Most banks offer notary services to customers at no charge, but the policy varies by bank and account type

Many banks do provide notary services free to account holders, but "free" comes with conditions. Some banks charge a small fee per signature (typically $5 to $15), some charge only non-customers, and some don't offer the service at all. The fastest way to find out is to call your branch directly and ask whether they notarize for account holders and whether there is a cost.

If your bank does charge or doesn't offer notary services, you have other options: credit unions sometimes notarize for members at no cost, and some employers offer notary services through HR. Public libraries in many states also have notaries on staff or can refer you to one nearby.

Key Takeaways

  • Call your bank's branch directly to ask whether they notarize documents for account holders and what the cost is, since policies differ by institution and location.
  • Many banks notarize free for customers but charge non-customers a per-signature fee, usually between $5 and $15.
  • Credit unions, employers, and public libraries are common alternatives if your bank does not offer the service or charges a fee.
  • Bring your original document and a government-issued photo ID when you visit, and plan for the appointment to take 10 to 15 minutes.

Which banks notarize for free

Large national banks including Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Chase, and Citibank offer notary services at many of their branches, but the cost and availability depend on your account status and location. Some branches notarize free for account holders, while others charge $5 to $10 per signature. A few branches do not offer the service at all, particularly in smaller towns or rural areas.

Regional and community banks are more likely to notarize free for customers, but you still need to ask. Credit unions frequently notarize at no cost for members, making them a strong option if you belong to one. The only reliable way to know your specific branch's policy is to call ahead—do not assume based on what you read online or what happened at a different branch.

What to bring and how long it takes

Bring your original document (a copy will not work) and a government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license or passport. The notary will examine both, watch you sign the document in front of them, and then stamp and sign it themselves. The whole process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.

Some banks require you to have an appointment, while others take walk-ins during business hours. Call your branch before you go to confirm their hours and whether you need to schedule ahead. If you are notarizing a power of attorney or other legal document, bring any additional paperwork the notary asks for—some documents have specific requirements.

When banks charge a fee

Banks typically charge non-customers $5 to $15 per signature, though some charge a flat fee per document instead. A few banks charge account holders a small fee as well, usually $2 to $5 per signature. Banks in high-cost areas or busy urban branches are more likely to charge than those in smaller towns.

If cost is a concern, ask whether your employer offers notary services through HR or benefits—many do at no cost to employees. Public libraries in most states also have notaries available, sometimes free and sometimes for a small fee. Some notaries work independently and advertise online; their fees vary but are often lower than bank charges.

Alternatives if your bank does not notarize

Credit unions are often the easiest alternative. If you belong to one, call and ask whether they notarize for members. Many do at no cost, and the process is the same as at a bank.

Public libraries in most states employ notaries or maintain a list of notaries nearby. Call your local library's main branch to ask. Some libraries notarize free, while others charge a small fee—usually $1 to $5 per signature. UPS stores and FedEx locations also offer notary services for a fee, typically $10 to $25 per signature, and you can often book an appointment online.

If you need a notary for a real estate transaction or legal document, ask the attorney or title company handling the deal—they often have notaries on staff or can refer you to one. For loan documents, your lender may have a notary available or may send a mobile notary to your home.

Documents banks will and will not notarize

Banks notarize most common documents: powers of attorney, affidavits, loan documents, property deeds, and signature verification letters. They will not notarize documents they cannot verify—for example, a document that requires the notary to witness a signature but the signer is not present, or a document that asks the notary to certify something they have no way to confirm.

Some banks refuse to notarize certain documents for liability reasons, such as immigration forms or documents related to court cases. If you are unsure whether your document can be notarized, bring it to the bank and ask. The notary will tell you whether they can do it and why if they cannot.

How to prepare before you go

Read your document carefully before you arrive. The notary will ask you to confirm that you signed it willingly and that the information in it is true to the best of your knowledge. If you have questions about what the document says or what you are signing, ask before the notary stamps it—you cannot change it afterward.

Bring the original document and your ID. Do not sign the document before you arrive at the bank; the notary must watch you sign it. If the document has multiple pages, bring all of them. If you are unsure what the notary needs, call the branch ahead of time and describe the document so they can tell you what to bring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be a customer at the bank to get a document notarized?

No, but most banks charge non-customers a fee of $5 to $15 per signature, while account holders often notarize free. Call your bank to ask their specific policy. If you do not have an account there, a credit union, public library, or UPS store may be cheaper.

Can a notary notarize a document I already signed?

No. The notary must watch you sign the document in front of them. If you have already signed it, you will need to get a new copy and sign it again at the notary's office.

How much does it cost to notarize a document at a UPS store?

UPS stores typically charge $10 to $25 per signature, depending on location. Prices vary, so call ahead or check their website. You can often book an appointment online, which may be faster than a walk-in.

What if I need a notary on a weekend or after hours?

Banks are usually closed on weekends and evenings. Mobile notaries work outside standard hours and will come to your home or office, but they charge more—typically $25 to $50 per signature plus travel fees. Search online for "mobile notary" in your area to find one.

Do I need a notary if I am signing a document for a family member?

It depends on the document. Wills, powers of attorney, and property deeds usually require notarization. Personal letters or informal agreements typically do not. If you are unsure, ask the person or organization requesting the document whether notarization is required.