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, though not every branch offers them and policies differ by state. Most branches will notarize documents for customers at no charge, but some locations charge a small fee for non-customers. The service is typically available during regular business hours, and you do not need an appointment at many branches, though calling ahead is safer.

The catch is that availability is inconsistent. Some branches have a notary on staff every day; others have one only on certain days or not at all. A few states have restrictions on what banks can notarize, and some Bank of America locations in those states may decline certain documents. Your best move is to call your local branch directly and ask whether they have a notary available and what documents they can handle.

Key Takeaways

  • Bank of America notary services are free for account holders at most branches, though non-customers may pay a fee.
  • Not every branch has a notary on staff, and availability varies by day and location—calling ahead prevents a wasted trip.
  • You will need to bring a valid government-issued ID and the unsigned document that needs notarizing.
  • Some states restrict what banks can notarize, so if your document is unusual, confirm the branch can handle it before you visit.

How to learn about your Bank of America branch has a notary

Start by calling the branch directly. Use the Bank of America branch locator on their website, find your nearest location, and call the number listed. Ask specifically whether they have a notary available and on what days. Do not rely on the website or app—branch staffing changes, and a notary may be out sick or on vacation on the day you plan to visit.

If your branch does not have a notary or cannot notarize your specific document, ask the staff for a referral to a nearby branch that can. Bank of America employees often know which locations in your area are best equipped to handle notary work. You can also search for independent notaries in your area as a backup option.

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. Bring the unsigned document itself; the notary cannot work with a copy or a digital version. If the document has multiple pages, bring all of them.

Some documents require you to sign in front of the notary, while others may already be signed. Ask the branch when you call whether you should sign before arriving or wait until you are there. Signing in the wrong order can invalidate the notarization, so clarifying this step saves time.

What documents Bank of America notaries typically handle

Bank of America notaries can notarize common documents like powers of attorney, affidavits, loan documents, and property-related paperwork. They can also notarize travel consent forms for minors, vehicle titles, and general declarations. However, they cannot notarize certain documents, such as wills in some states, documents requiring a certified copy, or papers that involve the bank itself.

State law controls what notaries can and cannot do. For example, some states prohibit notaries from notarizing wills or documents related to real estate transfers. If your document is unusual or specialized, describe it to the branch staff when you call so they can tell you whether it is something they can handle. Bringing an unusual document without checking first wastes the trip.

Cost and whether you need a Bank of America account

Bank of America account holders receive notary services free at most branches. Non-customers may be charged a fee, typically between $5 and $15 per document, though some branches decline to notarize for non-customers altogether. The fee structure is not uniform across all branches, so ask when you call.

Having a Bank of America account does not may provide free notary service everywhere—a few branches may still charge—but it improves your odds. If you do not have an account and your branch charges a fee, compare that cost to independent notaries in your area, who often charge similar amounts.

Timing and what to expect during the visit

The notarization itself takes only a few minutes once you are with the notary. However, you may wait in line, especially during busy times like lunch hours or the end of the business day. Arriving early in the morning or mid-afternoon typically means shorter waits. If the branch is very busy, the notary may ask you to come back at a quieter time.

The notary will verify your identity, watch you sign the document (if required), and then explore their official seal and signature. They will keep a record of the notarization in a journal, which is standard practice. The whole process from check-in to leaving usually takes 10 to 20 minutes, not counting wait time.

Alternatives if your branch cannot help

If Bank of America cannot notarize your document, look for an independent notary public in your area. Many UPS stores, FedEx locations, and shipping centers employ notaries. Some law offices, title companies, and real estate offices also offer notary services. Online notary services are available in many states, though they work differently and may not be accepted for all document types.

Your state's Secretary of State office maintains a list of commissioned notaries, which you can search online. Some states also have notary locator tools. If you need the notarization urgently, calling three or four nearby locations and asking about same-day availability is faster than searching online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a document notarized at Bank of America without an account?

Yes, but you may be charged a fee, typically $5 to $15 per document. Some branches decline to notarize for non-customers, so call ahead to confirm. Account holders usually receive the service free.

Do I need to make an appointment for notary services at Bank of America?

Most branches do not require an appointment, but calling ahead is wise because notary availability varies by day and location. Some branches have a notary only on certain days, and a notary may be unavailable due to illness or other reasons.

Can Bank of America notarize a will?

It depends on your state. Some states prohibit notaries from notarizing wills, while others allow it. Call your branch and describe the document; the staff can tell you whether they can notarize it under your state's law.

What if I sign the document before going to Bank of America?

Tell the notary that the document is already signed. Some documents must be signed in front of the notary, while others can be pre-signed. The notary will let you know if there is a problem, but calling the branch beforehand prevents confusion.

How long does notarization take?

The notarization itself takes a few minutes, but you may wait in line depending on how busy the branch is. Plan for 10 to 20 minutes total, not counting wait time. Arriving early in the morning usually means a shorter wait.