Notaries are needed when we want to sign a document, write a will, some bank documents, name power of attorney, business documents, affidavits, trusts, healthcare-related forms, etc. Various states across the U.S have different rules governing documents or transactions that can be notarized. Notaries mainly check and verify the identities of the parties involved in the document signature. They review the documents to ensure it is in line. Let us know more detail about ‘Notary Service’.
Notary Service
People who render notary services are public officials of integrity serving as impartial witnesses when important documents are signed. They are appointed by the government and are present in many credit unions and banks to serve customers. The service of a notary are:
- Verification of legal documents
- Verification of the identity of participants and witnesses
- Ensuring there are no forced parties
- Prevent fraud
- Some states allow notaries to administer oaths during the marriage.
Notary services are rendered by the following:
- Financial bodies (banks, credit unions, etc)
- Real Estate Firms
- Delivery stores (UPS stores, FedEx Offices, etc.)
- American Automobile Association (AAA)
- Online Notary
Notary Services at Financial Institutions
1. Bank of America
Bank of America offers free notary service to its customers. Before you request for notary service, you must have your ID on you and the documents you wish to notarize. All documents to be signed should not be signed or dated before the appointment date. You also have to ensure that all signees are legal citizens with acceptable IDs.
Appointment for a notary service at the Bank of America takes about 30 minutes. Note that not all branches of the bank offer a notary service. So, it is important to call your bank.
2. Chase Bank
Account-holders at Chase Bank do not need to pay for notary services. Different branches run the rotary service at different times, days of the week, etc. Some branches do not have a notary service at all. Place a call to your local branch to confirm. Once you have confirmed your appointment, you will need to go with your government-issued ID, with others needed to sign the document. Your document will not be notarized if any party is not present.
3. U.S. Bank
Not all U.S. Banks have a notary service. Confirm from your local branch to verify their notarization service status. When going for your appointment, you are to go along with a valid ID
Notary Services at Delivery Stores
1. UPS Store Notary
When going to a UPS Store for notarization, you will need a valid ID issued by the government. Also, be familiar with the specific requirement of your state regarding notarization and act accordingly. Some states require additional witnesses when notarizing some documents. If this applies to you, there will be a need to go with them as stated.
Once your documents are notarized at UPS stores, the store makes provision for as many copies as you might need and ship them to a chosen location. Notarization at UPS stores costs about $15.
2. FedEx Office
FedEx provides online notaries to customers. This is done in collaboration with Notarize, an online platform that provides notary services. You can submit your documents through your computer and mobile phone and connect with a notary public through a video call. Identities are verified through a 3-factor authentication which also prevents fraud.
The cost of notarization at FedEx is $25 per document. If your document happens to require more than one notary seal (which is rear), it costs $10. Online notarization is completely legal.
Notary Service at AAA offices
AAA only has personal notary services. Business-related transactions or documents are not allowed. When you go to an AAA office with your documents, you are to come along with your valid ID and all signees must also be present with their IDs. Only selected AAA offices to have notary service. Ensure to make inquiries to know the nearest one to you.
Notary services are given to both members and non-members of the club. Members get discount prices. The price per signature for AAA members is about $10, depending on the location. Non-members pay $15 per signature. This also varies depending on the state or location.
Conclusion
It is important to know the type of document you want to notarize and the nearest place that has the notarization services for that document. Also, ensure your documents are in order and that all concerned parties are present with their IDs. With these, you will get attended to. In addition, online notaries are legal and this option can be explored.
FAQs
- Does the FedEx office have physical notary service at their locations?
No. Only online notary service is available at FedEx. Although, their staff may assist you before and during the online process.
- Can notaries give legal advice?
No. Notaries can be fined for any legal advice. They are only impartial witnesses.
