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 varies. If you have a Bank of America checking or savings account, you may receive free notarization at your home branch — but this is not may provide at every location, and policies differ by branch. Non-customers typically pay a fee, usually between $10 and $15 per signature, though some branches charge more.
The real catch is availability. Not every Bank of America branch offers notary services, and hours are often limited to business days during regular banking hours. If you need a notary outside those windows or at a location without the service, you will need to look elsewhere.
Key Takeaways
- Bank of America customers should call their home branch directly to confirm whether notary services are free and whether a notary is available that day.
- Non-customers can use Bank of America notary services but will pay a fee, typically $10 to $15 per signature.
- Not all Bank of America branches offer notary services, so you may need to travel to a different location or use an alternative provider.
- Notary hours at Bank of America branches are limited to business hours, usually Monday through Friday, and may require an appointment.
How to learn about your Bank of America branch offers notary services
The only reliable way to know whether your branch has a notary is to call them directly. Bank of America does not publish a complete list of which branches offer the service, so calling ahead saves a wasted trip. Ask for the notary department or a teller, and confirm both that the service is available and what the fee is for your situation (customer or non-customer).
You can find your nearest branch and its phone number on the Bank of America website or by calling their main customer service line. When you call, have your account number ready if you are a customer, since some branches may waive the fee only for account holders in good standing.
What you need to bring to a Bank of America notary appointment
Bring a valid government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The notary will verify your identity before notarizing any document. You will also need the document itself, unsigned, since the notary must watch you sign it.
If you are having someone else sign the document (a power of attorney, for example), that person must also be present with their own photo ID. The notary cannot notarize a signature that is not made in front of them. Bring multiple copies if you need the same document notarized more than once, since each signature requires a separate notarization.
When Bank of America notary services may not work for you
If your branch does not offer notary services, or if you cannot reach a notary during business hours, you have other options. Many UPS stores, FedEx locations, and Staples branches have notaries on staff, often with more flexible hours than banks. Some charge a flat fee per signature; others charge by the page.
If you need a notary outside regular business hours or on weekends, search for "mobile notary" or "24-hour notary" in your area. Mobile notaries will come to your home or office, but they charge a travel fee on top of the per-signature cost. For straightforward documents, this can be more expensive than a branch location, but it may be worth it if time is tight.
The difference between Bank of America notary and other providers
Bank of America notaries are employees of the bank and follow the same standards as any other notary public — they verify your identity, watch you sign, and explore their seal. There is no difference in the legal validity of a Bank of America notarization versus one from a UPS store or an independent notary.
The main advantage of using Bank of America is convenience if you are already a customer and your branch offers the service free. The main disadvantage is limited availability and hours. If your branch does not offer notary services or you need service outside business hours, an independent notary or retail location may be faster and more flexible, even if it costs a few dollars more.
How much Bank of America notary services cost
For Bank of America customers, the service is often free at your home branch, though this varies by location and account type. Some branches may charge even account holders a small fee, so confirm when you call.
Non-customers typically pay $10 to $15 per signature. Some branches charge per page instead, which can be higher if the document is long. A few branches may charge additional fees for travel or for notarizing documents outside the United States. Ask about the exact fee structure when you call, since prices are not standardized across all locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a Bank of America notary without an appointment?
Some branches accept walk-ins, but many require an appointment, especially if the notary is busy. Call ahead to ask whether your branch takes walk-ins or if you need to schedule a time. Even if walk-ins are accepted, you may wait, so an appointment is usually faster.
What if I need a notary on a weekend or after hours?
Bank of America branches are closed on weekends and evenings, so you will need to use a different provider. UPS stores, FedEx locations, and Staples often have notaries available on weekends and some evenings. Mobile notaries also work outside standard business hours, though they charge a travel fee.
Do I have to be a Bank of America customer to use their notary?
No, non-customers can use Bank of America notary services, but you will pay a fee. Bring a valid photo ID and the unsigned document. The fee is typically $10 to $15 per signature, though it varies by branch.
Will Bank of America notarize a document I signed before coming in?
No. A notary must watch you sign the document in front of them. If you have already signed it, the notarization is not valid. Bring the document unsigned and be prepared to sign it at the notary's desk.
What if my Bank of America branch does not offer notary services?
Call other Bank of America branches nearby to see if any offer the service. If none do, use a UPS store, FedEx, Staples, or an independent notary public. You can search for notaries in your area online or ask your local courthouse for a list of certified notaries.