Chase's Notary Policy: What You Pay and What You Don't
Chase Bank does not offer free notary services to customers or the public. Most Chase branches charge a fee for notarization, typically between $10 and $15 per document, though the exact amount varies by location and the number of signatures required. Some branches may charge per signature rather than per document, so the total cost depends on how many times a document needs to be notarized.
The availability of notary services also varies by branch. Not every Chase location has a notary on staff, and some branches only offer notarization during certain hours. Before visiting a branch, call ahead to confirm whether a notary is available and what the fee will be at that specific location.
Key Takeaways
- Chase charges $10 to $15 per document for notary services, though fees vary by branch location.
- Not all Chase branches have a notary available, so you should call your local branch before visiting.
- Some branches charge by signature rather than by document, which can affect your total cost.
- You may find free or lower-cost notary services through your employer, credit union, or local government office.
How to Find a Notary at Your Chase Branch
To locate notary services at Chase, call your local branch directly and ask whether a notary is on staff and what hours they are available. Chase does not list notary availability online, so a phone call is the fastest way to confirm. Ask for the exact fee structure—whether they charge per document or per signature—so you know the total cost before you arrive.
Bring a valid government-issued photo ID when you visit. The notary will need to see your ID and verify your identity before notarizing any document. Have your document ready and know exactly which pages or signatures need to be notarized.
Where to Find Free or Cheaper Notary Services
Several places offer notary services for free or at a lower cost than Chase. Many employers provide free notary services to employees through their HR or legal departments—check with your workplace first. Credit unions often notarize documents free for members, even if you do not have an account with them; call ahead to confirm.
Public libraries in many cities offer free notary services or can direct you to a notary nearby. County clerk offices and some state government buildings also provide notarization, usually for a small fee of $1 to $5. Real estate agents and title companies notarize documents as part of their business and may do so free if the document is related to a transaction they are handling.
Some shipping stores like UPS and FedEx have notaries on staff, though availability and fees vary widely. Online notary services are also available in most states, allowing you to have a document notarized remotely via video call, usually for $25 to $50.
What Documents Chase Will and Will Not Notarize
Chase notaries can notarize most standard documents: powers of attorney, affidavits, loan documents, real estate papers, and general acknowledgments. However, they cannot notarize documents that are blank or incomplete, documents you did not sign in front of the notary, or documents where the notary has a financial interest.
Some documents require a certified copy rather than a notarization—for example, birth certificates or court orders. Chase cannot provide certified copies; you must request those from the government agency that issued the original document. If you are unsure whether your document needs notarization or a certified copy, ask the notary when you call the branch.
What to Bring When You Visit
Bring your original, unsigned document and a valid government-issued photo ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The notary must see your ID and verify that you are the person signing the document. Do not sign the document before you arrive; the notary must watch you sign it.
If the document requires multiple signatures or notarizations, bring it unsigned and be prepared to sign it in front of the notary. Some documents have specific notarization language or boxes that must be filled in; the notary will handle this, but it may take a few extra minutes. Bring cash or a debit card, as not all branches accept checks for notary fees.
Timing and Wait Times at Chase Branches
Notarization at a Chase branch usually takes 5 to 15 minutes, depending on how many documents you have and how busy the branch is. However, you may wait longer if the notary is helping other customers. Call ahead during slower hours—typically mid-morning on weekdays—to minimize your wait time.
Some branches schedule notary appointments, while others work on a first-come, first-served basis. Ask when you call whether you can book an appointment or whether you should just walk in. If you need notarization urgently, an online notary service may be faster, as you can often complete the process within an hour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a notary at Chase without being a customer?
Yes, Chase notarizes documents for non-customers, though the fee is the same. You still need a valid government-issued photo ID and must sign the document in front of the notary.
Does Chase notarize documents for real estate transactions?
Yes, Chase notaries can notarize real estate documents like deeds, mortgages, and powers of attorney. However, title companies and real estate agents often notarize these documents free as part of the closing process, so check with them first.
What if my Chase branch does not have a notary?
Call another Chase branch nearby to see if they have a notary available. If not, contact your local library, credit union, or county clerk office for free or low-cost notary services in your area.
Can I notarize a document that is already signed?
No, the notary must watch you sign the document. If it is already signed, the notary cannot notarize it. You will need to obtain an unsigned copy and sign it in front of the notary.
How much does Chase charge for notarizing multiple documents?
Chase typically charges per document, so notarizing three documents would cost three times the per-document fee. Some branches charge per signature instead. Call your local branch to confirm their fee structure before you visit.