Yes, Wells Fargo offers free notary services to account holders at most branches which you can find out using their useful branch locator tool on their website. Here’s everything you need to know about getting your documents notarized at Wells Fargo—plus easier alternatives.
Getting Started: What Is Notarization and Why Do You Need It?
Have you ever signed an important paper and wondered if that signature would hold up if someone questioned it? That’s exactly the problem notarization solves. Think of a notary public as an official witness—someone the government trusts to watch you sign documents and confirm you are who you say you are.
When a notary stamps and signs your document, they’re basically saying: “I checked this person’s ID, watched them sign, and they knew what they were signing.” This stamp makes your document official and much harder for anyone to dispute later.
You’ll typically need notarization for things like buying or selling a house, signing loan papers, creating a power of attorney (which lets someone make decisions for you), or handling certain legal agreements. Banks deal with these kinds of documents every day, which is why many of them—including Wells Fargo—offer notary services right in their branches.
The Short Answer: Yes, Wells Fargo Notarizes Documents for Free (If You’re a Customer)
Here’s the good news: if you have a checking or savings account with Wells Fargo, you can get documents notarized at no charge. This free service is one of the perks of being an account holder.
But there are a few important things to know before you head to your local branch:
- Not every Wells Fargo branch has a notary on staff. Some smaller locations might not offer this service, so calling ahead is smart.
- You need to visit during regular banking hours. Most branches keep typical business hours—weekdays and some Saturday mornings.
- Non-customers may need to pay a small fee. If you don’t have a Wells Fargo account, you might still get help, but expect to pay a nominal charge (usually under $15).
- Some documents cannot be notarized at the bank. Wells Fargo generally won’t notarize wills, certain property deeds, or documents that require a witness to be provided by you.
How to Find a Wells Fargo Notary Near You
Finding a Wells Fargo branch that offers notary services takes just a few minutes. Here’s how to do it:
- Visit the Wells Fargo website and look for the “ATMs & Locations” tab at the top of the page.
- Enter your city, state, or ZIP code to see a list of nearby branches.
- Call the branch directly to confirm they have a notary available and ask about their hours.
- Schedule an appointment if needed. While some branches take walk-ins, booking ahead ensures someone will be ready to help you.
You can also use the Wells Fargo mobile app to find locations and schedule appointments. Just look for the “Make an Appointment” feature and select notary services as your reason for visiting.
What to Bring to Your Notary Appointment
Showing up prepared will make your visit quick and painless. Here’s your checklist:
- A valid government-issued photo ID. A driver’s license or passport works best. The notary needs to verify you are who you claim to be.
- The complete document you need notarized. Bring every page, including any that don’t require signatures. The notary needs to see the whole document.
- Do NOT sign the document beforehand. This is crucial. The notary must watch you sign in person. If you’ve already signed, they cannot notarize it.
If other people need to sign the same document, everyone must be present at the appointment with their own valid ID. The notary can’t notarize someone else’s signature if they’re not there.
What Documents Can (and Can’t) Be Notarized at Wells Fargo
Documents Wells Fargo Typically Notarizes
- Power of attorney forms (including Wells Fargo’s own version)
- Trust documents and agreements
- Mortgage and loan paperwork
- Affidavits (sworn written statements)
- Contracts and business agreements
- Vehicle title transfers
Documents Wells Fargo Usually Won’t Notarize
- Wills and codicils — Many banks have policies against notarizing these because of liability concerns
- Certain real estate deeds — Property transfers may require specialized handling
- Birth certificates or immigration documents — These require different types of certification
- Documents needing independent witnesses — If your document requires a non-bank witness, you’ll need to bring one
When in doubt, call your branch ahead of time and describe your document. They’ll tell you whether they can help or if you need to look elsewhere.
