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 may provide at every location. Most full-service branches have at least one notary on staff during business hours. However, you will need to call ahead to confirm that a notary is available on the day you plan to visit, since staffing changes and some smaller branches may not have one present.

The cost of notarization at Bank of America is typically free for account holders, though some branches charge a small fee per signature for non-customers. The exact fee structure varies by branch and state, so calling ahead will also tell you whether you will pay anything. Many branches waive the fee entirely for customers with certain account types.

Bank of America does not offer notary services remotely or by mail. You must visit a physical branch in person with your documents and a valid government-issued ID.

Key Takeaways

  • Most Bank of America branches have notaries available during regular business hours, but you should call your local branch first to confirm one is working that day.
  • Notary services are typically free for Bank of America account holders and may cost a small fee for non-customers, depending on the branch and state.
  • You must visit a branch in person with your documents and a valid government-issued ID; remote or mail notarization is not offered.
  • If your nearest branch does not have a notary available, you can search for other notaries through your state's notary directory or ask your bank for a referral.

How to find a notary at your Bank of America branch

Start by calling your local Bank of America branch directly. Ask to speak with someone who can confirm whether a notary is on staff and what hours they work. Many branches list notary availability on their website or in their branch information, but a phone call is the fastest way to get a same-day answer.

You can also use the Bank of America branch locator on their website to find the nearest location to you, then call that branch. If the branch you prefer does not have a notary, ask the staff whether they can refer you to another nearby branch that does.

What documents you need to bring

Bring the document that needs to be notarized and a valid government-issued ID. Your ID must be current and show your photograph — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card will work. The notary will verify your identity before notarizing the document.

If you are unsure whether your document requires notarization or what type of notarization it needs, contact the person or organization requesting the document. Some documents need a straightforward notarization (the notary witnesses your signature), while others may require an acknowledgment or a jurat (a sworn statement). The notary can advise you on the spot, but knowing in advance saves time.

Cost and fees at Bank of America

Bank of America account holders typically receive notary services at no cost. Non-customers may be charged a fee per signature, which usually ranges from a few dollars to around ten dollars per signature, though this varies by branch and state. Some branches charge a flat fee per document instead.

Call ahead to ask about the fee structure at your branch. If the cost is higher than you expected, you can compare it to other notaries in your area — many pharmacies, UPS stores, and independent notaries charge similar or lower fees.

When Bank of America notary services may not work for you

If your nearest branch does not have a notary on staff, or if their hours do not match yours, you have other options. UPS stores, FedEx locations, and CVS pharmacies often have notaries available, sometimes with extended hours. Some of these services can be faster than waiting for a Bank of America appointment.

If you need a notary for a time-sensitive document, check whether your state allows remote notarization. Some states now permit notaries to notarize documents over video call, which can be faster than visiting a branch in person. Your state's secretary of state office or notary board can tell you whether this option is available where you live.

Alternatives to Bank of America notary services

If Bank of America is not convenient, several other places offer notary services. UPS stores have notaries at most locations and often stay open later than banks. CVS and Walgreens pharmacies offer notarization at many locations. FedEx Office also provides notary services at select locations.

Independent notaries in your area may offer mobile services, meaning they come to your home or office. You can find them through your state's notary directory or by searching online for "notary public near me." Independent notaries often charge more per signature than retail locations, but the convenience may be worth it if you need the document notarized outside normal business hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be a Bank of America customer to use their notary services?

No, but non-customers typically pay a fee while account holders do not. The fee varies by branch and state. Call your local branch to ask what they charge for non-customers before you visit.

Can Bank of America notarize documents remotely or by mail?

No. Bank of America requires you to visit a branch in person with your documents and a valid ID. If you need remote notarization, check whether your state allows it and contact a notary that offers that service.

What if the notary at my Bank of America branch is not available when I need them?

Call ahead to confirm the notary's schedule. If they are not available, ask the branch staff for a referral to another nearby location, or search for other notaries through UPS stores, CVS, or your state's notary directory.

How long does a Bank of America notarization take?

A straightforward notarization usually takes five to ten minutes. However, if the branch is busy, you may wait longer. Calling ahead and asking when they are least busy can help you avoid a long wait.

What if my document needs a specific type of notarization?

Tell the notary what type of notarization you need when you arrive. The notary will advise you on whether they can perform it. If you are unsure, contact the person or organization requesting the document before you visit the branch.