized.
How to learn about your bank has a notary
The fastest way is to call your branch directly and ask whether they have notary services available. Ask three things: whether they notarize for non-customers, whether there is a fee, and what hours the notary is available. Many banks have a notary only during certain hours or on certain days, so knowing the schedule matters.
If you do not know your branch phone number, search the bank's website for a branch locator tool. Most large banks have one. You can also search "[bank name] notary services" online to find general policy information, though individual branches may differ from what the website says.
If your bank has closed its notary service or you do not have a bank account, do not assume you have to pay. County clerk offices and some public libraries offer notarization for free or at a very low cost. UPS stores and FedEx locations charge around $10 to $25 per signature, depending on location.
What to bring when you go to get a document notarized
Bring a government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The notary will check your identity before notarizing anything. Bring the original document that needs to be notarized, not a copy. Some documents require multiple signatures or notarizations, so ask the notary whether your document needs more than one.
Do not sign the document before you arrive. The notary must watch you sign it. If you have already signed it, the notary cannot notarize it and you will need a new copy.
If you are unsure whether your document needs to be notarized or what type of notarization it requires, bring any instructions that came with it. Some documents need a standard notarization, while others require an acknowledgment or a jurat, which are slightly different processes. The notary can tell you which one applies.
Banks that commonly offer notary services
| Bank | Typical availability | Cost for customers | Cost for non-customers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bank of America | Most branches | Free | Varies by branch |
| Wells Fargo | Most branches | Free | Varies by branch |
| Chase | Most branches | Free | Varies by branch |
| Citibank | Most branches | Free | Varies by branch |
| Local/regional banks | Varies | Free to $10 | Free to $15 |
This table shows general patterns, but your specific branch may differ. Always call ahead to confirm. Some branches have reduced their notary hours or stopped offering the service altogether, so the information above is a starting point, not a may provide.
Alternatives if your bank does not have a notary
UPS stores (The UPS Store locations) offer notary services at most locations. Costs typically run $10 to $25 per signature. FedEx Office also provides notarization at many locations, with similar pricing. Both are open on weekends and evenings at many locations, which can be more convenient than bank hours.
County clerk offices notarize documents for free or at a very low cost (usually under $5). Hours are typically Monday through Friday during business hours. Some county courthouses also have notary services available. Search "[your county] clerk notary" to find the office nearest you and confirm their hours.
Title companies, which handle real estate transactions, often notarize documents for free if you are a customer. If you are buying or selling property, ask your title company whether they can notarize other documents as well. Some public libraries also offer notary services, though availability varies by location.
What to expect during the notarization process
The notary will ask to see your photo ID and will verify that it is current and matches your name. They will ask you to confirm that you are signing the document of your own free will and that you understand what you are signing. This is a standard part of the process and takes only a few minutes.
The notary will then watch you sign the document and will add their own signature, seal, and notary stamp. Some notaries use an embosser (a tool that creates a raised impression), while others use an ink stamp. Both are valid. The notary will record the transaction in their journal, which is a legal requirement.
The entire process usually takes 5 to 10 minutes per document. If you have multiple documents or multiple signatures needed, it may take longer. Once the notary has finished, your document is notarized and ready to use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a document notarized if I am not a customer of the bank?
Many banks will notarize for non-customers, but policies vary. Some charge a fee for non-customers while offering free notarization to account holders. Call your branch to ask. If they decline, UPS stores and county clerk offices are reliable alternatives.
What if I have already signed the document?
The notary cannot notarize a document you have already signed. You will need an unsigned copy. The notary must watch you sign it in their presence for the notarization to be valid.
How much does bank notarization cost?
Most banks notarize documents for free if you are a customer. Non-customers may be charged $5 to $15 per signature, or the bank may decline to notarize for them. UPS stores and FedEx typically charge $10 to $25 per signature.
Do I need an appointment to get a document notarized at a bank?
Most banks do not require an appointment for notarization, but calling ahead to confirm a notary is available is a good idea. Some branches have limited notary hours or only one notary on staff, so you may have to wait or return at a different time.
What if my bank no longer offers notary services?
Call your county clerk office or search for UPS stores and FedEx locations near you. County clerks usually charge little or nothing and are open during business hours. UPS and FedEx are often open evenings and weekends, which may be more convenient.