Why Your Bank Might Say 'No

Claudia Mitchell-McLeod • April 22, 2025

“I’m sorry—we can’t notarize that.”

It’s a phrase many people are surprised to hear at their local bank. You walk in with a document in hand, expecting a quick signature and stamp—maybe even for free—only to be turned away. But why does this happen? And what can you do when it does?

The truth is, while many banks offer free notary services to their customers, they often can’t notarize certain documents due to liability concerns, staffing limitations, or internal policies. Some documents are simply too complex or carry too much risk for them to handle.

Others turn to shipping centers like UPS, assuming they can notarize anything—but they have limitations too. Certain legal forms, estate documents, and Power of Attorney paperwork may fall outside their permitted scope.

As a mobile notary, I provide an accessible, flexible, and professional solution. I come to you—where and when it’s convenient. Whether it’s your home, workplace, hospital room, or a quiet local café, I’m available weekdays, evenings, weekends, and holidays to help ensure your important documents are completed with care.

Documents Often Declined by Banks & Shipping Centers:

  • Power of Attorney forms (especially for estate planning)
  • Wills and living trusts (commonly referred out due to legal complexity)
  • I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification
  • Documents involving third-party liability or emotional sensitivity
  • Guardianship and custody-related paperwork

These are the moments when people often feel stuck—and that’s where I can help. I bring professionalism, patience, and compassion to every signing.

Just recently, I visited several local banks and credit unions in my area. Not only did they confirm there are many documents they cannot notarize, but they were happy to accept my business cards and agreed to share my information with customers in need of services they can’t fulfill.

Whether you’re assisting a loved one with end-of-life planning, finalizing an adoption, or managing personal legal paperwork, I’m here to support you with a calm, caring presence—and the convenience you deserve.

And if the document you need notarized happens to be your marriage license—congratulations! While you probably weren’t planning to take it to the bank, you can bring it to Notary Near Me Florida.


As a commissioned notary and an ordained minister who also serves as a wedding officiant, I can both notarize your marriage license and lead your wedding ceremony with warmth, purpose, and meaning—helping you begin your journey toward a marriage grounded in love and filled with Joy for a Lifetime.



  • Serving the Tampa Bay area
  • Mobile appointments available: weekdays, evenings, weekends & holidays
  • Call or text (813) 239-4117 to schedule your notary service
  • So, the next time your bank says no, say yes to Notary Near Me Florida—your mobile notary.


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