Most banks will notarize for free if you have an account with them, but the rules vary by bank and by branch

Whether a bank notarizes for free depends on three things: whether you're a customer, which bank you use, and sometimes which branch you walk into. Large national banks like Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Chase typically notarize for free for account holders. Credit unions often do the same. But some banks charge $5 to $15 per signature, some only notarize for customers, and a few don't notarize at all. The fastest way to know is to call the branch where you bank and ask directly—policies can differ even between branches of the same bank.

If your bank charges or doesn't notarize, you have other free or low-cost options: some employers offer notary services to employees, some libraries and courthouses notarize for free or a small fee, and some title companies will notarize if you're a customer. A notary public working independently usually charges $5 to $25 per signature, depending on where you live.

Key Takeaways

  • Most major banks notarize for free if you hold an account with them, but you should call your specific branch to confirm their policy.
  • Some banks charge per signature even for account holders, and policies can vary between branches of the same bank.
  • If your bank doesn't notarize or charges a fee, libraries, courthouses, title companies, and independent notaries are alternatives.
  • You will need to bring a valid government-issued ID and the document that needs notarizing; the notary will not notarize blank documents or documents you've already signed.

What banks typically notarize for free

Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Chase, and Citibank all notarize for free for account holders at most branches. Credit unions, including Navy Federal and most state-based credit unions, also offer free notarization to members. However, "most branches" is not the same as "all branches"—some locations may have staffing limits or may have stopped the service. The only way to be certain is to call ahead.

When you call, ask whether the service is free for account holders, whether you need an appointment, and what documents you need to bring. Some branches will notarize the same day; others may ask you to come back when a notary is on duty. If you don't have an account at the bank, ask whether they notarize for non-customers and what the fee is.

Banks that charge for notarization

Some regional and smaller banks charge $5 to $15 per signature even for account holders. USAA, for example, charges a fee. Some branches of larger banks may also charge if they've outsourced notary services or have limited staff. The fee is usually per signature, not per document, so if a document needs two notarized signatures, you may pay twice.

Before you assume your bank is free, call and ask. The cost is low enough that it's worth confirming rather than showing up and being surprised at the counter.

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 will check your identity before notarizing anything. Bring the original document that needs notarizing; notaries will not notarize photocopies or documents you've already signed elsewhere. If the document is blank or incomplete, the notary will refuse to notarize it.

You must be present when the notary signs. The notary is witnessing your signature and confirming your identity in person. They cannot notarize a document you've already signed, and they cannot notarize something you mail in or leave with them to sign later.

Free notarization at libraries and courthouses

Many public libraries offer free notarization to patrons, though availability varies by library system. Some courthouses also notarize for free or for a small fee (usually $1 to $5). Call your local library or courthouse clerk's office to ask whether they offer the service and what hours they're available. Some require an appointment; others work on a walk-in basis.

This is often the cheapest option if your bank charges or doesn't notarize. The downside is that hours may be limited, and you may have to travel to a specific location. But if you're not in a rush, it's worth the call.

Independent notaries and other options

Independent notary publics charge $5 to $25 per signature depending on your state and location. You can find them through an online notary directory, through your state's notary board website, or by searching "notary public near me." Some will come to your home or office for an additional travel fee.

Title companies sometimes notarize for free if you're a customer or if the notarization is related to a real estate transaction they're handling. Some employers offer notary services to employees at no cost. If you need notarization regularly, ask your employer or your bank whether they have a notary on staff.

What notarization actually does

A notary public is a witness who confirms that you signed a document in front of them and that you are who you say you are. They do not verify that the document is legal, that you understand what you're signing, or that the information in it is true. They straightforward confirm the signature and identity. The notary then stamps and signs the document, and that stamp is proof that the notarization happened.

Some documents require notarization by law—power of attorney forms, certain real estate documents, and some affidavits. Others don't require it but may be stronger if notarized. If you're not sure whether your document needs notarization, ask the person or organization requesting it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a notary notarize a document I've already signed?

No. The notary must witness your signature. If you've already signed the document, the notary cannot notarize it. You'll need to get a blank copy and sign it in front of the notary.

Do I need an appointment to get something notarized at my bank?

It depends on the branch. Some notarize walk-ins; others require an appointment. Call your branch ahead of time to ask. If you need it done quickly, ask whether they have a notary available that day.

What if my bank doesn't notarize or charges a fee I don't want to pay?

Call your local library or courthouse—many notarize for free or a small fee. You can also search for an independent notary public online; most charge $5 to $25 per signature depending on your location.

Can a notary notarize a blank document?

No. The document must be complete and ready to sign. The notary will not notarize a blank form or a document with blank spaces you plan to fill in later.

Do I need to bring anything besides my ID and the document?

Usually just your ID and the document. Some notaries may ask for additional information depending on the type of document, but a valid government-issued photo ID is the standard requirement.