Do Banks Notarize Letters? What You Need to Know
Navigate bank notary services: learn what documents are accepted, preparation steps, the notarization process, and alternative options.
Many individuals find themselves needing to notarize important documents, from financial paperwork to legal agreements. A common question that arises is whether banks provide notary services for documents like letters. Many banks and credit unions offer notary services, often complimentary for their customers. Notarization involves a certified notary public verifying your identity and witnessing your signature on a document, which helps deter fraud and ensure authenticity.
Bank Notary Services
Banks frequently offer notary services because they regularly handle documents requiring notarization, such as loan agreements, affidavits, or powers of attorney. While they notarize various types of documents, including letters, the notary’s role is to verify the signer’s identity and witness the signature, not to validate content or legality. The notary public is an impartial witness to the signing process.
Some banks may have specific policies regarding the types of documents they will or will not notarize; for instance, certain institutions might not notarize real estate documents or wills. Contact your bank branch in advance to confirm notary availability and inquire about any requirements or restrictions. This can save time and ensure your document is properly notarized.
Preparing for Notarization at a Bank
Proper preparation is essential before visiting a bank for notarization to ensure a smooth process. You must bring a valid, government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license, state ID card, or passport. This identification must be current, include a photograph, signature, and physical description, and the name on the ID should precisely match the name on the document you intend to sign. Notaries are required to confirm the signer’s identity to prevent fraud.
Bring the complete letter or document that requires notarization. Do not sign the document beforehand, as the notary must witness your signature. The notary’s function is to verify that you are the person signing and doing so willingly. While the notary does not provide legal advice or verify the document’s content, you should fully understand what you are signing. Call the bank ahead of time to confirm a notary’s availability, as not all branches have a notary on staff.
The Notarization Process and Fees
Once you arrive at the bank with your prepared documents and identification, the notarization process typically involves several steps. The notary will examine your government-issued identification to verify your identity. They will check that the photo, signature, and physical description on your ID match your appearance and the information on the document.
After identity verification, you will sign the document in the notary’s presence. The notary will then complete the notarial certificate, apply their official stamp or seal, and sign the document. Many notaries also maintain a journal to record the details of each notarization, including the date, type of document, signer’s name, and method of identification.
Many banks offer notary services free to their customers. For non-customers, some banks may charge a small fee, typically ranging from $15 to $20 per document. Confirm any potential fees with the bank beforehand.
Alternative Notarization Options
If a bank’s notary services are unavailable or inconvenient, several alternative options exist for notarizing documents. Public notaries are individuals commissioned by their state government to perform notarial acts, and many offer their services independently. Shipping and mail centers, such as UPS Stores or FedEx Office locations, frequently have notaries on staff, providing a convenient option for many.
Remote online notarization (RON) has become increasingly available, allowing notarizations to be completed virtually using audio-visual technology and secure identity verification. Most states have enacted laws permitting some form of RON, offering flexibility for those unable to appear in person. Some attorney offices, real estate offices, county clerk offices, and public libraries may also provide notary services.