Do Most Banks Have a Notary Public Available?

Notarization is a process that verifies identities and witnesses signatures on documents, playing a significant role in preventing fraud and ensuring the authenticity of legal and financial transactions. A notary public, commissioned by a state government, acts as an impartial witness to confirm that a document’s signature is genuine, the signer acts without duress, and they intend for the document’s terms to be effective. This process provides an added layer of security and trust for various important papers, from real estate deeds to powers of attorney.

Availability of Notary Services at Banks

Many banks and credit unions offer notary services, often as a courtesy to their customers. Major financial institutions frequently have notaries available in at least some of their branches. However, the availability can vary significantly depending on the specific bank, branch size, and location.

Banks often provide notary services free to account holders, though some may impose a small fee, typically ranging from $15 to $20, for non-customers. It is always advisable to call ahead to your local branch to confirm notary availability, as some locations may require an appointment or have specific hours for notary services. Additionally, bank notaries might have limitations on the types of documents they are authorized to notarize, so inquiring about your specific document in advance is a good practice.

Preparing for Notarization

Preparation ensures a smooth process. Bring a valid, current, government-issued photo identification. Acceptable forms of ID commonly include a state-issued driver’s license or identification card, a U.S. military ID, or a U.S. passport. This identification helps the notary verify your identity, which is a primary duty of their role.

Bring the complete, unsigned document you intend to have notarized. The notary must witness your signature; signing beforehand requires re-signing in their presence. It is also important to understand that a notary’s role is to verify identity and witness the signature, not to offer legal advice or review the document’s content for accuracy or legality. If there are any fees, inquire about them beforehand.

Finding a Notary Beyond Banks

If bank services are not convenient, other locations offer notary services. Mail service stores like The UPS Store or FedEx Office often have notaries, typically charging a fee for their services. Many public libraries also provide notary services, sometimes free of charge, but availability can vary, and it is best to call ahead to confirm.

Some law offices, real estate firms, and tax preparation services may have notaries, particularly for clients. Online notary directories and platforms can help locate notaries, including mobile notaries who travel to you. Remote online notarization (RON) is also becoming more prevalent, allowing for notarization via video conference, though state-specific laws and document types may dictate its applicability.