Notarizing documents is often a crucial step in legal and personal matters. Whether you’re signing a contract, finalizing a will, or dealing with important financial papers, having your signature witnessed and verified by a notary public adds a layer of security and authenticity. It helps prevent fraud and ensures that your documents are legally sound, after all – but does the post office have a notary for that?
When you need something notarized, you might think of such familiar places to handle documents with ease, without the need for locomotion or bureaucracy. In this article, we’ll answer that exact question and explore a range of convenient options for finding the notary services you need.
Don’t miss: How to sign a notary form in 8 simple steps
So, does the post office have a notary?
Let’s address the question directly: does the post office have a notary? The answer is no. The United States Postal Service (USPS) does not offer notary public service as part of its standard operations, unfortunately.
The USPS is a federal agency with a specific mission: to handle mail delivery, process packages, and provide related postal services. Their focus is on the efficient and reliable movement of mail and parcels across the country, not on providing legal services like notarization.
Furthermore, notary publics are commissioned and regulated by individual states, not the federal government. This means that each state has its own set of rules and requirements for notaries. The USPS, as a federal entity, wouldn’t be able to comply with the varying regulations of all 50 states.
It’s understandable why some people might assume the post office offers notary services, though. They handle important documents, provide certified mail (offering proof of mailing and delivery), and are often seen as a trusted institution.
However, certified mail doesn’t offer the same legal assurances as notarization. This involves verifying the identity of the signer, witnessing their signature, and ensuring they are signing the document freely and willingly.
It’s a process that requires specific training, adherence to state laws, and the ability to exercise judgment – something that falls outside the scope of the USPS’s core mission.
A note on potential exceptions
While the USPS itself doesn’t offer notary services, some individual post office locations might have partnered with private companies that offer notary services within the same building or close to it. These partnerships are not common, but they do exist.
If you’re wondering if a particular post office near you might offer notary services through a third-party provider, it’s always a good idea to call them in advance and inquire about their available services. Keep in mind that these third-party notary services will likely come with a fee.
Traditional alternatives for notary services
Now that we’ve established that the post office doesn’t offer notary services, let’s explore some readily available alternatives where you can get your documents notarized.
Banks and credit unions
Many banks and credit unions offer notary services to their customers as a convenience. This can be a great option, especially if you’re already a customer of that institution. Some banks offer notary services for free to their account holders, while others might charge a nominal fee.
The best way to find out if your bank or credit union offers notary services is to check their website, call the branch directly, or inquire in person at the customer service desk.
Keep in mind that not all branches may have a notary public on staff, and availability might vary depending on the time of day or day of the week.
Shipping stores
Shipping stores like UPS and FedEx have become increasingly popular as one-stop shops for document services, including notarization.
They often have notaries public on staff at most locations, making it convenient to get your documents notarized while also taking care of your shipping needs. They also claim to help you make any necessary copies on the fly, which is an added convenience.
Shipping stores typically charge a fee for notary services, which can vary depending on the location and the number of documents needing notarization. It’s always a good idea to check their website or call ahead to confirm the fees and availability of a notary at your preferred location.
AAA offices
If you’re a member of AAA (American Automobile Association), you might be pleasantly surprised to learn that many AAA offices offer notary services as a member benefit.
This can be a convenient and cost-effective option for AAA members. In fact, notarization services at AAA offices are typically offered at a discounted rate or even for free to members.
Check your AAA membership benefits or contact your local AAA office to inquire about their notary services.
Other options
Beyond banks, shipping stores, and AAA offices, here are a few other places where you might find notary services:
- Libraries: some public libraries offer free or low-cost notary services to their patrons;
- Courthouses: many courthouses have notary publics on staff, often available to assist with court-related documents;
- City halls: some city halls or municipal offices offer notary services to residents.
- Law offices: most law firms employ notaries public, primarily for their own clients’ needs, but some might offer services to the public as well;
- Check cashing businesses: some venues also provide notary services for a fee;
- Real estate offices: if you’re involved in a real estate transaction, the real estate agent or title company might have a notary public at their disposal.
Mobile notaries: a better and more convenient solution
While the traditional options mentioned above offer places to find notary services, they often have limitations. You might have to work around their business hours, deal with potential wait times, or travel to a specific location, which can be inconvenient, especially if you have a busy schedule or limited mobility.
Here’s something that might open your mind: mobile notaries can solve all that. These professionals are commissioned and certified just like traditional notaries, but, as the name suggests, they are not tied to a fixed location. Instead of working in an office, they travel to you, providing notary services at your convenience – whether it’s your home, office, hospital room, or any other agreed-upon location!
By the way, their services are legitimate, too. Mobile notaries are fully licensed and regulated by the state, just like notaries who work in traditional settings. It means they undergo the same background checks, training, and certification processes – and they’re held to the same high standards of professionalism and ethical conduct.
Advantages of mobile notaries over traditional notaries
The main appeal of mobile notarization lies in its convenience and flexibility. You get to choose the time and place that works best for you, eliminating the need to travel to a notary’s office or work around their limited hours.
Mobile notaries often offer appointments outside traditional business hours, including evenings and weekends (or 24/7 coverage as we do), allowing you to save time. This is especially beneficial for busy professionals, individuals with extra-tight deadlines, and those involved in time-sensitive transactions.
It’s ideal for people with mobility challenges, limited transportation options, or those who find it difficult to leave their homes or workplaces. Also, with a mobile notary, you enjoy one-on-one attention in a more relaxed and private setting. If you have questions about the documents you’re signing or need assistance completing the forms correctly, the notary will be there for you.
While mobile notaries typically charge a travel fee in addition to their standard notary fee, the added convenience and flexibility often outweigh the extra cost, especially if you value your time and appreciate personalized service.
So, does the post office have a notary? Not usually – but you have plenty of other convenient options, like us!
If you’re looking for a hassle-free and personalized notary experience, consider using a mobile notary. More importantly, consider working alongside our team!
You see, Mobile Notary Orlando offers 24/7 mobile notary services throughout Orange, Seminole, Osceola, and Brevard counties. We handle everything from real estate closings and loan signings to wills and powers of attorney. So contact us today to schedule your convenient and reliable mobile notary appointment!
