Chase Bank's Notary Services
Chase Bank does not offer notary services at most of its branches. While some individual Chase locations may have a notary on staff, this is not a standard service the bank provides, and you cannot count on finding one at your local branch. Chase's official position is that notarization falls outside its core banking services.
If you need a document notarized, you will need to look elsewhere. The good news is that notaries are widely available through multiple channels, and many options are faster and cheaper than you might expect.
Key Takeaways
- Chase Bank does not provide notary services as a standard offering across its branches.
- Some Chase locations may have a notary available, but calling ahead is the only way to know for certain.
- Notaries are available through banks that do offer the service, UPS stores, law offices, and online notary platforms.
- Online notary services can complete the process in minutes if your state allows remote notarization.
- Many notaries charge between $5 and $15 per signature, though prices vary by location and service type.
Where to Find a Notary If Chase Does Not Have One
Other banks often provide notary services to their customers at no charge or for a small fee. Banks like Wells Fargo, Bank of America, and many credit unions offer notarization. Call your bank's customer service line or visit a branch to ask whether they have a notary available.
UPS stores (The UPS Store locations) are among the most accessible notary options. Most UPS stores employ notaries, and you do not need to be a customer to use the service. You can search for nearby locations on the UPS website and call ahead to confirm a notary is available and to ask about their fee.
Law offices and title companies almost always have notaries on staff. If you are having a document notarized as part of a legal transaction, the attorney or title company handling your case may notarize it for free or as part of their service.
Online Notary Services
Online notary platforms allow you to have a document notarized without leaving home. Services like Notarize, NotaryCam, and LegitScan connect you with a licensed notary via video call. The notary verifies your identity, watches you sign the document, and applies their digital seal.
Online notarization is fastest if your state permits it. Most states now allow remote notarization, though a few still require the notary and signer to be in the same physical location. Check your state's notary laws before booking. Fees for online notaries typically range from $25 to $50 per document, which is higher than in-person notarization but may be worth it if you need it done quickly or cannot travel.
What to Bring When You Get a Document Notarized
Bring a valid photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) and the unsigned document that needs notarization. The notary will ask you to sign the document in front of them. Some notaries may ask questions to confirm your identity or your understanding of what you are signing.
If you are having multiple documents notarized, bring all of them. Notaries typically charge per signature, not per document, so you may save money by doing several at once. Ask the notary about their fee before they begin work.
Cost of Notary Services
Notary fees vary widely depending on where you go and what type of document you are having notarized. In-person notaries at banks or UPS stores typically charge $5 to $15 per signature. Some banks offer notarization free to customers. Online notaries charge $25 to $50 per document. Loan signings and real estate closings may have higher fees because they involve multiple documents and take longer.
Ask about the fee before the notary begins work. Some notaries have a flat rate per document; others charge per signature. If you are having a long or complex document notarized, confirm whether the price covers the whole thing or whether you will be charged multiple times.
When You Might Need a Notary
Common reasons to have a document notarized include power of attorney forms, affidavits, real estate transactions, loan signings, and certain legal agreements. Some states require notarization for specific documents like wills or property deeds. Your attorney, lender, or the organization requesting the document will tell you if notarization is required.
If you are unsure whether a document needs to be notarized, ask the person or organization that asked you to provide it. They can tell you exactly what they need and whether a notary's seal is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I notarize a document myself?
No. A notary must be a third party who is not the signer and has no financial interest in the document. If you are the signer, you cannot notarize your own document. The whole purpose of notarization is to have an impartial witness confirm your identity and that you signed willingly.
Do I need an appointment to get a document notarized?
It depends on where you go. UPS stores and many banks accept walk-ins, though calling ahead is wise to confirm a notary is available. Online notary services usually let you book an appointment within hours. Law offices may require an appointment. Always call first to avoid a wasted trip.
What if I need a document notarized after business hours?
Online notary services operate outside standard business hours and can often complete notarization in the evening or on weekends. Some 24-hour UPS locations may have notaries available at odd hours, though this is rare. Check your state's rules on remote notarization before booking an online service.
Can a notary refuse to notarize a document?
Yes. A notary can refuse if they believe the signer is not who they claim to be, if the signer appears to be signing under duress, or if the document itself is illegal or fraudulent. Notaries are trained to spot red flags and have a legal duty to refuse suspicious requests.
How long does notarization take?
In-person notarization usually takes 5 to 10 minutes per document. Online notarization takes 10 to 20 minutes because the notary must verify your identity through video. Real estate closings with multiple documents can take an hour or more. Plan accordingly and arrive early if you are using an in-person notary.