Many banks do notarize documents, but not all branches offer it, and the rules vary by location and bank
If your bank has a notary on staff, you can often get a document notarized there for free or a small fee — sometimes as low as $5 per signature. But "your bank" might not mean the branch near your home. Some banks offer notary services at every location; others only at larger branches or downtown offices. A few banks do not offer notary services at all, even if they are national chains. The only way to know is to call ahead or check your bank's website.
A notary public is a person authorized by the state to witness signatures and verify that the person signing is who they say they are. Banks employ notaries because many financial transactions — refinancing a mortgage, opening a trust account, or signing loan documents — require a notarized signature. If your bank has a notary, using them is usually faster and cheaper than finding a standalone notary office.
Key Takeaways
- Not every bank branch has a notary on staff, so call your branch directly before going in rather than assuming they offer the service.
- Banks that do notarize often do it free for customers or charge $5 to $15 per signature, while standalone notaries typically charge $10 to $25.
- You will need to bring a government-issued photo ID and the document you want notarized; the notary will watch you sign it in front of them.
- If your bank does not have a notary, you can find one through your state's notary directory, a UPS Store, or a local title company.
How to learn about your bank notarizes
Start by calling the branch where you have your account. Ask specifically whether they have a notary on staff and whether that notary is available without an appointment. Some branches keep a notary in the back office who can see you the same day; others require you to book a time slot a few days ahead.
If your branch does not have a notary, ask whether another branch nearby does. Many banks pool notary services across a region, so a branch ten minutes away might have one available. You can also check your bank's website — most large banks list which branches offer notary services under their "services" or "locations" page.
What to bring and what the notary will do
Bring your government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The notary will not notarize a document if you cannot prove who you are. Bring the unsigned document itself, not a copy. The notary must watch you sign it in front of them; they cannot notarize a signature that is already on the page.
The notary will ask you to state your name and confirm that you are signing the document of your own free will, not under pressure. They will then watch you sign, sign and stamp the document themselves, and record the transaction in a notary log (required by state law). The whole process usually takes five to ten minutes. Some notaries will notarize multiple pages or multiple documents in one visit.
Cost and whether banks charge customers
Many banks notarize for free if you are a customer with an account there. Others charge a flat fee of $5 to $15 per signature. A few banks charge more, or charge non-customers a higher rate than customers. Call ahead to ask what your bank charges — the fee varies even between branches of the same bank.
If you do not have a bank account or your bank does not notarize, a standalone notary office typically charges $10 to $25 per signature. UPS Stores and some FedEx locations also offer notary services, usually for $10 to $15. Title companies and law offices sometimes notarize for free if you are a client, or for a small fee if you are not.
When banks cannot notarize your document
A notary cannot notarize a document if they have a financial interest in it. For example, a bank notary cannot notarize a will that names the bank as executor, or a power of attorney that gives the bank control over your accounts. They also cannot notarize a document they drafted or helped you prepare — the notary must be a neutral third party.
Some documents require a certified copy rather than a notarized signature. A certified copy is a photocopy of an original document that a notary or government office has verified is a true copy. Banks do not usually provide certified copies; you will need to go to the government office that issued the original (the vital records office for a birth certificate, the court for a judgment, and so on).
Alternatives if your bank does not notarize
Your state's Secretary of State office maintains a directory of notaries public. You can search by county or zip code to find notaries near you. Many are independent contractors who work from home or a small office and charge $10 to $25 per signature.
UPS Stores, FedEx Office locations, and LandAmerica title companies often have notaries on staff. Call ahead to confirm they are available and to ask about fees. Some pharmacies and credit unions also offer notary services. If you need a notary for a real estate transaction, the title company handling the closing will have a notary and may notarize documents for free as part of the closing process.
What notarization does and does not do
Notarization proves that you signed the document in front of a notary and that you showed a photo ID. It does not mean the notary checked whether the document is legal, whether you understand what you are signing, or whether the other party will honor it. A notarized signature is not a may provide of anything — it is straightforward proof that the signature is yours and that you signed it willingly.
If you are signing something important — a power of attorney, a deed, a loan agreement — consider having a lawyer review it before you sign, whether or not it needs to be notarized. A notary's job is to verify your identity and witness your signature, not to protect you from a bad deal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a notary notarize a blank document or a document I fill in later?
No. The notary must see the completed document and watch you sign it. If you leave blanks or plan to add information after notarization, the notary cannot proceed. Fill in all required information before you go in.
Do I need an appointment to get something notarized at a bank?
It depends on the branch. Some notaries see walk-ins during business hours; others require an appointment. Call your branch first to ask. If you need it done quickly, ask whether they can fit you in the same day or if you should come back another time.
What if I do not have a photo ID?
A notary will not notarize without a government-issued photo ID. If you do not have a driver's license or passport, you can get a state ID card from your local DMV. Bring documents that prove your identity and address, such as a utility bill or lease.
Can I notarize a document for a family member or someone I know?
If you are a notary, no — you cannot notarize for someone you have a personal or financial relationship with. If you are not a notary, you can ask a notary to notarize a document for anyone, as long as that person brings a photo ID and signs in front of the notary.
How long does a notarized document stay valid?
A notarized signature does not expire. However, the document itself may have a important date — for example, a power of attorney might be valid only for a certain number of years, or a loan process might need to be submitted within 30 days. Check the document's terms to see if there is a time limit.