Does FedEx Notarize In 2024? (All You Need To Know)
Notarizing important documents is a common need – research shows 75% of Americans will utilize notary services at some point. With life milestones like real estate transactions, new businesses, and marriages, efficient and affordable options for notarization are in demand.
So you may be wondering: does FedEx offer notarization services nowadays?
While FedEx no longer provides in-person notary services, I‘ll explain everything you need to know about their online “FedEx Office Online Notary” platform – discussing availability, costs, eligibility requirements and more.
A Brief History: Why FedEx Stopped In-Person Notary Services
First, let’s understand why FedEx discontinued walk-in notary services back in 2008. According to court documents from an Illinois Supreme Court ruling in 2008, a FedEx employee notarized a document containing a forged signature.
FedEx faced lawsuits due to this negligence. To limit liability, they made the decision to eliminate in-person notarization across all US locations.
FedEx‘s Solution: Online Notarization Powered by Notarize
In March 2022, FedEx announced a partnership with leading digital notary platform Notarize to offer FedEx Office Online Notary solutions. This collaboration brought back notary capabilities – but in a more scalable, digital format.
The strategic move aligns with growing market demand for online legal services and is projected to serve millions of households needing notarization. According to Notarize CEO Pat Kinsel, this partnership helps "prepare businesses big and small for success in a more digital future”.
How Online Notary Works: The FedEx Advantage
FedEx’s 24/7 online notary services offer four key advantages:
Convenience: No need to schedule appointments, take off work, or visit a physical office
Security: Identity verification safeguards ensure authenticity
Speed: Entire notarization process takes ~15 minutes
Savings: More affordable than alternatives (see cost comparisons ahead)
The platform allows seamless uploading of documents via computer, smartphone or tablet, then connects you to a licensed notary public via video chat to verify ID and witness e-signatures.
What To Expect: Step-By-Step Overview
If you decide to use FedEx’s solution for your notarization needs, below are the four steps to expect:
- Upload documents from any device
- Prove identity with government-issued photo ID
- Connect via video chat to licensed notary
- Download/share notarized documents
| Key Requirements | Details |
|---|---|
| Valid Photo ID | Driver‘s license, passport, military ID |
| Device capabilities | Audio/video and internet connection |
| Social Security # | For identity verification |
It‘s as simple as that! Most documents requiring notary seals are completed within a 15 minute session.
Any Restrictions? Documents You Can‘t Get Notarized
While convenient, be aware FedEx’s online notary services do have some limitations. Certain documents are ineligible like:
- Non-US intended documents
- Select official certificates
- Wills, codicils, trusts
- I-9 Employment Eligibility Verifications
- Documents where the notary benefits
If you are unsure whether your document qualifies, FedEx recommends checking with your legal advisor first.
Cost Comparison: FedEx Online Notary vs Alternatives
| Provider | Cost | Time | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|
| FedEx Online Notary | $25 per document + $10 per add’l seal | 15 minutes | ★★★★☆ |
| UPS Store | $10 per signature | Varies | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Independent notary | $2-$15 per signature | Varies | ★☆☆☆☆ |
Given turnaround speed and accessible online format, FedEx digital solutions offer a superior experience than alternatives when you consider cost, time and effort.
Conclusion: Efficient, Low-Cost Notarization From Home
In summary – yes, FedEx does provide notarization services through their FedEx Office Online Notary platform, thanks to a 2022 collaboration with Notarize.
Their secure, legal video chat solution makes completing notarizations easy and convenient 24/7. For most American documents, it offers an affordable and efficient way to get your notary needs handled completely online within minutes.
So if you suddenly find yourself needing a document notarization, at just $25 per seals, FedEx’s latest offering presents a strong value worth exploring.
