How Much Does a Bank Charge to Notarize a Document?
Demystify bank notarization costs and requirements. Learn what to expect and where else to get your documents officially verified.
Notarization is a process that validates the identities and signatures on documents, establishing trust in various legal and financial transactions. This official act helps confirm the authenticity of signatures and ensures that individuals sign documents willingly and knowingly. Notarized documents are often required for significant life events and business dealings, providing a layer of protection against fraud and ensuring legal recognition.
Bank Notary Services
Many financial institutions, particularly larger banks, offer notarization services to their clientele. This service is often provided as a convenience, as banks frequently handle documents requiring official witnessing. A bank employee, who is a state-licensed notary public, typically performs the notarization. Before visiting, contact the specific bank branch to confirm a notary is available and to inquire about their operating hours for notary services.
Notarization Costs at Banks
The cost of notarization at a bank can vary. Many institutions provide this service at no charge to existing account holders. For non-account holders, a small fee may be charged, typically ranging from a few dollars to about $10 or $15 per signature or notarial act. State laws often establish maximum fees that notaries can charge for their services.
Requirements for Bank Notary Services
When seeking notarization at a bank, individuals must present specific items to the notary public. A valid, government-issued photo identification is required to confirm identity. Acceptable forms of ID include:
A state-issued driver’s license
A state identification card
A U.S. military ID
A U.S. passport
Identification must be current and contain a photograph. The document requiring notarization must be complete in its content but remain unsigned until presented to the notary. All individuals whose signatures require notarization must be physically present before the notary. The notary may also confirm that the signer understands the purpose and content of the document before proceeding with the notarization.
Other Notary Service Providers
For those unable to utilize bank notary services, several alternative options exist. Shipping and postal service centers, such as The UPS Store, frequently provide notary services, often for a fee ranging from $6 to $10 per signature. Public notaries can also be found in various professional settings, including law offices, real estate agencies, and public libraries. Credit unions often extend notary services to their members, similar to banks, with some offering free notarization. Remote Online Notarization (RON) is an increasingly accessible option, allowing documents to be notarized virtually via webcam, with costs typically ranging from $25 to $75 per document.