Do Banks Notarize Documents for Free?

Notarization is a process that verifies signatures on documents, confirming the identity of the signer and ensuring they sign willingly. This official act helps deter fraud and provides authenticity to various legal and financial papers. Documents requiring notarization are common in many personal and business transactions, adding a layer of security and trust to agreements.

Bank Notarization Services and Fees

Many banks offer notarization services, often as a convenience for their customers. Generally, if you hold an account with a bank, they may provide notarization for free or at a reduced cost. This service is typically available for those with checking, savings, or CD accounts.

For individuals who do not have an account with the bank, a fee is usually charged for notarization services. While specific costs can vary, notary fees are generally low, often ranging from $5 to $15 per signature, depending on state regulations. It is advisable to call ahead to your specific bank branch to confirm notary availability and any applicable fees, as policies can differ even within the same bank chain.

Preparing for Notarization at a Bank

Before visiting a bank for notarization, it is important to gather specific items to ensure a smooth process. You must bring a valid, government-issued photo identification. Acceptable forms of ID typically include a state-issued driver’s license, state-issued identification card, U.S. passport, or U.S. military identification card.

The document to be notarized must be complete but not signed. The signing must occur in the notary’s presence to verify your identity and willingness to sign. If the document requires multiple signers, all parties whose signatures need notarization must be present with their valid identification. Some documents may also require witnesses in addition to the notary; if so, these witnesses must also be present and have their own valid identification.

Documents Banks Can Notarize

Banks typically notarize a wide array of documents that have legal or financial significance. Common examples include affidavits, powers of attorney, deeds, loan documents, contracts, and certain legal forms.

However, there are limitations on what a bank notary can notarize. Banks generally do not notarize documents that appear incomplete, fraudulent, or involve a conflict of interest for the notary. Notaries cannot provide legal advice or interpret the contents of a document. Furthermore, many banks have policies against notarizing certain complex documents such as wills, trusts, certified copies of vital records (like birth or marriage certificates), or I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification forms, primarily due to elevated legal risks and specific witness requirements.

The Notarization Procedure

The notarization process itself is straightforward. You will approach a bank representative who is a commissioned notary public. The notary’s primary role is to verify your identity. They will carefully examine your government-issued photo identification to confirm it matches your appearance and the name on the document.

After identity verification, you will sign the document in the notary’s direct presence. The notary will then complete the notarial certificate, sign it, and affix their official seal or stamp to the document. This seal typically includes the notary’s name, commissioning state, and commission expiration date. Notaries also maintain a record of all notarized documents in a journal, noting details of the transaction.

Other Notarization Options

If obtaining notarization at a bank is not feasible, several other options are available. Professional notary public services can be found through online searches or local directories. Many retail locations, such as The UPS Store, offer notary services, typically for a fee ranging from $5 to $15 per notarized document.

Some law offices or real estate offices may also have notaries on staff. Public libraries in certain areas provide notary services, sometimes for free or a minimal charge. Remote online notarization (RON) allows individuals to get documents notarized virtually through a secure video call with a commissioned notary, offering flexibility from almost anywhere.