How Wells Fargo Compares to Other Banks
Wells Fargo isn’t the only bank that offers free notary services to customers. Here’s how the major banks stack up:
- Bank of America: Free for account holders, but not available at all branches
- Chase: Free for customers, non-customers typically can’t use the service
- U.S. Bank: Free for account holders, fees for non-customers range from $2 to $10
- PNC Bank: Free for customers at participating locations
The common thread? If you’re already a customer at one of these banks, you’ll likely get free notary services. If you’re not a customer, you might be turned away or charged a fee. Wells Fargo is generally one of the more accommodating options, as some branches will serve non-customers for a small charge.
What If the Bank Isn’t Convenient? Try Online Notarization
Here’s something that’s changed a lot in recent years: you don’t always have to visit a bank or notary office anymore. Remote Online Notarization (RON) has become legal in over 45 states, and it’s changing how people get documents notarized.
With online notarization, you connect with a real, licensed notary through a video call on your computer or phone. You upload your document, show your ID on camera, and sign electronically while the notary watches. The whole process takes about 15 minutes from your couch, your office, or wherever you happen to be.
Why People Are Choosing Online Notarization
- Available 24/7 — No more rushing to the bank before they close or taking time off work
- Works from anywhere — Perfect for people in rural areas, travelers, or anyone with mobility challenges
- Fast and efficient — No driving, parking, or waiting in line
- Legally valid — Documents notarized online are accepted the same as those done in person
According to industry reports, online notarization use has grown dramatically since 2020. Real estate professionals, legal teams, and everyday people have embraced it for everything from mortgage closings to powers of attorney.
Need a Document Notarized Right Now? BlueNotary Can Help
If getting to a Wells Fargo branch during business hours doesn’t work for your schedule—or if you simply want a faster option—BlueNotary offers secure online notarization that works on your timeline.
With BlueNotary, you can connect with a licensed notary public in minutes, not hours. The platform is simple to use: upload your document, verify your identity, and complete your notarization over a live video session. It’s legal, it’s secure, and you can do it from your phone, tablet, or computer.
Ready to get your document notarized? Visit BlueNotary.us to get started in less than five minutes.
Other Places to Get Documents Notarized
If Wells Fargo isn’t convenient and online notarization isn’t right for your situation, you have plenty of other options:
- Credit unions — Many offer free notary services to their members
- UPS Store locations — Most have notaries available, usually for fees between $5 and $25
- Public libraries — Some libraries offer free or low-cost notary services
- Law offices — Attorneys often have notaries on staff
Mobile notaries — These professionals come to you, though they typically charge travel fees
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Wells Fargo account to use their notary services?
Having an account gets you free service. Without one, some branches will still help you for a small fee, while others may not be able to assist non-customers at all. Call ahead to check your local branch’s policy.
How long does notarization at Wells Fargo take?
The actual notarization process is quick—usually 5 to 15 minutes once you’re with the notary. However, you might wait if the branch is busy or if no notary is immediately available. Scheduling an appointment helps avoid waiting.
Can Wells Fargo notarize multiple documents at once?
Yes, but if you have many documents, let them know when scheduling. For account holders, multiple notarizations are typically still free, though some branches may have limits on how many they’ll handle in one visit.
What if I already signed my document?
Unfortunately, the notary cannot help you. The whole point of notarization is having a witness watch you sign. You’ll need to get a fresh, unsigned copy of your document and start over.
Is online notarization accepted everywhere?
Online notarization is now legal in over 45 states and accepted nationwide for most document types. However, some recipients (like certain government agencies or foreign entities) may still require traditional notarization. Check with whoever needs your document to be sure.
The Bottom Line
Wells Fargo does notarize documents for free if you’re an account holder—making it a solid choice for customers who need an occasional document notarized during banking hours. Just remember to call ahead, bring proper ID, and never sign before you arrive.
That said, the world of notarization has expanded beyond bank branches. Online notarization services like BlueNotary now offer a faster, more flexible alternative that works around your schedule instead of the other way around. Whether you choose your local Wells Fargo branch or an online platform, getting a document notarized has never been more accessible.
Need a document notarized today? Try BlueNotary for secure, convenient online notarization anytime.
