Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult an attorney for guidance on specific laws regarding Remote Online Notarization (RON), digital signatures, and related legal matters. As laws concerning RON and notarization are subject to frequent changes, it is advisable to verify current regulations with your local government.
You need a document notarized, and you’re wondering: do banks have notaries? The short answer is yes, many banks do offer notary services.
But before you rush to your nearest branch, let’s talk about what that actually means and whether it’s your best option.
What Banks Offer for Notarization
Many banks and credit unions have staff members who are commissioned notaries public. These notaries can help with various documents, and if you’re an account holder, the service is often free. For non-customers, some banks may charge a small fee, typically ranging from $5 to $20 per signature, depending on state regulations.
Documents Banks Can Notarize
Bank notaries can typically handle common documents such as:
- Affidavits
- Powers of attorney
- Deeds
- Contracts
- Loan documents
- Title transfers
However, it’s important to note that a notary cannot explain the document to you or provide legal advice about its contents. They’re there solely to verify your identity and witness your signature.
The Catch with Bank Notaries
While banks do have notaries, there are some limitations you should know about:
- Availability Issues: Not all bank branches have notaries on staff, and even if they do, the notary might not be available when you need them. They may be in a meeting, out sick, or simply busy with other banking duties.
- Limited Hours: Banks typically operate during standard business hours, which means you’re limited to weekday mornings and afternoons. If you need something notarized on a weekend or evening, you’re out of luck.
- Customer-Only Policies: Some banks only provide notary services to their account holders. If you don’t bank there, you might be turned away.
- Document Restrictions: Banks may refuse to notarize certain documents, particularly wills, codicils, and some property deeds. They can also decline if they suspect fraud or if you lack proper identification.
- Appointment Requirements: Many banks now require you to schedule an appointment for notary services, which can delay your plans if the notary’s calendar is full.
Remote Online Notarization: A Modern Alternative
Given the limitations of bank notaries, you might want to consider remote online notarization (RON) as an alternative. RON allows you to get documents notarized from home without worrying about bank hours or availability.
How RON Works
With remote online notarization, you connect with a commissioned notary via video call. The process typically involves:
- Uploading your document to a secure platform
- Verifying your identity electronically
- Connecting with a notary through video
- Signing the document electronically while the notary witnesses
- Receiving your notarized document with an electronic seal
To use RON, you’ll need a laptop or computer with video and audio capability. Mobile phones and tablets are not acceptable for RON due to security requirements.
Benefits of RON Over Bank Notaries
- Flexible Scheduling: Many RON platforms offer appointments outside traditional business hours, including evenings and weekends. You’re not limited to when the bank is open.
- No Travel Required: You don’t need to drive to a branch, find parking, or wait in line. Everything happens from wherever you have internet access.
- Faster Process:The entire RON session often takes just 15 to 30 minutes, and you can typically schedule an appointment within a day or two rather than waiting for the bank notary’s availability.
- Consistent Availability: Unlike banks where the notary might be unavailable, RON platforms have multiple notaries available, so you’re more likely to get an appointment when you need one.
- Digital Records: Everything is recorded and stored electronically, creating a comprehensive audit trail that can be referenced later if needed.
Important Considerations for RON
Before choosing RON over a bank notary, you should verify a few things:
- State Regulations: Remote online notarization laws vary significantly from state to state. You need to confirm that your state permits RON and that your specific document type qualifies for remote notarization.
- Acceptance by Receiving Party: Make sure whoever needs your notarized document accepts RON. While most institutions now accept remotely notarized documents in states where RON is legal, it’s always best to confirm beforehand.
Banks vs. RON: Which Should You Choose?
The answer depends on your specific situation and priorities.
Choose a Bank Notary If:
- You’re already an account holder at a bank with notary services
- You prefer face-to-face interactions
- You have flexibility in your schedule to visit during business hours
- Your document is straightforward and commonly notarized
Choose RON If:
- You need notarization outside traditional business hours
- You want to avoid traveling to a physical location
- Your schedule is tight, and you need a faster turnaround
- You’re comfortable with technology
- Your state permits RON, and the receiving party accepts it
- You have a laptop or computer with video and audio capability
Making the Call
So, do banks have notaries? Yes, but that doesn’t necessarily make them your best option.
Before heading to a bank, consider calling ahead to confirm:
- Whether they have a notary on staff
- If the notary is available during your visit
- Whether they’ll notarize your specific document type
- If there are any fees (especially if you’re not a customer)
- Whether you need to schedule an appointment
If the answers to these questions create too many obstacles, remote online notarization might offer a more convenient path forward.
Final Thoughts
Banks do have notaries, and for simple notarization needs during business hours, they can be a convenient and cost-effective option, especially if you’re already a customer. However, the limitations around availability, hours, and document types can make bank notaries less practical for many situations.
Remote online notarization offers a modern alternative that can work around your schedule rather than requiring you to work around theirs. With flexible hours, no travel required, and quick turnaround times, RON addresses many of the pain points associated with traditional notarization.
The best choice depends on your specific needs, timeline, and comfort level with technology. Whether you opt for a bank notary or remote online notarization, the important thing is getting your document properly notarized so you can move forward with whatever transaction or legal matter you’re handling.
Remember to always verify state-specific regulations for RON and confirm acceptance with the receiving party before proceeding with either option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do All Banks Have Notaries?
No, not all banks have notaries on staff. Even major banks may not have notaries at every branch. It’s always best to call ahead and confirm.
Can I Use Any Bank’s Notary Service?
Some banks only provide notary services to their account holders. Others may offer the service to non-customers but charge a fee. You’ll need to check the specific bank’s policy.
How Much Do Banks Charge for Notarization?
For account holders, the service is often free. For non-customers, fees typically range from $5 to $20 per signature, though this varies by state and institution.
Is RON Accepted Everywhere?
RON is legal in the majority of U.S. states, but acceptance can vary. Always verify that your state permits RON and that the institution receiving your document accepts remotely notarized documents.
Can a Bank Notary Refuse Service?
Yes, notaries can refuse to notarize documents if they suspect fraud, if the signer lacks proper identification, or if the document type is one they’re not authorized or willing to notarize.
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