Bank of America offers notary services at most branches, but availability and cost vary by location
Bank of America provides notary services through its branch network, but the service is not uniform across all locations. Some branches offer it free to account holders, some charge a fee regardless of account status, and some do not offer it at all. Before you visit a branch, you need to call ahead or check online to confirm whether that specific location has a notary available and what they charge.
The inconsistency exists because Bank of America does not operate a centralized notary program. Each branch manager decides whether to staff a notary and what to charge. This means two Bank of America branches in the same city can have completely different policies.
Key Takeaways
- Bank of America notary availability depends on the individual branch, not on a company-wide policy, so you must contact your specific branch before visiting.
- Account holders may receive free or discounted notary services at some branches, while non-account holders typically pay a fee.
- You can call your local branch directly or use the Bank of America branch locator to find contact information and ask about notary availability.
- If your branch does not offer notary services, you can find alternatives through your state notary association, UPS stores, or local law offices.
How to learn about your Bank of America branch has a notary
Start by calling the branch where you want the notary service. Ask specifically whether they have a notary on staff and whether they charge a fee. Write down the name of the person you speak with and what they tell you, because policies can change and staff turnover is common.
You can find your branch phone number through the Bank of America website branch locator tool. Enter your zip code or address, and the results will show phone numbers for nearby branches. Call during business hours, ideally mid-morning or mid-afternoon when branch staff are less busy.
If you cannot reach anyone by phone, visit the branch in person during business hours and ask at the customer service desk. Bring the document you need notarized so the notary can see what they are working with — some notaries will refuse certain documents or may need to ask questions about what you are signing.
What documents Bank of America notaries will and will not notarize
Bank of America notaries can notarize most common documents: powers of attorney, affidavits, loan documents, travel consent forms for minors, and signature verification on contracts. They cannot notarize documents they themselves prepared, documents where they have a financial interest, or documents they believe are being signed under duress or fraud.
Some notaries will refuse to notarize certain legal documents if they are unsure about the document's purpose or legality. For example, a notary might hesitate on an unusual power of attorney or a document written in a language they do not read. If the notary refuses, ask why — sometimes it is a legitimate concern about the document, and sometimes it is overcaution on their part.
Bring a government-issued photo ID to your appointment. The notary must verify your identity before notarizing anything. If you do not have a photo ID, most notaries will not proceed.
Cost of Bank of America notary services
Fees vary widely. Some branches charge nothing for account holders and $5 to $10 per signature for non-account holders. Other branches charge everyone $10 to $15 per document. A few branches do not charge at all. The only way to know what your branch charges is to ask when you call.
If the fee seems high, compare it to alternatives in your area. UPS stores, FedEx Office locations, and independent notaries often charge $5 to $15 per signature. Some state bar associations and legal aid offices offer free or low-cost notary services to low-income residents.
Timing and what to bring to your appointment
Most Bank of America branches can notarize a document the same day you visit, but do not assume walk-in service is available. Call ahead to ask whether you need an appointment or whether you can drop in. Some branches require an appointment, especially if the notary is part-time or shared with other duties.
Bring the unsigned document, your government-issued photo ID, and any other ID the notary requests. If someone else is signing the document, they must be present in person — notaries cannot notarize signatures they do not witness. If the document requires multiple signatures from different people, everyone must be there at the same time.
Bring a pen. Some notaries provide one, but it is safer to bring your own. The notary will watch you sign and then add their seal and signature to the document.
What to do if your Bank of America branch does not offer notary services
If your branch does not have a notary, ask whether they can refer you to another Bank of America location nearby that does. Some branches will make that call for you.
If no nearby Bank of America branch offers the service, check your state's notary association website. Most states maintain a searchable directory of notaries by county or zip code. You can also search "notary public near me" and filter by distance and hours.
UPS stores and FedEx Office locations offer notary services in most areas. Call ahead to confirm availability and cost. Law offices, title companies, and real estate agencies often have notaries on staff and may notarize documents for a small fee or free if you are a client.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be a Bank of America customer to use their notary service?
No, but account holders often receive free or discounted service while non-account holders pay a fee. Policies vary by branch, so call ahead to ask what your specific branch charges.
Can Bank of America notarize a document I did not bring with me?
No. The notary must see the document and watch you sign it. You cannot notarize a blank document or have someone else sign on your behalf.
How long does a notary appointment take?
Most notarizations take 5 to 15 minutes, depending on how many signatures are needed and whether the notary has questions about the document. If you are notarizing multiple documents, budget more time.
What if I need a notary on a weekend or after hours?
Bank of America branches are not open on weekends, and most close by 6 p.m. on weekdays. Look for a UPS store or FedEx Office location near you — many are open weekends and evenings and offer notary services.
Can a Bank of America notary notarize a document for a power of attorney?
Yes, powers of attorney are among the most common documents notaries handle. Bring your government ID and the unsigned power of attorney document. The notary will watch you sign it and add their seal.