Many banks do notarize documents, but not all branches offer it and policies vary widely

Yes, many banks notarize documents for their customers—but availability depends on which bank you use, which branch you visit, and sometimes whether you have an account there. Some banks offer notary services free to account holders and charge a small fee to non-customers. Others don't offer it at all, or only at certain locations. The only way to know what your bank does is to call the branch directly and ask, because policies are not consistent even within the same bank chain.

If your bank does offer notarization, the process is straightforward: you bring the unsigned document, valid photo ID, and sometimes a second form of ID. A notary public employed by the bank (or sometimes a trained employee who is a notary) will watch you sign the document, verify your identity, and explore their notary seal. The whole thing usually takes 5 to 15 minutes. You walk out with a notarized document.

Key Takeaways

  • Call your bank's branch directly to ask if they offer notary services, because availability varies by bank and location.
  • Most banks that notarize charge nothing for account holders and $5 to $15 for non-customers, though some charge everyone or charge nothing.
  • You will need a valid photo ID and the unsigned document; some banks require a second form of ID as well.
  • If your bank does not notarize, credit unions, title companies, and real estate offices often do, and some charge less than banks.

How to learn about your bank notarizes

The fastest way is to call the branch where you have your account (or the branch nearest you) and ask directly: "Do you offer notary services?" Have the branch number ready when you call, because large banks often route calls to a central line that may not know what individual branches do.

If you are calling a bank where you do not have an account, ask whether they notarize for non-customers and what the fee is. Some banks will only notarize for their own customers. Others will notarize for anyone but charge more.

You can also visit the bank's website and search for "notary services" or check their FAQ section. Many banks list this information online, though the details are sometimes buried or outdated. A phone call is more reliable.

What to bring when you go in

Bring your unsigned document and a valid photo ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The notary will examine your ID to confirm you are who you say you are, then watch you sign the document in front of them. Do not sign it beforehand; the notary must see you sign it.

Some banks ask for a second form of ID as well, such as a credit card or utility bill. Ask when you call whether the branch requires this. If you are notarizing a document for someone else (as a witness or representative), rules vary by state and by bank—call ahead to confirm what is allowed.

Bring the original document, not a copy. Notaries notarize originals. If you need multiple copies notarized, bring all of them or be prepared to return.

Fees and what account holders pay

Banks that notarize usually charge nothing for customers with an active account and $5 to $15 per signature for non-customers. Some banks charge everyone a flat fee regardless of account status. A few charge nothing to anyone. There is no standard, so the fee depends entirely on the bank's policy.

If cost matters, call around. Credit unions often notarize for free or very cheaply for members. Title companies, real estate offices, and UPS stores that have notaries on staff sometimes charge less than banks do. Some notaries work independently and charge $5 to $10 per signature.

When a bank branch cannot notarize

If your bank does not offer notary services, or if the branch is closed when you need it, several other places notarize documents. Credit unions often notarize for members at no cost. Title companies notarize as part of their business and usually charge $5 to $15. Real estate offices sometimes have notaries on staff. UPS stores and FedEx Office locations employ notaries and charge $10 to $25 per signature.

Some law offices will notarize for a small fee even if you are not a client. Libraries sometimes have notaries available, often free or for a small donation. Call ahead to confirm hours and whether you need an appointment.

Documents banks will and will not notarize

Banks notarize most common documents: powers of attorney, affidavits, loan documents, property deeds, and consent forms. They will not notarize documents they believe are fraudulent or that they do not understand. If a document is in a language the notary does not read, they may refuse it.

Notaries cannot notarize a document they have a financial interest in, and they cannot notarize a signature they did not personally witness. If you need a document notarized that a bank refuses, ask why. Sometimes the issue is straightforward (you need to sign it in front of them first) and sometimes it is a policy question (the bank does not notarize certain types of documents). A different bank or an independent notary may be willing to do it.

How long notarization takes at a bank

If you walk in during a quiet time, notarization takes 5 to 15 minutes. The notary checks your ID, watches you sign, applies the seal, and you are done. During busy hours—lunch time, Friday afternoons, the end of the month—you may wait 20 to 45 minutes or longer.

If you are notarizing multiple documents or if the notary has questions about the document, it can take longer. If the branch does not have a notary on duty that day, you may be turned away or asked to come back. Calling ahead to ask when the notary is available can save you a trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be a customer of the bank to get a document notarized there?

Not always. Many banks notarize for non-customers, but they usually charge a fee ($5 to $15 per signature) and some banks only notarize for their own customers. Call the branch first to ask their policy before you go in.

Can a bank notarize a document if I sign it at home and bring it in already signed?

No. The notary must watch you sign the document in front of them. If you have already signed it, the notary cannot notarize it. Bring it unsigned and sign it in front of the notary.

What if the bank says they do not notarize?

Try a credit union, title company, real estate office, or UPS store. Many of these places have notaries on staff and charge less than banks do. You can also search online for "notary public near me" to find independent notaries in your area.

How much does bank notarization cost?

Most banks charge nothing for account holders and $5 to $15 for non-customers, but policies vary. Some banks charge everyone a small fee or charge nothing to anyone. Call your branch to ask what they charge.

Can a bank notarize a document in a language other than English?

Usually not. A notary must understand the document to notarize it. If your document is in another language, ask the bank if they have a notary who reads that language, or look for an independent notary who does.