Can I Get a Notary at Any Bank?

A notary public is an official appointed by a state government to serve the public as an impartial witness. Their fundamental role involves verifying the identity of individuals signing important documents. Notaries confirm the signers’ willingness and awareness regarding the contents of the document, ensuring they are acting voluntarily. This process helps deter fraud and maintains the integrity of signatures on various legal and financial papers.

Notary Services at Financial Institutions

Many banks and credit unions offer notary services to their customers, and sometimes to the general public. However, the availability of these services is not universal across all financial institutions. Banks are not legally mandated to provide notary services, and their decision to do so often depends on individual branch policies, the availability of trained staff, and the volume of customer transactions requiring notarization.

Contact your bank branch in advance to confirm if a notary is available, inquire about their operating hours, and understand any specific requirements. Many financial institutions offer notary services free for account holders. Some banks may restrict notary services exclusively to their customers, while others might extend the service to non-customers for a nominal fee, typically $15 to $20 per document. Not every employee is a commissioned notary, so availability depends on staff on duty.

Requirements for Notarization

For a smooth notarization process, prepare the necessary items. The most important step is confirming your identity. Present a valid, unexpired government-issued photo identification. Acceptable forms include a state-issued driver’s license, a U.S. passport, a military identification card, or a state, county, or local government-issued ID.

The name on your identification should precisely match the name on the document you intend to have notarized. The document itself must be complete, but it should remain unsigned until you are in the presence of the notary. Signing the document will occur before the notary, who will witness your signature. The notary will ensure that you are willing to sign the document and are fully aware of its contents. Fees for notarization vary by state, with maximum charges generally ranging from $2 to $20 per signature or per person.

Locating Notary Services

If your bank does not offer notary services, or if it is inconvenient to visit your branch, other options are available. Common locations include shipping stores, such as The UPS Store or FedEx Office, which often have notaries on staff. Many public libraries also provide notary services, sometimes free; call ahead to confirm availability and hours. Some law offices, real estate firms, and even local government offices may offer notary services.

For convenience, consider searching for mobile notaries who travel to your location for a fee. This fee typically includes a travel charge plus the standard notarization cost. Online notary search tools and directories can help find notaries. Regardless of the chosen location, always contact the service provider beforehand to verify their notary availability, hours, and any applicable fees.