You can usually find a notary the same day. The right choice depends on how fast you need it, whether you can travel, and what kind of document you're signing.
Option 1: Your bank or credit union
Many banks offer notary service to account holders, sometimes free. Call ahead: not every branch has a notary on staff every day, and some won't notarize certain documents, such as wills or real estate papers.
Option 2: Shipping and print stores
Many shipping and print shops have a notary on site. They're convenient for simple, single-signature documents. Call first to confirm a notary is working when you plan to go.
Option 3: A mobile notary
A mobile notary comes to your home, office, hospital, nursing home or coffee shop. It's the best option if you can't travel, have several signers, or need an evening or weekend appointment. Expect a travel fee on top of the state's per-signature fee.
Option 4: A remote online notary
In states that authorize remote online notarization (RON), you can meet a notary by live video from your phone or computer. You'll upload the document, verify your identity online, and sign electronically. Check that the receiving party accepts electronically notarized documents first.
Option 5: A loan signing agent
For a mortgage, refinance or home equity closing, your title or escrow company usually arranges a loan signing agent. If you're arranging one yourself, look for a notary who is a certified signing agent.
How to check a notary is legitimate
- Ask for their commission number and expiration date.
- Look them up on your state's notary search, usually run by the Secretary of State.
- Confirm they carry an official seal or stamp.
- For loan signings, ask whether they're background-screened and carry errors and omissions (E&O) insurance.
Search notaries by ZIP code
MyNotaryAgents lists notaries across the United States, including mobile, online and loan signing agents. Find a notary near you, or browse by city: Houston, Dallas, Austin, Miami, Los Angeles, New York and Chicago.