Getting a document notarized is a common requirement for legal, financial, and business transactions. Notaries verify identities and witness signatures to prevent fraud. Many banks offer notary services, but some charge a fee, while others provide it for free—especially for account holders.
This guide will help you find banks that notarize documents at no cost. Whether you need a power of attorney, affidavit, or loan document notarized, knowing where to go can save you time and money.
How Notary Services Work at Banks
A notary public serves as an official witness for signatures on important documents. Their job is to confirm identities, ensure all parties sign willingly, and help prevent fraud. Banks often have notaries on staff, making it convenient for customers to get documents notarized without visiting a separate notary service.
Documents That Require Notarization
Notary services are commonly used for legal and financial paperwork. Some of the most frequently notarized documents include:
- Affidavits
- Real estate deeds
- Powers of attorney
- Loan agreements
- Wills and trusts
- Vehicle title transfers
Bank Policies on Notary Services
Many banks offer notary services, but policies vary. Some provide free notarization for account holders, while others charge a fee. A few banks extend this service to non-customers for a small charge. Availability may also depend on location and staff certification, so calling ahead is a good idea before making a trip.
Banks That Offer Free Notary Services
Many banks provide free notary services to customers, making it easy to get important documents notarized without extra costs. Below is a list of national, regional, and credit union options that offer this service.
National Banks
- Bank of America: Free notary services for account holders at many branches. Availability varies by location.
- Chase Bank: Customers can access free notary services at most branch locations. Call ahead to confirm availability.
- Citibank: Offers complimentary notary services to clients, though not all locations have a notary on staff.
- PNC Bank: Account holders can use free notary services at select branches.
- U.S. Bank: Free notary services are available to customers at many branches. Contact your local branch to verify.
- Wells Fargo: Provides free notary services for account holders. Some branches may require an appointment.
Credit Unions
- American Airlines Federal Credit Union: Provides complimentary notary services at most branches. Membership is open to employees of American Airlines, their families, and others in the air transportation industry.
- BECU (Boeing Employees’ Credit Union): Offers free notary services to members at all locations. Membership is available to residents of Washington state and select counties in Oregon and Idaho, as well as Boeing employees and their families.
- Navy Federal Credit Union: Members can access free notary services at various branch locations. Membership is open to active duty, retired, and veteran military personnel, as well as their families.
- Local Credit Unions: Many local credit unions provide free notary services to their members. It’s advisable to contact your local branch to confirm availability.
Regional and Community Banks
- Fifth Third Bank: Account holders can get documents notarized at no cost at select locations.
- KeyBank: Customers can get documents notarized for free at select locations.
- M&T Bank: Free notary services are available for account holders at participating branches.
- Regions Bank: Provides free notary services to customers at many branches. Some locations may charge a fee for non-customers.
- Truist: Offers free notary services to customers at participating branches. Call ahead for availability.
Things to Know Before Visiting a Notary at a Bank
- Availability: Not all branches have a notary on staff. Call ahead to confirm.
- Non-Customers: Most banks only offer free notary services to account holders. Non-customers may be charged a fee.
- Identification: Bring a valid government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license or passport.
- Document Preparation: Ensure all documents are complete but unsigned. Signatures must be witnessed by the notary.
Using a bank’s free notary service is a convenient way to handle legal and financial paperwork. Always check with your local branch to confirm policies and availability.
Who qualifies for free notary services at banks?
Banks usually provide free notary services as a benefit for their customers, but policies can vary. Here’s what to expect when looking for free notary services at a bank.
- Account Holders: Most banks offer free notary services to customers with a checking, savings, or other account. This is a standard perk at many national and regional banks.
- Non-Customers: Some banks may notarize documents for non-customers, but they often charge a fee. A few locations might offer free notarization as a goodwill service, but this is less common.
- Premium or Business Account Holders: Customers with high-tier or business accounts may have access to additional notary services, such as notarization for a larger volume of documents or priority service.
It’s always a good idea to call ahead and confirm your bank’s policies before visiting. Some locations require appointments, while others provide walk-in services.
What to Bring for a Free Notarization at a Bank
Before heading to a bank for free notary services, make sure you have everything needed to complete the process. Banks have strict guidelines for notarization, and missing any required items can delay the service.
- Valid Government-Issued Photo ID: A driver’s license, passport, or state-issued ID is required to verify your identity. Some banks may also accept military or tribal IDs.
- The Document(s) to Be Notarized: Bring the original document in its entirety. It must be unsigned, as the notary must witness the signature. Some banks may refuse to notarize documents with missing pages.
- Any Required Witnesses: Certain documents, such as wills and power of attorney forms, may require additional witnesses. Banks typically do not provide witnesses, so you may need to bring your own.
Checking with your bank in advance ensures you meet all requirements and avoid unnecessary trips. Some locations may also require an appointment, so it’s best to call ahead.
Alternatives to Bank Notary Services
If your bank doesn’t offer free notary services, or you’re not a customer, there are other ways to get documents notarized. Some options are free or low-cost, while others charge a fee for convenience.
- UPS Stores: Many UPS Store locations have a notary on staff. While they charge a fee, they offer extended hours and walk-in availability, making it a convenient option.
- Local Government Offices: Courthouses, town halls, and county clerk offices often provide notary services. Some offer free or low-cost notarization, especially for local residents.
- Online Notary Services: Remote notarization platforms like Notarize.com and NotaryCam allow you to get documents notarized from anywhere. These services are convenient, but typically charge a fee.
- Libraries and Community Centers: Some public libraries and community centers offer free notary services. Availability varies, so check with your local branch to see if they provide this service.
Exploring these alternatives ensures you can get documents notarized, even if your bank doesn’t offer the service for free. Always confirm fees and requirements before visiting.
Tips for Finding Free Notary Services
Notary services aren’t always free, and availability can vary by location. Use these tips to increase your chances of finding a free notary service when you need one.
- Call ahead to confirm availability and fees: Not all bank branches have a notary on staff, and some may charge a fee. Calling in advance ensures you don’t waste a trip.
- Ask about appointment requirements: Some banks and government offices require an appointment for notarization, while others accept walk-ins. Checking ahead saves time.
- Check employer benefits: Some workplaces, especially large corporations and financial institutions, offer free notary services for employees. If you need notarization frequently, this can be a convenient option.
- Look for community events: Libraries, senior centers, and community organizations occasionally hold events where notary services are provided for free. These can be great opportunities to get documents notarized without a fee.
Conclusion
Many banks offer free notary services to their account holders, making it easy to get important documents authenticated without extra costs. If your bank doesn’t provide this service, alternatives like government offices, libraries, and online notary platforms can help.
Always verify in advance whether a notary is available, whether an appointment is required, and what documents you need to bring. A little planning ensures a smooth, hassle-free notarization process.