What is the easiest way to get a document notarized?
Asked by: Aubrey Sporer II | Last update: February 4, 2026Score: 4.3/5 (70 votes)
The easiest way to get a document notarized involves choosing between in-person convenience (banks, UPS Stores, libraries), especially for walk-ins or quick visits, or digital speed with online notary services (like Notarize.com) for 24/7, remote notarization, with the key to ease being preparation: have your un-signed document, valid photo ID (name matching ID), and know the type of notarization needed (acknowledgment, jurat) before going or logging in.
Can I walk into a bank and get something notarized?
In most cases, the best and fastest way to find a notary for your legal or financial document is to visit a local branch of your bank.
What is the easiest way to get something notarized?
The easiest way to get something notarized is often finding a notary at your bank or a shipping center like UPS, but for ultimate convenience, mobile notaries come to you, and if your state allows, online notarization (RON) offers 24/7 digital access, making it super fast and easy if you prefer a virtual process.
Can I notarize at CVS?
Yes, CVS offers notary services at select locations and times, but it's not guaranteed at every store, so you need to use the store locator on the CVS website to check availability and hours for your specific store before visiting. Notary availability varies day-to-day, and while some stores might not list it online, they might still have a notary.
How quickly can you get something notarized?
In most situations, notaries can typically process a document within 10-15 minutes, including verifying your identification, any required signatures on the documents, administering oaths if needed, and recordkeeping.
The Step by Step Guide to Getting Your Document Notarized
Does staples notarize documents?
Yes, Staples offers notary services, primarily through online partnerships with providers like Notarize (in the US) and NotaryPro (in Canada), allowing for virtual notarization 24/7, though some physical stores might offer in-person options, so it's best to check your local store for specific availability. You can get documents notarized online using your device or visit specific store locations for assisted services, with fees typically around $25 for the first seal.
Does Walgreens do notary service?
Yes, many Walgreens locations offer notary services, but not all of them do, and availability varies by store, so you must use the Walgreens store locator or call ahead to confirm if your local store has a notary and their specific hours before visiting. Walgreens provides general notary work, but you need to bring complete, ready-to-sign documents and a valid government-issued photo ID.
Do banks offer free notary services?
Yes, many banks offer free notary services, especially for their account holders, as a perk, but it's not guaranteed and policies vary, so always call ahead to confirm availability, fees (if any for non-customers), and if they notarize your specific document type, as some banks restrict certain documents or only serve customers.
How much does UPS charge to notarize?
UPS Store notary costs typically range from $5 to $15 per signature, with many locations charging around $10 per principal signature, though prices vary by store, state law (which sets maximums, like $15 in CA), and document complexity. Always call your local UPS Store first to confirm their exact fee, as it depends on the number of people signing (principal) and specific state regulations.
Can I notarize a document myself?
In short, you cannot notarize your own documents. Despite having the technical understanding, it's against notary laws to certify your own paperwork. This rule was established to ensure that the notarization process remains unbiased and prevents any potential conflicts of interest or ethical problems.
What is the most common mistake made by a notary?
The most common and serious mistake a notary makes is failing to ensure the signer personally appears before them, which is a legal violation and can lead to fraud and major penalties, but other frequent errors involve incomplete or incorrect notarial certificates, such as missing dates, improper seal placement, illegible stamps, mismatched names, or attaching the wrong certificate type, all of which can invalidate the document.
How do I notarize a document for free?
You can often get free notarization at your bank or credit union (especially for members), public libraries, AAA branches, some shipping centers (like UPS), and certain government offices or funeral homes, but you must bring proper photo ID and the unsigned document; call ahead as availability varies, and be aware that online or mobile services usually charge a fee.
What bank does notaries for free?
Bank of America, TD Bank, Wells Fargo, and U.S. Bank often provide free notary services for customers, but availability varies by branch, so it's best to call ahead; Bank of America and TD Bank explicitly state they offer free services, with TD also serving non-customers in some states, while Wells Fargo and U.S. Bank provide them at many locations, requiring you to check their branch locators.
How much does a notary cost at US Bank?
The cost of notary services at US Bank may vary based on the type and number of documents. For customers, the fee is typically nominal, and in some cases, it may even be complimentary. Non-customers may pay a slightly higher fee typically starting at $15 per signature.
Can a bank teller be a notary?
Like other notaries, bank notaries must complete the required training that's mandated by state law in order to receive a commission. Any bank employee who meets the eligibility requirements can complete notary training. This can include tellers, loan officers, or investment bankers.
Do you need an appointment at a bank to get something notarized?
We'll need to see you in person. You can access our Smart Assistant online or by using the U.S. Bank Mobile App. Simply type or say "Schedule an appointment for notary services." Enter the location near you and follow the prompts to schedule an appointment.
How much is the notary fee?
A notary cost typically ranges from $2 to $20 per signature or act, depending on the state's fee limits, with many states setting maximums like $5-$15 for acknowledgments or jurats, though mobile notaries and complex jobs (like mortgage closings) can cost more, while many banks offer free services for account holders. Costs vary significantly by location and service, so always check your state's regulations.
How much does Wells Fargo charge for notary services?
Wells Fargo
Founded in 1852 in California during the Gold Rush, Wells Fargo provided banking and express delivery services to miners and settlers. The bank empowered people to move their money or supplies throughout the United States. Today, Wells Fargo also provides free notary services to its customers.
How much does CVS charge for notary?
CVS notary costs vary by state but are generally affordable, often around $5-$15 per signature, though some locations might charge slightly more or have specific fees for certain acts. It's crucial to call your local CVS first to confirm they have a notary available and to ask about their specific pricing, as not all stores offer this service, and hours/availability change daily.
Where is the easiest place to get something notarized?
The easiest places to get something notarized are often your bank/credit union (especially if you're a customer, potentially free), a UPS Store/shipping center, a public library, or through an online notary service for 24/7 availability, with mobile notaries also offering convenience but at a higher cost. Call ahead to confirm hours and availability, as not every branch or location has a notary on staff at all times.
Is Staples a notary public?
Yes, Staples offers notary services, primarily through online partnerships with providers like Notarize (in the US) and NotaryPro (in Canada), allowing for virtual notarization 24/7, though some physical stores might offer in-person options, so it's best to check your local store for specific availability. You can get documents notarized online using your device or visit specific store locations for assisted services, with fees typically around $25 for the first seal.
Can banks notarize documents for free?
Yes, many banks offer free notary services, especially for their account holders, as a perk, but it's not guaranteed and policies vary, so always call ahead to confirm availability, fees (if any for non-customers), and if they notarize your specific document type, as some banks restrict certain documents or only serve customers.
How much to notarize at FedEx?
FedEx offers online notary services through Notarize, typically costing $25 for the first seal on a single document, with an extra $10 for each additional seal or supplied witness, though physical location fees can vary and some authorized centers might offer lower rates. Not all FedEx locations provide in-person notary services, and state laws dictate fees, so it's best to check online or call ahead.
How much does UPS charge to notarize a signature?
UPS Store notary costs typically range from $5 to $15 per signature, with many locations charging around $10 per principal signature, though prices vary by store, state law (which sets maximums, like $15 in CA), and document complexity. Always call your local UPS Store first to confirm their exact fee, as it depends on the number of people signing (principal) and specific state regulations.