You don't always need to hire a mobile notary or pay for an online service. Many banks, retail stores, and community organizations offer notary services for free or at very low cost. Here's where to find affordable notarization and how to make the most of it.
Banks That Offer Free Notary Services
Banks are the best-kept secret for free notarization. Most major banks provide notary services at no charge for account holders. If you already have a checking or savings account, this should be your first stop.
Bank of America
Bank of America offers free notary services for account holders at most branches. Call ahead to confirm a notary is available - not all branches have one on staff every day. Walk-ins are accepted but availability depends on the branch's schedule.
Chase Bank
Chase provides free notary services for Chase customers at most branches during regular business hours. Bring your Chase debit card or account number for verification. As with all banks, calling ahead to confirm availability is recommended.
Wells Fargo
Wells Fargo offers free notary services for account holders. The same call-ahead policy applies - notary availability varies by branch and day. Weekday mornings typically offer the best availability.
Credit Unions
Most credit unions offer free notary services to their members, and they are often more flexible than big banks about scheduling and document types. If you belong to a credit union, check with them first.
Important note: Banks typically will not notarize real estate or loan documents from other financial institutions. If you need a loan signing or real estate closing notarized, you will likely need a dedicated mobile notary or signing agent.
UPS Store Notary Services
Most UPS Store locations offer notary services, making them one of the most convenient walk-in options. With over 5,000 locations nationwide, there is likely one near you.
- Cost: typically $5–$15 per signature (varies by state regulations)
- Appointment: usually not required, but call ahead to confirm a notary is on duty
- What to bring: your unsigned document and a valid photo ID
FedEx Office Notary Services
Many FedEx Office locations have notaries on staff, with costs similar to UPS Store. Availability varies more than UPS - definitely call first to confirm. FedEx Office is a good option if you also need printing, copying, or shipping services for your documents.
Other Affordable Notary Locations
- AAA offices - some branches offer notary services to members at no charge
- Public libraries - a growing number of libraries offer free notary services to the community
- Tax preparation offices - H&R Block and similar offices sometimes have notaries on staff during tax season
- Real estate offices - may offer notary services, especially during transaction periods
- Auto dealerships - many have notaries on staff for title work and may help with other documents
- Shipping centers - PostalAnnex, Pak Mail, and similar stores often provide notary services
Notary Cost Comparison
| Location | Typical Cost | Appointment Needed? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bank (account holder) | Free | Call ahead | Simple personal documents |
| UPS Store | $5–$15/signature | Usually not | Walk-in convenience |
| FedEx Office | $5–$15/signature | Call ahead | Print + notarize combo |
| Library | Free | Varies | Budget-friendly option |
| AAA | Free (members) | Call ahead | AAA members |
| Online (RON) | ~$25 flat | No | 24/7 availability, any device |
When Free or Cheap Isn't the Right Choice
Sometimes paying more for a specialized notary service is worth it:
- Complex real estate closings - you need a trained signing agent, not a general notary
- After-hours or weekend urgency - online notarization (RON) is available 24/7 for about $25
- Can't leave home or hospital - a mobile notary will come to you
- Need it done right now from your couch - RON at $25 is faster than driving anywhere
Tips for Saving Money
- Batch your documents - bring everything that needs notarizing in one visit
- Use your bank first - it is the most reliable free option for account holders
- Ask about fees upfront - prices vary even between locations of the same chain
- Compare UPS vs FedEx in your area - one may be cheaper depending on your state
- Consider RON for multi-signature documents - a flat $25 can be cheaper than per-signature pricing
Find a walk-in notary location on our walk-in notary page, learn more about notary fees by state, or use our directory to find a notary near you.