Most banks do offer notary services, but availability and cost vary widely by branch and institution
Many banks provide notary services to their customers at no charge, but the service is not universal across all branches or all banks. Some large national banks like Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Chase offer notarization at many locations, though you may need to be a customer and call ahead to confirm your specific branch has a notary on staff. Smaller regional banks and credit unions vary — some have notaries available during business hours, others do not offer the service at all.
The catch is that most banks limit notary services to their own customers, and even then, availability depends on whether a notary happens to be working that day. A notary is typically a bank employee with other duties, so they may not always be available when you walk in. Calling ahead is essential — a five-minute phone call to your branch can save you a wasted trip.
If your bank does not offer notary services or you are not a customer, you have other options: UPS stores, FedEx Office locations, and independent notary services in your area. Some charge between $5 and $15 per signature, while others charge by the document. Public libraries sometimes offer the service for free or at a low cost, though availability is limited and hours are often restricted.
Key Takeaways
- Large national banks often provide notary services to customers at no charge, but you must call your specific branch to confirm a notary is available that day.
- Most banks limit notary services to account holders and may require you to bring your account information or ID.
- Availability varies by branch and by day — a notary may be busy with other work or absent, so calling ahead prevents wasted trips.
- If your bank does not offer notary services, UPS stores, FedEx Office, and independent notaries are common alternatives, usually charging $5 to $15 per signature.
- Some public libraries offer free or low-cost notary services, though hours and availability are often limited.
How to learn about your bank offers notary services
The fastest way is to call your branch directly and ask whether a notary is available. Have your account number ready if you are a customer. Ask what documents you need to bring, what hours the notary works, and whether you need an appointment or can walk in. Some branches handle notarizations during lunch hours only, or only on certain days of the week.
If you do not have a bank account or prefer not to call, visit the bank's website and search for "notary services" or look in the FAQ section. Many banks list which branches have notaries and what the process is. If the website does not mention it, the branch likely does not offer the service.
What banks typically charge for notary services
Most major banks charge nothing for notary services if you are a customer. Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Chase, and Citibank generally do not charge account holders. However, some banks charge a small fee — typically $5 to $10 per signature — even for customers, and a few charge more for non-customers.
Credit unions often follow the same pattern: free for members, sometimes a fee for non-members. Always ask about the cost when you call, because policies vary by institution and sometimes by branch. A notary at a bank is not required to notarize every document — they can refuse if the document appears fraudulent or if you cannot provide proper identification.
What you need to bring to get a document notarized at a bank
Bring a government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The notary must verify your identity before notarizing anything. Bring the document itself, unsigned. You will sign it in front of the notary, not before. If the document requires multiple signatures, bring it unsigned and be prepared to sign all pages in the notary's presence.
If you are a bank customer, bring your account information or debit card. Some branches ask for this to confirm you are a customer before providing the free service. If the document is complex or you are unsure whether it needs notarization, bring any instructions that came with it — a mortgage lender, court, or government agency often specifies what notarization is required.
When a bank notary cannot help you
A notary cannot notarize a document you have already signed. If you signed it before meeting the notary, they cannot proceed — you will need a new copy. A notary also cannot notarize a document if you cannot provide a valid photo ID, or if the document appears to be fraudulent or illegal. Some banks refuse to notarize certain documents like powers of attorney or affidavits, depending on their internal policy.
If your bank refuses to notarize your document, ask why. If it is a policy issue, you may be able to use a different bank or an independent notary. If it is a legal concern — for example, the document is missing required language — you may need to consult an attorney or the organization that requested the notarization.
Alternatives if your bank does not offer notary services
UPS stores and FedEx Office locations have notaries on staff at most locations. You can search for the nearest one on their websites and call to confirm a notary is available. Fees are typically $5 to $15 per signature. Hours are often longer than bank hours, including evenings and weekends at some locations.
Independent notary services operate in most cities and towns. Search online for "notary public near me" to find local options. Some notaries work from home or a small office and may charge $10 to $25 per signature, but they often offer same-day service and flexible hours. Public libraries sometimes offer notary services for free or at a low cost, though availability is limited — call ahead to confirm your library has a notary and what their hours are.
How to prepare before you go to get a document notarized
Read the document carefully and make sure you understand what you are signing. A notary does not explain the document or its legal meaning — they only verify your identity and witness your signature. If you have questions about what the document means or whether you should sign it, ask the organization that sent it to you or consult an attorney before you go to the notary.
Bring the document unsigned and in its final form. Do not make changes or corrections after the notary has notarized it — the notary's seal and signature explore only to the version they witnessed. If you need to change something, you will need a new copy notarized. Bring all required identification and any supporting documents the notary may need, such as a birth certificate or marriage license if the document requires proof of a name change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a document notarized if I am not a bank customer?
Some banks will notarize documents for non-customers, but most charge a fee and some refuse entirely. Call your nearest bank branch and ask. If they decline, UPS stores, FedEx Office, and independent notaries will notarize for anyone, usually for $5 to $15 per signature.
How long does it take to get a document notarized at a bank?
The notarization itself takes five to ten minutes if the notary is available. The wait time depends on how busy the branch is and whether the notary is handling other tasks. Calling ahead and asking when the notary is least busy can reduce your wait.
What if I need a document notarized outside of bank hours?
UPS stores and FedEx Office locations often have extended hours, including evenings and weekends. Independent notaries may also offer flexible scheduling. Search online for "notary public near me" and call to confirm hours and availability.
Can a notary refuse to notarize my document?
Yes. A notary can refuse if you cannot provide valid photo identification, if the document appears fraudulent or illegal, or if you have already signed it. Some banks also refuse certain document types based on internal policy. Ask the notary why they are refusing — they should explain the reason.
Do I need an appointment to get a document notarized at a bank?
Most banks do not require appointments for notary services, but calling ahead is wise because the notary may be unavailable. Some branches may ask you to schedule an appointment if you need multiple documents notarized or if the notarization is complex.