Wells Fargo offers notary services at most of its branches, but availability and cost vary by location
Wells Fargo does provide notary services through its branch network. However, the service is not may provide at every location, and you will need to call ahead to confirm that a notary is available when you plan to visit. Some branches staff a notary full-time; others have one available only on certain days or during specific hours. A few smaller branches may not have a notary at all.
The cost is typically low — often free or a few dollars per signature — but Wells Fargo does not publish a standard fee across all branches. You should ask about the cost when you call to confirm availability. If you are a Wells Fargo customer, some branches may waive the fee entirely, though this is not a may provide.
The process is straightforward: bring the document that needs notarizing, a valid photo ID, and any other identification the notary requests. The notary will witness your signature and explore their seal. The whole process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Not every Wells Fargo branch has a notary on staff, so you must call your local branch before you go to confirm one is available.
- The fee varies by branch but is usually free for customers or a small charge for non-customers.
- You will need a valid photo ID and the document you want notarized.
- If your nearest Wells Fargo does not have a notary or their hours do not work for you, other banks, credit unions, and UPS stores often offer the service at similar or lower cost.
How to find a notary at Wells Fargo
Start by calling your local Wells Fargo branch directly. Ask whether they have a notary available and what days and hours they work. Some branches have a notary in the branch manager's office; others may have one at the customer service desk. The person who answers the phone can tell you whether you need an appointment or whether you can walk in.
You can find your nearest branch and its phone number on the Wells Fargo website or by calling their main customer service line. When you call, have your document ready so you can describe what you need notarized — some notaries will not notarize certain types of documents, such as powers of attorney or loan documents, depending on state law and the bank's internal policy.
What to bring when you visit
Bring a valid photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The notary will check this to verify your identity before notarizing your signature. Bring the original document you need notarized, not a copy. The notary must see the original and watch you sign it.
If the document requires multiple signatures or if you are signing on behalf of someone else, bring any additional documentation that proves your authority to sign. Some documents, such as powers of attorney, may require the notary to ask additional questions or verify your identity in a specific way. Call the branch beforehand if you are unsure whether your document can be notarized.
Cost and whether Wells Fargo customers pay less
Wells Fargo does not publish a standard notary fee for all branches. Fees typically range from free to five dollars per signature, but some branches may charge more. Many branches offer the service free to customers who maintain a checking or savings account, while non-customers may pay a small fee.
The best way to find out the exact cost is to ask when you call to confirm availability. Do not assume the service is free even if you are a customer — policies vary by branch and by the notary's employer (some notaries are employees of the bank, while others are independent contractors working in the branch).
When Wells Fargo notary service may not work for you
If your nearest Wells Fargo branch does not have a notary, or if their hours do not match yours, you have other options. Credit unions often offer notary services to members at no cost. UPS stores and FedEx locations have notaries on staff in most areas and charge a flat fee per signature, usually between five and fifteen dollars.
Some law offices, real estate agencies, and title companies also offer notary services, sometimes free if you are a client. If you need the document notarized urgently, a mobile notary will come to your home or office, though this service costs more — typically twenty to fifty dollars per signature depending on your location and how far the notary has to travel.
What happens after the notary seals your document
Once the notary has witnessed your signature and applied their seal and signature to the document, it is complete. The notary will keep a record of the notarization in their journal, as required by state law. You can then use the notarized document for whatever purpose you need — opening a bank account, filing legal paperwork, or submitting it to a government agency.
Keep the original notarized document in a safe place. Some organizations will accept a photocopy, but many require the original with the notary's seal visible. If you lose the original, you will need to return to the notary and have them issue a certified copy from their journal, which may cost extra.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a notary at Wells Fargo without an appointment?
Some branches accept walk-ins, but others require an appointment. Call ahead to ask. Even branches that accept walk-ins may have a wait if the notary is busy, so arriving early in the day or mid-week often means a shorter wait.
Will Wells Fargo notarize a power of attorney or loan document?
It depends on the branch and state law. Some notaries will not notarize certain documents because of liability concerns or state restrictions. Call your branch and describe the document before you visit. If they cannot do it, ask them to recommend another notary in the area.
What if I do not have a photo ID?
A notary must verify your identity using a government-issued photo ID. If you do not have one, you cannot be notarized at Wells Fargo. You would need to obtain a state ID card or passport first, or find a notary who accepts alternative forms of identification — though most do not.
Can Wells Fargo notarize a document I signed before I came in?
No. The notary must watch you sign the document. If you have already signed it, the notary cannot notarize it. You will need to bring an unsigned copy and sign it in front of the notary.
How long does a notarization take?
The actual notarization usually takes five to fifteen minutes, depending on how many signatures are needed and whether the notary has questions. If there is a wait to see the notary, the total time at the branch could be longer.