Mobile Notary vs Bank Notary: What You Should Know

Notarization Is Not One-Size-Fits-All

If you’ve ever walked into your bank expecting to get a document notarized only to be turned away, you’re not alone. What used to be a common courtesy is now more complicated—banks are tightening their policies, especially when it comes to sensitive documents like wills, trusts, and powers of attorney.

That’s where mobile notaries come in. We offer flexibility, availability, and expertise—without the red tape. In this blog, we’ll dive into the key differences between a mobile notary vs. bank notary, why these changes are happening, and how to make sure your documents are handled the right way.

Why Are Banks Becoming More Restrictive?

In recent years, many banks have adopted more limited notary policies. While you may still be able to notarize basic forms or affidavits, banks are now:

• Refusing to notarize wills, trusts, and powers of attorney

• Declining documents related to legal or estate matters

• Only notarizing documents if you are an account holder

• Limiting notary availability to business hours or specific locations

Why? Liability. Banks don’t want to be held responsible for the content or legal implications of these documents—especially ones that could be contested later.

Translation: It’s not personal, it’s policy.

What Banks Will Notarize (Usually)

Each bank is different, but typically, they’ll still notarize:

• Basic affidavits

• Identity verification forms

• Banking documents (e.g., signature cards)

• Some general forms for customers only

But even that is becoming less consistent. It’s not uncommon for customers to be told there is no notary on-site, or to come back later when one is available.

What a Mobile Notary Can Do That a Bank Can't

This is where mobile notaries shine. Unlike banks, mobile notaries are:

• Available outside of standard business hours

• Able to travel to your home, office, hospital, or elder care facility

• Willing to notarize more sensitive documents like estate planning forms

• Focused solely on notarization and customer service—not banking operations

When it comes to notarizing power of attorney in New York or getting that last-minute will notarized, a mobile notary is often your best (and only) option.

Common Documents Mobile Notaries Handle

Here’s a short list of documents mobile notaries are often called in to notarize:

• Wills and trusts

• Power of attorney

• Healthcare proxies

• Real estate closings

• Loan documents

• Adoption paperwork

• Apostille preparation

• School or travel forms

• DMV or vehicle sales forms

Many of these are exactly the types of documents banks are backing away from.

Real Life Example: When a Bank Said No

A recent client needed to sign paperwork for the sale of a property out of state. Naturally, she went to her local bank—expecting a quick, routine notarization. But they turned her away, saying they couldn't notarize the document due to its nature.

Frustrated, she told the person handling the sale, “If you want this done, you’ll have to find me a notary—because no one around here will touch it.” That’s where I came in.

I was hired by the out-of-state party to help facilitate the sale. I met her at her farm late in the evening, just as she was finishing up for the night. We got everything signed and notarized—without the stress, delays, or limitations that often come with relying on a bank.

That’s the real benefit of mobile notary services: we show up when and where you need us.

Mobile Notary = Peace of Mind

With so many rules and restrictions at banks, hiring a mobile notary means:

• No waiting in lines or making multiple trips

• No surprises about what can or can’t be notarized

• No limitations on who you’re helping—whether it’s your parents, your clients, or yourself

More than convenience, a mobile notary gives you peace of mind that your documents are handled professionally, correctly, and on your timeline.

What to Look For When Hiring a Mobile Notary

Before hiring a mobile notary, consider the following:

• Are they commissioned in your state?

• Do they specialize in the type of documents you need?

• Are they insured or bonded?

• Do they have positive reviews?

• Are they experienced with real estate or estate planning documents?

(Hint: At Alisha’s Mobile Notary Service, we check every box.)

So...Bank Notary or Mobile Notary?

If you're just getting a quick form notarized and your bank has availability, it may still work for you. But if you're dealing with sensitive legal, financial, or personal documents, a mobile notary is almost always the better choice.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Need a Notary Who Comes to You?

I’m Alisha, owner of Alisha’s Mobile Notary Service, and I specialize in notarizing the documents banks won’t touch—from wills and POAs to real estate signings and apostilles. Whether you need me at your home, office, or even the hospital, I bring the notary to you.

Let’s make notarization stress-free, convenient, and done right the first time.

Book your appointment at here
Or email me at alisha@alishasmns.com