Most banks do offer notary services, but availability depends on your bank, your account status, and whether you visit during business hours
Many banks employ notaries on staff or contract with them, and they typically notarize documents for customers at no charge or for a small fee. However, not every branch has a notary present every day, and some banks limit notarization to account holders only. The fastest way to know whether your bank can help is to call the specific branch where you bank—not the general customer service line—and ask if a notary is available and whether you need an appointment.
Banks that commonly offer notary services include Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and most regional and credit unions, though the policy and availability vary by location. Some banks advertise notary availability on their website or in the branch locator tool; others do not. If your bank does not offer the service or the nearest branch cannot accommodate you, you have other options: UPS stores, FedEx locations, and some public libraries notarize documents, often for a fee of $5 to $15 per signature.
Key Takeaways
- Call your bank branch directly to confirm a notary is available on the day and time you plan to visit, since availability varies by location and staffing.
- Many banks notarize documents free for account holders but may charge non-customers a fee of $5 to $10 per signature.
- Bring a valid government-issued photo ID and the unsigned document; the notary will watch you sign and add their seal and signature.
- If your bank cannot help, UPS stores, FedEx locations, and some public libraries offer notary services for a fee, often without requiring an appointment.
What banks typically charge for notary services
Most banks notarize documents for free if you are an account holder. Some banks charge account holders a small fee—usually $5 to $10 per signature—while others waive the fee entirely as a customer service. Non-customers are more likely to be charged; fees typically range from $5 to $15 per signature, though some banks decline to notarize for non-customers altogether.
A few large banks have begun charging all customers a fee, even account holders, as part of a shift toward treating notary services as a revenue stream rather than a perk. Call ahead to ask about the specific fee structure at your branch. If cost is a concern, public libraries in many areas notarize documents for free or for a donation, though availability is limited and hours are often restricted to weekday afternoons.
How to prepare your documents before visiting the bank
Bring the unsigned document itself—not a copy—along with a valid government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license or passport. The notary must watch you sign the document in their presence; they cannot notarize a document you have already signed. If the document requires multiple signatures or initials, the notary will observe each one.
Some documents specify which notary language or wording must appear on the page. If your document includes a notarial certificate—a printed box or paragraph that says something like "Subscribed and sworn to before me"—the notary will complete that section. If the document does not include one, the notary will attach a separate notarial certificate page. Bring all pages of the document, even blank ones, so the notary can review the full context.
When banks cannot or will not notarize a document
Banks refuse to notarize documents in a few situations. A notary cannot notarize a document they have a financial interest in—for example, a bank notary cannot notarize a deed transferring property to themselves. They also cannot notarize a document if they do not know you or cannot verify your identity through a government-issued photo ID. Some banks will not notarize certain high-risk documents, such as powers of attorney or adoption papers, because of liability concerns.
If a bank declines, ask why. If the reason is that the notary has a conflict of interest or does not know you, another notary at a different branch or an independent notary can help. If the bank refuses because of the document type, you may need a notary public who specializes in that kind of document—some states require additional training or bonding for certain notarizations, and independent notaries are more likely to have those credentials than bank employees.
Finding a notary if your bank cannot help
UPS stores and FedEx locations employ notaries and typically do not require an appointment, though wait times vary. Fees are usually $5 to $15 per signature. Many public libraries offer notary services free or for a small donation, but hours are often limited to weekday afternoons and some libraries have stopped offering the service. Search online for "notary public near me" to see what is available in your area, or call ahead to confirm hours and whether an appointment is needed.
If you need a notarization for a high-stakes document—such as a power of attorney, a will, or a real estate deed—consider hiring an independent notary public rather than relying on a bank or retail location. Independent notaries often have more experience with complex documents and may carry higher bonding and insurance. You can find them through your state's notary public directory or through organizations like the National Notary Association.
What to expect during the notarization process
When you arrive at the bank, tell the teller or receptionist you need notary services. You may be directed to a specific person or asked to wait. The notary will ask to see your photo ID and will verify that the name on the ID matches the name on the document. They will ask you to confirm that you are signing the document of your own free will and that the information in it is true to the best of your knowledge.
You will then sign the document in front of the notary. The notary will add their official seal, signature, and the date. Some notaries will stamp the document; others will emboss it. The entire process usually takes 5 to 10 minutes. You will receive the original notarized document; keep it in a safe place, as you may need it for legal or financial purposes.
Notary services at credit unions versus traditional banks
Credit unions often offer notary services to members at no charge, and many are more flexible about notarizing documents than large banks are. If you are a credit union member, check with your branch first—you may find faster service and lower fees than at a traditional bank. Some credit unions have notaries available during extended hours or on Saturdays, which can be helpful if you work during standard business hours.
The main difference is that credit unions are member-owned and often prioritize member services over revenue. However, not all credit unions employ a notary, and availability still depends on the specific branch. Call ahead to confirm, just as you would with a bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a document notarized if I do not have a bank account?
Yes, but you may be charged a fee and some banks will decline. UPS stores, FedEx locations, and public libraries often notarize for non-customers. Bring a valid government-issued photo ID to any notary.
What if I need a notarization outside of business hours?
Banks are closed evenings and weekends, so you will need to find an independent notary or a retail location like UPS or FedEx that stays open later. Some notaries work by appointment and can meet you outside standard hours for an additional fee.
Can a notary notarize a document I signed before I came in?
No. A notary must watch you sign the document in their presence. If you have already signed it, the notary cannot notarize it and you will need a new copy to sign in front of them.
Do I need to make an appointment for a bank notary?
Most banks do not require an appointment, but calling ahead to confirm a notary is available is wise. Some branches have only one notary and they may be busy or out that day.
What if the bank notary says they cannot notarize my document?
Ask them to explain why. If it is a conflict of interest or liability concern, try another branch or an independent notary. If it is because you lack proper ID, bring a different form of government-issued photo ID and try again.