Most banks do offer notary services, but availability depends on your bank, your account status, and whether you have an appointment
Many banks have notaries on staff or can connect you with one, but it is not may provide at every location. Large national banks like Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Chase typically have notaries available at most branches, though some smaller branches may not. Credit unions and regional banks vary widely — some have notaries at every branch, others at none. The fastest way to know is to call your specific branch and ask whether a notary is available, what documents they can notarize, and whether you need an appointment.
Banks usually notarize documents for free or for a small fee if you have an account with them. Non-customers may pay $5 to $15 per signature, depending on the bank. Some banks will only notarize documents related to banking (loan papers, account authorizations) while others notarize any document that is legal to notarize. A few banks have stopped offering notary services altogether, so calling ahead saves a wasted trip.
Key Takeaways
- Call your bank branch directly to ask if a notary is available, because availability varies by location and is not listed online at most banks.
- Account holders usually get notary services free or at a low cost, while non-customers typically pay $5 to $15 per signature.
- Some banks only notarize banking-related documents, while others will notarize any legal document you bring in.
- If your bank does not have a notary, ask the branch staff for a referral to a nearby notary public, which they often have on file.
How to learn about your bank has a notary
Start by calling the branch where you hold your account. Ask specifically whether a notary is available, what their hours are, and whether you need to schedule an appointment. Do not rely on the bank's website or the main customer service line — branch staff know the actual situation at their location, and websites are often out of date.
If you do not have an account at a particular bank, call and ask whether they notarize for non-customers and what the fee is. Some banks will turn you away when ready; others will help you. Having this information before you go saves time.
What documents banks will and will not notarize
Banks can notarize any document that is legal to notarize — there is no legal restriction that stops a notary from notarizing a will, power of attorney, or affidavit just because they work at a bank. However, individual banks set their own policies. Some will notarize only documents related to banking or accounts. Others will notarize anything. A few will refuse documents that seem risky, like powers of attorney, even though they are legal to notarize.
When you call, tell the bank what document you need notarized. If they say no, ask whether they can refer you to another notary. If they say yes, ask what you need to bring: usually your government-issued ID and the document itself, unsigned. The notary will watch you sign it in front of them.
When to expect to pay a fee
Account holders at most banks pay nothing for notary services. Some banks charge $5 to $10 per signature even for account holders, especially if you are notarizing multiple documents. Non-customers usually pay $5 to $15 per signature. A few banks have stopped offering notary services and will not notarize anything, regardless of whether you are a customer.
Ask about the fee when you call. If the bank charges more than you want to pay, ask for a referral to a notary public in the area — many charge $2 to $5 per signature and are often faster than banks because they do not have a line of customers waiting.
What to bring when you go to get a document notarized
Bring a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card). Bring the document you need notarized, unsigned. The notary will watch you sign it in front of them — they cannot notarize a document you have already signed. If the document has multiple pages, bring all of them.
If you are notarizing a document on behalf of a business or organization, bring proof that you are authorized to sign on their behalf — this might be a board resolution, a power of attorney, or a letter from the owner. The notary will ask questions about what you are signing and why. Answer honestly. If the notary thinks something is wrong or suspicious, they can refuse to notarize the document.
Alternatives if your bank does not have a notary
If your bank does not offer notary services, ask the branch staff for a referral. Many banks keep a list of local notaries they recommend. You can also search online for "notary public near me" — most notaries advertise their location and hours. UPS stores, FedEx locations, and some pharmacies (like Walgreens and CVS) have notaries on staff at many locations. Real estate agents and title companies also notarize documents, though they may charge more.
Some notaries work from home or a small office and charge less than banks or retail locations. Call ahead to confirm they are available and what they charge. If you need the document notarized urgently, ask whether they have same-day or next-day appointments.
What happens if a bank refuses to notarize your document
A notary can refuse to notarize a document if they think something is wrong — for example, if they believe you are being pressured to sign, if the document looks forged, or if you cannot prove your identity. This is legal and protects you. If a bank refuses, ask why. If the reason is a policy (they only notarize banking documents), go elsewhere. If the reason is that the notary suspects fraud or coercion, listen to them — they may be right.
If you disagree with the refusal, you can ask to speak to a manager, but the notary's decision stands. Your best option is to find another notary and explain the situation to them. Be honest about what the first notary said. A second notary may be willing to proceed if they believe your explanation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a bank notarize a document if I am not a customer?
Many banks will notarize for non-customers, but some will not. Call your nearest branch and ask. If they say yes, expect to pay $5 to $15 per signature. If they say no, ask for a referral to a local notary public.
Do I have to sign the document before I go to the bank?
No. The notary must watch you sign the document in front of them. Bring it unsigned. If you have already signed it, the notary cannot notarize it and you will need to get a new copy.
How long does it take to get a document notarized at a bank?
Usually 5 to 15 minutes if you have an appointment or if the notary is not busy. Walk-ins may wait longer, especially during lunch hours or on Fridays. Call ahead to schedule an appointment if you can.
What if the bank says they cannot notarize my specific document?
Ask why. If it is a policy issue, ask for a referral to another notary. If the notary thinks the document is suspicious or you are being pressured, listen to them — they may be protecting you from fraud.
Can a notary at a bank notarize a power of attorney?
Yes, notaries can legally notarize powers of attorney. However, some banks have internal policies that prevent their notaries from doing so. Call ahead and ask your specific bank whether they will notarize a power of attorney.