Bank of America Does Not Offer Free Notary Services
Bank of America does not notarize documents for free. The bank charges a fee for notary services, typically between $10 and $15 per signature, though the exact amount varies by branch and location. Some branches may charge more for documents that require multiple notarizations or for services performed outside normal business hours.
If you have a Bank of America account, you may receive a small discount compared to non-customers, but the service is not free. You will need to call your local branch ahead of time to confirm they offer notary services, as not every location has a notary on staff. Availability also depends on staffing and the branch's current workload.
Key Takeaways
- Bank of America charges $10 to $15 per signature for notary services; the exact fee varies by branch location.
- Not every Bank of America branch has a notary available, so you should call ahead to confirm your branch offers the service.
- You will need to bring a valid government-issued photo ID and the unsigned document that needs notarization.
- Many free or low-cost notary alternatives exist, including credit unions, UPS stores, and some public libraries.
What You Need to Bring to Bank of America
To have a document notarized at Bank of America, bring your original unsigned document and a valid government-issued photo ID. The notary will not notarize a document that is already signed, so make sure the signature line is blank when you arrive. If the document requires multiple signatures or notarizations, you will be charged per signature.
Some documents have specific notarization requirements — for example, a power of attorney or affidavit may need to be notarized in a particular way. Bring the original document, not a copy. The notary will examine it and may ask you questions to confirm you understand what you are signing.
How to learn about Your Branch Offers Notary Services
Call your local Bank of America branch directly and ask whether they have a notary available. You can find the phone number on the Bank of America website by entering your zip code or address. When you call, ask about their hours and whether you need to make an appointment or can walk in.
Some branches are busier than others, and a notary may not be available when ready. If your branch does not offer notary services, the staff can often direct you to another nearby branch that does. Alternatively, they may be able to refer you to other notary services in your area.
Lower-Cost and Free Notary Alternatives
Several places offer notary services for less than Bank of America's fee or at no cost. Many credit unions notarize documents for free if you are a member. Public libraries in some cities and counties offer free notary services to residents, though availability varies widely by location. Call your local library to ask whether they have a notary on staff.
UPS stores and FedEx Office locations typically charge $5 to $15 per signature, which is comparable to or lower than Bank of America. Some title companies and real estate offices will notarize documents for free if the notarization is related to a transaction they are handling. Online notary services are also available in many states, though they charge a fee and require you to verify your identity electronically.
When Bank of America Notary Services Make Sense
Using Bank of America for notarization makes sense if you are already at the branch for another reason and the fee is acceptable to you. If you have an account there and the branch is convenient, the $10 to $15 charge may be worth the time saved compared to traveling to another location. However, if you do not have an account or if a free option is available nearby, it is worth checking those first.
For documents that require notarization as part of a larger banking transaction — such as a loan or account change — ask your Bank of America representative whether the notarization is included in the service. Some transactions include notarization at no extra charge.
What Happens During the Notarization Process
The notary will ask you to sign the document in front of them. They will examine your ID to confirm your identity and may ask you to state your name and confirm that you are signing the document of your own free will. The notary will then stamp and sign the document, adding their notary seal and the date. This process usually takes five to ten minutes per signature.
The notary cannot advise you on whether the document is correct or what it means. They are only confirming that you signed it in their presence and that you provided valid identification. If you have questions about the document itself, ask before you go to the notary or consult with an attorney.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an appointment for notary services at Bank of America?
It depends on the branch. Some locations accept walk-ins, while others require an appointment. Call your branch ahead of time to find out their policy and to confirm a notary is available when you plan to visit.
Can Bank of America notarize a document that is already signed?
No. The notary must witness your signature, so the document must be unsigned when you bring it in. If it is already signed, you will need to obtain an unsigned copy or have the document redrawn.
What if my Bank of America branch does not have a notary?
Ask the staff to direct you to another nearby branch that does offer notary services. You can also call other branches in your area or search for free notary services at your local library or credit union.
Is the notary fee the same at every Bank of America branch?
No. Fees vary by branch and location, typically ranging from $10 to $15 per signature. Call your specific branch to confirm their exact fee before you visit.
Can I get a notarization for free somewhere else?
Yes. Many credit unions offer free notary services to members, and some public libraries provide free notarization. UPS stores and FedEx Office locations usually charge $5 to $15, which may be less than Bank of America depending on your branch.