Bank of America offers notary services at most branches, but availability varies by location and you may need an account
Bank of America provides notary services through its branch network, but the service is not may provide at every location. Most full-service branches have at least one notary on staff during business hours, though some smaller branches or limited-service locations may not. If you have a Bank of America account, you can typically use the service free or at a reduced cost. Non-customers may be charged a fee, which varies by branch.
The fastest way to confirm whether your nearest branch has a notary is to call ahead. You can find your local branch phone number on Bank of America's website or by calling 1-800-432-1000. When you call, ask specifically whether they have a notary available and whether you need an appointment. Some branches take walk-ins, while others require you to schedule in advance, especially during busy times.
Key Takeaways
- Most Bank of America branches have notary services available during business hours, but not all locations offer this service.
- Account holders typically receive notary services free or at a lower cost than non-customers.
- You should call your branch in advance to confirm a notary is available and to ask whether you need an appointment.
- Bring a valid government-issued photo ID and the document that needs to be notarized when you visit.
- If your branch does not have a notary, you can search for other options through your state's notary directory or local title companies.
What documents Bank of America notaries can and cannot notarize
Bank of America notaries can notarize most common documents, including powers of attorney, affidavits, loan documents, and property-related paperwork. They can also notarize travel consent forms for minors and certain financial documents. However, they cannot notarize documents that are blank, already signed, or that they have reason to believe are fraudulent or being used for an illegal purpose.
Notaries also cannot notarize documents for themselves or immediate family members in most states, and they cannot notarize documents where the signer is not physically present. If your document falls into a category the notary cannot handle, they will tell you when you arrive, so it is worth calling ahead if you are unsure.
How to prepare for your notary appointment
Bring a valid government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The notary must verify your identity before notarizing anything. Bring the original document that needs to be notarized, not a copy. The document should be unsigned unless the notary has already reviewed it and confirmed it can be notarized in its current state.
Do not sign the document before you arrive at the branch. The notary must watch you sign it. If multiple pages need notarizing, bring all of them. Some notaries charge per signature rather than per document, so clarify the fee structure when you call to schedule.
Fees for Bank of America notary services
Bank of America account holders often receive notary services free of charge, though some branches charge a small fee per signature. Non-customers typically pay between $5 and $15 per signature, depending on the branch and the complexity of the document. Some branches may charge more for documents that require multiple notarizations or that are unusually lengthy.
Fees are not standardized across all branches, so call ahead to ask what your specific branch charges. If cost is a concern, you can also contact your state bar association, local title companies, or UPS stores in your area — many offer notary services at competitive rates.
What to do if your branch does not have a notary
If your nearest Bank of America branch does not have a notary on staff, you have several alternatives. Many UPS stores, FedEx locations, and Staples offer notary services for a fee. Your state's secretary of state office maintains a directory of notaries you can search by zip code or county. Title companies and real estate offices also commonly provide notary services, sometimes free if you are a customer.
If you need the document notarized urgently and cannot reach a notary in person, some states now allow remote notarization through video conference. Check your state's secretary of state website to see whether remote notarization is available where you live and which providers are authorized to perform it.
Hours and scheduling for Bank of America notary services
Notary availability follows your branch's regular business hours, which are typically Monday through Friday during daytime hours and Saturday mornings at many locations. Some branches have extended hours or Sunday service, but notary availability may be more limited during those times. Call your branch to confirm their hours and to ask whether the notary is available at specific times you plan to visit.
If you have a time-sensitive document, mention that when you call. Some branches will prioritize your appointment or hold a notary slot for you if you explain the urgency. However, do not assume a notary will be available without calling first — branches sometimes have notaries out on break or handling other duties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a Bank of America customer to use their notary service?
No, but non-customers typically pay a fee while account holders often receive the service free or at a reduced cost. Call your branch to ask about their fee structure for non-customers before you visit.
Can I notarize a document that is already partially signed?
No. The notary must watch you sign the document. If it is already signed, the notary cannot notarize it. Bring the unsigned original and sign it in front of the notary.
What if I cannot visit a branch in person?
Some states now allow remote notarization by video. Check your state's secretary of state website to see if this option is available. Otherwise, you will need to visit a notary in person or have someone else pick up the notarized document on your behalf if the notary allows it.
How long does notarization take?
The process usually takes 5 to 10 minutes per document, depending on how many signatures need notarizing and how busy the branch is. If you have multiple documents or a complex situation, allow extra time.
What if the notary refuses to notarize my document?
Notaries can refuse if they believe the document is fraudulent, if you cannot provide proper ID, or if the document falls outside what they are legally allowed to notarize. If this happens, ask the notary why they cannot proceed and whether another notary at the branch can help. If not, you will need to find a notary elsewhere.