Many banks have notary publics on staff, but not all branches and not always for free
Some banks do employ notary publics, and many will notarize documents for customers at no charge. However, availability varies widely. A large bank might have a notary at the main branch but not at smaller locations. A credit union might have none at all. Some banks charge a fee even for customers, while others do it free. The only way to know what your bank offers is to call the specific branch where you want the service done.
If your bank does have a notary, they typically notarize only for account holders, and only during business hours. They will not notarize documents that involve the bank itself — for example, they cannot notarize a mortgage document if they are the lender. You will need to bring a valid government-issued photo ID and the document that needs notarizing.
Key Takeaways
- Not every bank branch has a notary public on staff, so you need to call ahead to confirm availability at your specific location.
- Most banks that offer notary services do so free for account holders but may charge non-customers a fee ranging from a few dollars to twenty dollars per signature.
- Banks will not notarize documents involving themselves, such as loan papers or mortgage documents where the bank is a party.
- You will need a valid government-issued photo ID and the original document when you visit for notarization.
How to learn about your bank has a notary
Start by calling the branch where you have your account or where you plan to go. Ask to speak with someone in customer service or the main office, and ask directly: "Do you have a notary public available?" If they say yes, ask whether they notarize for customers only or for anyone, whether there is a fee, and what hours the notary works. Some notaries work only certain days or only during specific hours.
If your bank does not have a notary or if their hours do not work for you, ask the staff where else in your area you might find one. Many bank employees know local notaries because customers ask this question often. You can also search online for "notary public near me" or check your state's notary licensing board, which often maintains a searchable list of licensed notaries in your area.
What banks typically charge for notary services
If you are an account holder at a bank that has a notary, the service is usually free. This is one of the perks banks offer to keep customers. However, some banks charge even their own customers a small fee — typically two to five dollars per signature.
If you are not an account holder, banks that offer notary services to the public usually charge between five and twenty dollars per signature, depending on the bank and your location. A single document might have one signature or several, so ask how many signatures your document requires before you go in. Some notaries charge per document rather than per signature, so clarify that too.
What you need to bring to the bank for notarization
Bring the original document that needs to be notarized — a photocopy will not work. Bring a valid government-issued photo ID. This can be a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. The notary needs to see your ID to confirm you are who you say you are.
Do not sign the document before you go to the bank. The notary must watch you sign it. If you have already signed it, the notary cannot notarize it, and you will need a new copy. Bring any other documents the notary asks for — for example, if you are notarizing a power of attorney, the notary may ask to see proof of your relationship to the person granting you power.
When banks cannot notarize your document
Banks will refuse to notarize documents where the bank itself is involved. If you are signing a mortgage, a home equity line of credit, a loan agreement, or any other document where the bank is a lender or a party to the transaction, you cannot use the bank's notary. This is a conflict of interest — the notary cannot be impartial if their employer stands to gain or lose from the document.
Some banks also will not notarize certain types of documents, such as powers of attorney or documents related to real estate transfers, because of liability concerns. Ask when you call whether they notarize the specific type of document you need. If they cannot, they can usually refer you to a notary who can.
Alternatives if your bank does not have a notary
Many other places offer notary services. UPS stores, FedEx Office locations, and some pharmacy chains like CVS and Walgreens have notaries on staff. These are usually open longer hours than banks and on weekends. Fees vary but are typically in the five to fifteen dollar range per signature.
You can also hire an independent notary public. Search your state's notary licensing board website or search online for "notary public" in your area. Independent notaries often come to your home or workplace, which can be convenient if you have mobility issues or a busy schedule. They usually charge more than retail locations — often fifteen to thirty dollars per signature — but the flexibility may be worth it.
Some law offices and title companies also offer notary services, though they may charge higher fees or require you to be a client. If you are working with a lawyer on a document, ask whether they can notarize it as part of your service.
What happens after the notary notarizes your document
The notary will watch you sign the document, then sign and stamp it themselves. The notary's signature, seal, and the date make the document officially notarized. The notary keeps a record of what they notarized in a journal, which is required by law. You get the original notarized document to keep or send where it needs to go.
Notarization does not mean the document is legal or binding — it only means a notary confirmed your identity and watched you sign. The document itself still has to meet all the legal requirements for whatever purpose it serves. If you are unsure whether your document is correct or complete, ask a lawyer before you get it notarized.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a notary notarize a document they wrote or have a personal interest in?
No. A notary cannot notarize a document if they wrote it, stand to gain from it, or have a personal relationship with the person signing. This is why banks cannot notarize their own loan documents. The notary must be impartial.
Do I need to make an appointment for notary services at a bank?
Some banks require an appointment, especially if the notary works only certain hours or days. Call ahead to ask. Even if appointments are not required, calling first to confirm the notary is available saves you a trip.
What if the notary is not available when I need the document notarized?
If your bank's notary is not available or your bank does not have one, UPS stores, FedEx Office, and independent notaries often have more flexible hours. Some independent notaries work evenings and weekends or will come to your location.
Can a notary notarize a document in a language other than English?
A notary can notarize a document in any language, but they must understand enough to confirm the signer knows what they are signing. If the document is in a language the notary does not speak, they may ask you to bring a translator or may decline the job.
How long does notarization take?
Notarization usually takes five to ten minutes if you have everything you need — the original document, your ID, and the correct number of signatures. If something is missing or unclear, it may take longer or the notary may ask you to come back with the right documents.