Where to Get Free Notary Services Near You
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You do not always have to pay for a notarization. Free notary services are available at banks, credit unions, AAA offices, employers, libraries, and military bases across the country. The catch is that most of these options require you to be a customer, member, or employee, and you need to visit them during business hours.
Banks and Credit Unions
Most major banks and nearly all credit unions offer free notarization to account holders.
| Bank | Free for Customers? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bank of America | Yes | Call branch to confirm notary availability |
| Chase | Yes | Not all branches have a notary on staff |
| Wells Fargo | Yes | Available at most branches |
| Citibank | Yes | Schedule in advance |
| U.S. Bank | Yes | Walk-ins accepted if notary available |
| PNC | Yes | Call ahead |
| TD Bank | Yes | Known for flexible hours, walk-ins OK |
| Capital One | Yes (branches only) | Not available at Capital One Cafes |
Credit unions are often a better option than banks because they tend to have shorter wait times and more flexible scheduling. Nearly all credit unions offer free notary services to members.
Before you go, call the branch to confirm a notary is on duty. Not every branch has one every day. Non-customers are typically charged $5 to $10 per document or turned away entirely.
AAA (Automobile Association)
AAA offers free notary services to members at most branch locations nationwide. If you already have AAA for roadside assistance, this is a useful perk that most people do not know about.
- Free for AAA members
- Usually up to 5 documents per visit
- Walk-in or by appointment depending on location
- Call your local branch to confirm availability
Your Employer
Many large companies have a notary on staff, usually in the HR or legal department. This is a free service for employees. Industries most likely to have in-house notaries include financial services, law firms, government agencies, large corporations, hospitals, and universities.
Ask your HR department or office manager. Even if the company does not advertise notary services, an employee with an active notary commission may be willing to notarize documents during business hours.
Public Libraries
Some public libraries offer free or low-cost notary services as a community service. Availability varies widely. Libraries in larger cities and county systems are more likely to offer it. Call your local library’s reference desk or check their website before visiting.
Military Bases (JAG Office)
Active-duty military, reservists, retirees, and their dependents can get free notary services at the Judge Advocate General (JAG) office on any military installation. Bring a valid military ID. JAG offices handle high volumes and are experienced with powers of attorney, wills, and other military-specific documents.
County Clerk and Government Offices
Some county clerk offices, city halls, and other government buildings provide free or low-cost notary services. This varies by jurisdiction. Call your county clerk’s office to ask before making a trip.
When Free Options Will Not Work
- Free options all require you to come to them. If you cannot travel (hospital, care facility, jail), a mobile notary will run $50 to $150+ including travel.
- Banks and libraries keep business hours. Anything outside those hours requires a paid notary.
- Banks and AAA limit documents per visit, usually 5 to 10. A real estate closing with 100+ pages needs a signing agent, not a bank teller.
- RON platforms charge $25 to $50 per session. No free version exists for remote notarization.
Low-Cost Alternatives
If free options are not available, shipping and office stores offer notarization at $5 to $15 per signature with no appointment needed at most locations:
- UPS Store: $5-15 per signature, walk-ins accepted at most locations
- FedEx Office: $5-10 per document, call ahead (not all locations offer notary services)
- Independent pack-and-ship stores: $5-15 per signature, varies by location
What to Bring
- Government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, or state ID)
- Unsigned documents. Do not sign until the notary tells you to.
- All signers present. Everyone who needs to sign must appear in person.
- Any required witnesses. Some documents need additional witnesses; check beforehand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the post office offer free notary services?
No. The U.S. Postal Service does not offer notary services at any location. However, many UPS Store locations offer low-cost notarization ($5-15 per signature).
Can I get notarized at a bank if I am not a customer?
Most banks restrict free notary services to account holders. Non-customers may be charged $5-10 per document or turned away. Some branches make exceptions, but do not count on it. Call ahead to ask.
How many documents can I get notarized for free?
It varies by location. Banks typically handle 5 to 10 documents per visit. AAA usually limits to 5. Libraries may handle fewer. If you have a large batch, call ahead to confirm or split your visits.
Can I get a power of attorney notarized for free?
Yes. A power of attorney is a standard document that any commissioned notary can handle. Banks, AAA, and employer notaries can notarize POAs just like any other document.
Is AAA notary service really free?
Yes, for AAA members. Most branch offices have a notary available during business hours. Non-members cannot use this service. If you already pay for AAA membership, the notary service is included at no extra cost.
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