Bank of America offers notary services, but they are not free for most customers
Bank of America does provide notary services at many of its branches, but the cost depends on whether you have an account with them and what type of account it is. If you are a Bank of America customer with a checking or savings account, notarization is typically free. If you do not have an account, or if you have only a credit card, you will usually pay a fee — typically $10 per signature, though this can vary by location and the complexity of the document.
The availability of notary services also varies by branch. Not every Bank of America location offers notarization, and hours may be limited. Some branches have notaries on staff during regular business hours, while others may require an appointment or may not offer the service at all. You should contact your specific branch before visiting to confirm they have a notary available.
Key Takeaways
- Bank of America notary services are free for customers with a checking or savings account, but non-customers typically pay around $10 per signature.
- Not all Bank of America branches offer notary services, so you need to call ahead to confirm your branch has one available.
- You will need to bring a valid government-issued ID and the document that needs to be notarized.
- Many other options exist for free or low-cost notarization, including credit unions, libraries, and online notary services.
How to learn about your Bank of America branch has a notary
The fastest way to check is to call your local Bank of America branch directly and ask whether they have a notary available. You can find the phone number by visiting the Bank of America website, entering your zip code, and selecting your branch. When you call, ask about their hours for notary services — some branches only offer it during certain times of day or by appointment.
If your branch does not have a notary, the representative can sometimes refer you to a nearby branch that does. You can also visit the branch in person during business hours and ask a teller, though calling first saves you a trip.
What you need to bring to get a document notarized
Bring a valid government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The notary will check your identity before notarizing anything. You will also need the original document that requires notarization. Photocopies cannot be notarized, and the notary will not notarize a blank document or one you have not yet signed.
If you are unsure whether your document needs notarization or what type of notarization is required, bring any instructions or letters that came with the document. Some documents require a standard notarization, while others may need an acknowledgment or a jurat — the notary can tell you which one applies.
When Bank of America notary services may not work for you
If you need notarization outside of business hours — evenings, weekends, or early mornings — Bank of America branches will not help. If your branch does not offer notary services and nearby branches are inconvenient, you may waste time traveling. If you need multiple documents notarized quickly, the branch may not have enough time to handle all of them in one visit.
Bank of America also cannot notarize certain types of documents, such as powers of attorney in some states or documents that require a notary public licensed in a specific state. If your document has special requirements, confirm with the branch before you go.
Free and low-cost notary alternatives
Many credit unions offer free notary services to their members, often with more flexible hours than banks. Public libraries in many cities provide free notarization or charge only $1 to $5 per signature. Some employers offer free notary services to employees through their HR department.
Online notary services have become common and typically cost $25 to $50 per document. These services use video conferencing to connect you with a notary public, and the notarized document is returned to you digitally. This option works well if you need notarization outside business hours or cannot travel to a physical location.
UPS stores and FedEx Office locations often have notaries on staff and charge $10 to $15 per signature. Availability varies by location, so call ahead. Some law offices will notarize documents for a small fee if you are not a client, though this is less common.
How to confirm the cost before you visit
When you call your Bank of America branch, ask directly: "What is the cost of notarization for a non-customer?" or "Is notarization free for account holders?" This prevents confusion at the branch. If the branch charges a fee, ask whether they accept cash or card, and whether the fee applies per signature or per document — these details matter if you have multiple pages to notarize.
If the cost seems high, compare it to nearby credit unions or libraries before you go. A few phone calls can save you money and time, especially if you have several documents to notarize.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an appointment for Bank of America notary services?
Some branches require an appointment, while others handle notarizations on a walk-in basis during business hours. Call your branch to ask. If they do require an appointment, they can usually schedule you within a day or two.
Can Bank of America notarize a power of attorney?
Bank of America can notarize many powers of attorney, but requirements vary by state. Some states require specific language or a particular type of notarization. Bring the document or any instructions with it when you call to confirm your branch can handle it.
What if I need a document notarized but do not have a government ID?
A notary cannot proceed without a valid government-issued photo ID. If you do not have one, you will need to obtain a state ID or passport first. This is a legal requirement, not a Bank of America policy.
Can I get a document notarized over the phone or by mail?
Bank of America does not notarize documents remotely. You must appear in person with your ID and the original document. Online notary services do offer remote notarization if that is an option for your situation.
How long does notarization take at Bank of America?
Most notarizations take 5 to 10 minutes. If the branch is busy, you may wait longer. Calling ahead or arriving during slower times — typically mid-morning on weekdays — can speed up the process.