Do Banks Have a Notary Public for Customers?

A notary public is an official appointed by a state government to serve as an impartial witness to the signing of important documents. Their primary role involves verifying identities and ensuring signers act willingly. This process helps deter fraud and confirms signature authenticity, providing security for transactions. Notarization is a fundamental step in establishing the legal validity and trustworthiness of many financial and legal papers, ensuring they are properly executed and reliable.

Notary Services at Financial Institutions

Many financial institutions, including banks and credit unions, frequently provide notary public services. This offers convenience for customers and complements their financial services. While not every branch may have a notary available at all times, many have at least one employee commissioned as a notary. Notary services are typically available during standard business hours; calling ahead to confirm availability is advisable.

For account holders, these services are often provided free of charge, adding value to their banking relationship. Non-account holders may still utilize the service, though a small fee is usually assessed. These fees commonly range from $5 to $25 per notarized signature. Financial institutions are a practical option for notarization due to their regular involvement with legal and financial paperwork.

Preparing for Notarization

When preparing for notarization, a valid, government-issued photo identification is essential. Acceptable forms include an unexpired driver’s license, a state-issued identification card, or a passport. The identification must contain a photograph and a signature to allow the notary to confirm your identity accurately.

Bring the complete document unsigned; signing must occur in the notary’s presence. The notary verifies your identity, witnesses your signature, and affixes their official stamp or seal and signature to certify authenticity and willingness. If the document requires additional witnesses, such as for certain deeds or wills, they must also be present with valid identification. Notaries cannot typically provide witnesses, so you must arrange for them yourself.

Finding Notary Services Beyond Banks

For those unable to access notary services at a bank, several other options exist. Shipping service stores, such as The UPS Store or FedEx Office, frequently have notaries on staff. These locations often charge a fee per signature, typically ranging from $6 to $25. Public libraries are another resource, with many offering free or low-cost notary services, though availability may be limited and appointments often required.

Professional offices, including real estate agencies, law firms, and local government offices, may also have notaries available to the public. Online notary services offer flexibility, allowing remote notarization via video conference. While generally accepted, online notarization requirements vary by state, so confirm acceptance with the document’s recipient.