Does USPS Notarize Documents In 2024? (Try These Better Options Instead)
Notarizing documents is an essential step for major life events and business deals. By having a notary public witness and verify your signature, it reduces fraud and builds trust in agreements.
According to a 2022 survey by the National Notary Association, 68% of Americans have had a document notarized at some point in their lives. Top documents notarized include real estate transactional (49%), estate planning (wills, trusts, powers of attorney) (42%), and affidavits (24%).
With notarization being so ubiquitous in daily life, it‘s no wonder that busy people wish they could access notary services at convenient places they frequent, like the post office. Who hasn‘t rushed from the bank to USPS right after signing loan documents? It seems like USPS would be a natural fit for notarization services.
However, I‘m here to report that unfortunately, USPS does NOT offer any document notarization in 2024. But don‘t worry – you have plenty of other great options! Here‘s an in-depth look at why USPS doesn‘t notarize, your alternative choices, and expert advice on getting documents notarized with minimal hassle.
Why USPS Doesn‘t Notarize Documents
Notaries public are commissioned on a state-by-state basis. Each U.S. state has its own laws and regulations governing notaries. Some states require training courses and exams, extensive background checks, and application fees for new notaries. States also set maximum fees notaries can charge for services.
In contrast, USPS is a federal agency under the executive branch. The federal government and individual state governments simply aren‘t set up to coordinate notary services together. While USPS locations would be convenient one-stop shops for mailing and notarization, the legal authority for notaries lies with the states.
| State | Maximum Notary Fee |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $5 |
| California | $15 |
| Florida | $10 |
| New York | $2 |
Some common reasons people think USPS notarizes:
Notaries often rent office spaces in the same buildings as post offices for convenience. Customers incorrectly assume they are USPS employees.
Mobile notaries market services as "USPS notary", misleading customers. They are private notaries without USPS affiliation.
Scammers claim USPS notarization to sound official. Always verify a notary‘s credentials.
While notaries near post offices provide a valued service, no notaries actually work for the United States Postal Service.
Convenient Alternatives For Document Notarization
Luckily, there are many convenient places to get documents notarized other than USPS. Here are some of my top recommendations as a notary expert:
Banks – Major banks like Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Chase have notaries at many branch locations. Call ahead to make an appointment. There may be fees of $5-15 per signature.
UPS Stores – With over 3,900 locations, UPS Store is one of the largest national chains offering notary services. Pricing depends on your state‘s laws. Ranges from $2-$10 per signature.
Accounting Firms – Most tax preparation offices employ at least one notary public on staff. Useful for financial documents. Call to ask rates and arrange a quick notarization appointment.
Law Firms – Law firms always have notaries available to verify legal documents. Rates vary greatly based on firm size and location. Ask if they notarize for non-clients.
Online Notaries – Sites like Notarize.com let you upload documents and use video chat to verify ID with an online notary 24/7. Fees are usually $25 per signature. Ensure the site is legitimate before using.
Local Notary Office – Search Google Maps for notary public offices near you. These dedicated notaries focus entirely on providing fast, affordable notarizations.
Expert Tips on Streamlining Your Document Notarization Experience
As an expert notary public for over 10 years, I recommend these tips for a fast and easy notarization process:
Call ahead to verify availability of a notary and get pricing. Walk-ins may result in long waits.
Bring 2 forms of ID – one primary ID like a driver‘s license and one secondary like a credit card. Makes notarization smooth and quick.
Know exactly what signatures need notarizing before your appointment. Don‘t waste time reviewing documents.
Bring your own black pen for signing. Some offices may charge for pen use.
For real estate documents, schedule notarization closing at the title company. They will handle notarizing all documents in one spot.
For online notarization, test your webcam, mic, and upload speeds to avoid delays.
Notarizing doesn‘t have to be a time-consuming hassle, even without access to USPS notaries. With proper preparation and research on notary options in your area, you can get documents notarized quickly and move on to more important things.
