Most banks offer notary services free to customers, but the policy varies by bank and account type
Many banks provide notary services at no charge to their account holders as a customer service. However, not every bank does, and those that do may limit it to certain account types or charge a fee under specific circumstances. The best way to know what your bank offers is to call the branch directly or check your account agreement, because policies differ widely even between branches of the same bank.
If your bank does charge, the fee is typically between $5 and $15 per document. Some banks charge per signature rather than per document, which matters if a single page has multiple signatures that need notarizing. A few banks offer notary services only to customers with premium accounts or minimum balance requirements.
Key Takeaways
- Most major banks offer free notary services to account holders, but you should confirm with your specific branch before relying on it.
- Banks that do charge typically ask $5 to $15 per document, though some charge per signature instead.
- Premium or high-balance accounts may have free notary as a perk while basic accounts do not.
- You may need to schedule an appointment or visit during business hours, and the notary must be present when you sign.
- If your bank does not offer notary services or charges a fee you want to avoid, credit unions, libraries, and UPS stores are common free or low-cost alternatives.
How to find out what your bank charges
The fastest way is to call your branch directly and ask whether notary services are free for your account type. Have your account number ready, because some banks tie the benefit to specific account tiers. If you are calling a large bank with many branches, ask whether the policy is the same at all locations, since some banks let individual branches set their own fees.
You can also check your account agreement or the bank's website, though the website may list only the general policy and not mention branch-level exceptions. If you cannot find a clear answer online, a five-minute phone call to your branch will save you a trip. Ask whether you need an appointment or can walk in, and whether the notary is available during all business hours.
When banks charge a fee for notary services
Banks most often charge when you are not an account holder, or when you have a basic checking account rather than a premium one. Some banks charge if you need the notary to travel to you, or if you need multiple documents notarized in a single visit and they charge per signature rather than per document.
A few banks charge a fee even to account holders if the notarization is for a real estate transaction, a loan, or another high-stakes document. This is less common, but it happens. Ask specifically about the type of document you need notarized, because the fee may depend on what it is for.
What to bring when you visit for notary services
Bring a valid photo ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The notary must see your ID and confirm it matches your signature. Bring the original document that needs notarizing; the notary cannot work from a photocopy or digital file. If the document is not yet signed, bring it unsigned, because the notary must watch you sign it.
If someone else is signing the document on your behalf, they must be present with their own photo ID. The notary cannot notarize a signature that was already made before the appointment. Bring any additional documents the notary might need, such as a power of attorney or proof of address if the notary asks for it.
Free and low-cost notary alternatives if your bank charges
Credit unions often offer free notary services to members, even if your bank charges. Many public libraries provide free notary services, though availability varies by location and some require an appointment. UPS stores and FedEx Office locations typically charge $5 to $15 per document, which is comparable to bank fees but may be more convenient if a location is near you.
Some employers offer notary services to employees at no charge. If you are buying or selling a home, your real estate agent or title company may provide notary services as part of the transaction. Online notary services exist in most states, though they work differently—you sign the document electronically with the notary watching via video—and they usually charge $25 to $50 per document.
What happens if you use a notary who charges versus one who does not
The notarization itself is identical regardless of whether you paid a fee. The notary's job is the same: verify your identity, watch you sign, and add their seal and signature to confirm they witnessed the signing. The document is equally valid whether the notary charged you $0 or $15.
The only practical difference is cost and convenience. If your bank offers free notary and is open when you need it, that is usually the easiest option. If your bank charges or is not convenient, comparing a few alternatives—your credit union, a nearby library, or a UPS store—takes a few minutes and can save you money.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to use my bank's notary, or can I go anywhere?
You can use any notary you want. The document will be equally valid whether the notary works for your bank, a library, or a private service. Choose based on cost, location, and hours that work for you.
Can a notary notarize a document that is already signed?
No. The notary must watch you sign the document in front of them. If it is already signed, they cannot notarize it. You will need a new copy and must sign it during the appointment.
What if I do not have a photo ID?
The notary cannot proceed without a valid photo ID. If you do not have a driver's license or passport, you will need to get a state ID card from your local DMV before you can be notarized. Some notaries may accept other forms of ID in rare cases, but photo ID is the standard requirement.
How long does a notarization take?
Most notarizations take 5 to 10 minutes. The notary will check your ID, have you sign the document, and add their seal and signature. If you have multiple documents or signatures, it may take longer.
Can I notarize a document for a family member?
No. A notary cannot notarize a document for someone they are related to or have a financial interest in. The notary must be impartial. You will need to find a different notary who has no connection to the signer.