Not all banks have a notary on staff, and availability varies widely by location and bank size

Large national banks like Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Chase often have notaries at their main branches, but not at every location. Regional banks and credit unions are less likely to have one. Even when a bank does employ a notary, they may only be available during specific hours, may notarize only for account holders, or may charge a fee. The only way to know what your bank offers is to call the branch directly and ask—don't assume based on the bank's name or size.

Notary availability has become less predictable since the pandemic. Some banks reduced their notary services or eliminated them entirely at smaller branches. A few large banks have moved notary work to a single location per region, meaning you might need to travel or use a different service altogether. If you bank online only, your bank almost certainly does not have a notary available.

Key Takeaways

  • Call your bank's branch directly to ask whether they have a notary and whether that notary is available to non-account holders.
  • Large national banks are more likely to have notaries than credit unions or regional banks, but availability varies by branch location.
  • Even if your bank has a notary, they may only work certain hours, charge a fee, or require you to be an account holder.
  • Online-only banks do not have notaries on staff, so you will need to use a separate notary service.

How to learn about your specific bank has a notary

Start by calling the branch where you bank or the branch closest to you. Ask to speak with someone at the customer service desk or a branch manager. Tell them you need to know whether a notary is available, what the hours are, and whether they notarize for non-customers. Write down the name of the person who answers and the date you called—this matters if you show up and find different information.

If the person on the phone is unsure, ask them to check with a manager or transfer you to someone who knows. Do not rely on the bank's website or a general customer service number; branch-level staff have the real answer. Some banks list notary availability on their website, but the information is often outdated or incomplete.

What to expect if your bank does have a notary

If your bank has a notary, you will usually need to make an appointment or arrive during their posted hours. Some banks allow walk-ins; others require you to schedule ahead. The notary may charge a fee—typically $5 to $15 per signature, though this varies by bank and location. A few banks notarize for free if you are an account holder.

Bring the document that needs notarizing, a valid photo ID, and any other documents the notary requests. The notary will verify your identity, watch you sign the document, and add their seal and signature. The whole process usually takes 5 to 10 minutes. If the document is complex or the notary has questions about its purpose, it may take longer.

Banks that commonly have notaries at main branches

Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Chase, and Citibank typically have notaries at their main or downtown branches in larger cities. However, "main branch" does not mean every location—a bank might have a notary at the flagship downtown office but not at the suburban branch two miles away. Credit unions like Navy Federal and some state-based credit unions may have notaries, but you usually have to be a member.

Regional banks such as PNC, U.S. Bank, and Truist have notaries at some locations, but availability is inconsistent. The only reliable way to know is to call. Do not assume that because a large bank has notaries somewhere, your nearest branch has one.

When your bank does not have a notary or cannot help you

If your bank has no notary, does not notarize for non-account holders, or their hours do not work for you, you have other options. Many UPS stores, FedEx Office locations, and Staples offer notary services. Some courthouses have notaries available to the public, usually for free or a small fee. You can also hire an independent notary through a local search or through services that send a notary to your home or office.

Prices for independent notaries range from $10 to $50 per signature depending on your location and whether they travel to you. If you need multiple documents notarized or need the notary to come to you, an independent notary may actually be cheaper and more convenient than driving to a bank branch.

Why banks are reducing notary services

Fewer bank branches have notaries now than five years ago. Banks cite staffing costs, lower foot traffic, and the rise of online banking as reasons. Some banks have consolidated notary services to one location per region to save money. Others have decided that notary work does not fit their business model anymore.

This shift means you should not count on your bank as your first choice for notary services. Instead, treat it as one option among several. If your bank does have a notary, great—but have a backup plan in mind before you need one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be a customer of the bank to use their notary?

Not always, but many banks limit notary services to account holders only. Some banks notarize for anyone, but charge a higher fee for non-customers. Call ahead and ask—this is one of the first things to confirm when you contact the branch.

Can a bank notary notarize anything, or are there limits?

Bank notaries can notarize most common documents like powers of attorney, affidavits, and loan documents. They cannot notarize their own signature, and they may refuse documents they believe are fraudulent or unclear. If you have questions about whether a specific document can be notarized, describe it to the notary when you call.

What if I need a notary outside of business hours?

Banks are only open during standard business hours, so you will need an independent notary or a 24-hour service. Some UPS stores and FedEx locations offer evening and weekend notary services, though availability varies by location. Search online for "notary near me" and filter by hours to find options that work for your schedule.

Can I get a document notarized over video or by mail?

Remote notarization is now legal in most states, but not all notaries offer it. Some banks have started offering remote notary services for account holders. You will need to check with your bank or search for "remote notary" services in your state to see what is available where you live.