When dealing with important documents that need legal validation, many people ask the question: does FedEx have a notary? The answer is not straightforward for every location, as notary services at FedEx are not guaranteed in every branch. However, understanding what FedEx offers, how to find notary services near you, and what alternatives are available can help make the notarization process much easier. Whether you’re sending legal forms, real estate documents, or power of attorney papers, it’s important to know what role FedEx can play in helping you get those documents notarized properly.
What Is a Notary and Why Is It Needed?
A notary public is an official appointed by the government to witness the signing of important documents, verify the identity of the signers, and help prevent fraud. Notarization is required in many cases involving legal contracts, wills, affidavits, deeds, and financial agreements. The notary serves as an impartial witness and ensures that everyone signing the document does so willingly and knowingly.
Common Documents That Require Notarization
- Real estate transactions
- Loan agreements
- Power of attorney forms
- Affidavits and sworn statements
- Medical authorization forms
- Wills and trusts (depending on the state)
Does FedEx Offer Notary Services?
FedEx itself does not officially promote notary services as a core offering. Unlike UPS, which clearly states that some of its stores provide access to notaries, FedEx locations typically focus on shipping, printing, and document handling. However, some FedEx Office stores may have partnerships or employees who are certified notaries, depending on local regulations and demand. This means that availability varies greatly depending on the location.
How to Check for Notary Services at FedEx
- Call the specific FedEx Office store ahead of your visit to ask if a notary public is available.
- Use FedEx’s store locator and contact the store directly.
- Ask if they can refer you to a nearby notary if they do not have one onsite.
Because not every FedEx location has a notary, it’s always best to confirm by phone or in person before planning your visit.
Alternatives to Notary Services at FedEx
If your local FedEx does not have a notary, there are other convenient places where you can get documents notarized. Many of these alternatives are just as accessible and may offer more consistent notary availability.
Where Else to Find a Notary Public
- UPS Stores: Many UPS stores have licensed notaries on staff.
- Banks and Credit Unions: Most offer free notary services to their customers.
- Libraries: Some public libraries offer notary services by appointment.
- Courthouses: Often have notaries available for public use.
- Online Notary Services: For remote notarization via video call, available in many states.
Online Notary Services as an Option
With the rise of digital convenience, online notary services have become increasingly popular. These services allow users to upload documents and complete the notarization process through a live video conference with a licensed notary. Many people now prefer this option due to its speed, availability, and simplicity.
Benefits of Online Notarization
- Available 24/7 in many cases
- No need to leave your home or office
- Secure digital copies provided instantly
- Accepted in most states for common documents
Online notarization is ideal for people who cannot travel or need documents notarized quickly. However, it’s still important to check your state laws to ensure online notarization is accepted for your specific document type.
Printing and Shipping Notarized Documents at FedEx
Even if your local FedEx does not have a notary public, it can still play a valuable role in the document process. FedEx Office provides services such as document printing, copying, and secure shipping. After getting your document notarized elsewhere, you can bring it to FedEx to make certified copies or send it to its final destination using overnight or priority shipping.
Services That Complement Notarization
- High-resolution document printing
- Secure document scanning and emailing
- Overnight and international shipping
- Binding and presentation preparation
FedEx Office is a reliable partner in managing your notarized documents, even if it does not perform the notarization itself. These services are especially helpful for professionals or legal offices needing fast and professional document handling.
Tips for Getting Documents Notarized Smoothly
Whether you go to a FedEx Office location, another physical location, or use an online notary service, preparation is key. Having the correct documents and identification on hand will speed up the process and prevent any issues.
What You Need to Bring
- A valid photo ID (such as a driver’s license or passport)
- The unsigned document (don’t sign it ahead of time)
- Any witnesses required (check if they must be present with you)
- Knowledge of what type of notarization is needed (acknowledgment, jurat, etc.)
Some notaries may also charge a small fee, so it’s a good idea to confirm the price beforehand.
While FedEx does not consistently offer notary services across all of its locations, some individual FedEx Office branches may have a notary public available. It is always best to call ahead and confirm. If a notary is not available at your nearest FedEx, there are several reliable alternatives, including banks, UPS Stores, public libraries, and even online notary platforms. Regardless of where you get your document notarized, FedEx remains a useful resource for printing, copying, and securely shipping your documents once the notarization is complete. Planning ahead and knowing your options can make the entire process fast, efficient, and stress-free.