Bank of America offers notary services at most branches, but availability depends on your location and whether you have an account

Bank of America provides notary services through its branch network. Most full-service branches have at least one notary on staff during business hours. However, not every location offers this service — smaller branches and some standalone offices may not have a notary available. The service is typically free or low-cost for account holders, though non-customers may pay a fee.

The catch is that you need to call ahead. Bank of America does not advertise notary availability online in a searchable way, and staffing varies by branch. A notary might be busy with other customers, on break, or unavailable on the day you walk in. Calling your local branch 24 hours before you need the service gives them time to confirm a notary will be there.

Key Takeaways

  • Most Bank of America branches have notary services available during regular business hours, but you must call ahead to confirm availability at your specific location.
  • Account holders typically receive notary services free or at a reduced cost, while non-customers may be charged a per-document fee.
  • You will need to bring a valid government-issued photo ID and the documents that require notarization.
  • If your nearest Bank of America branch does not offer notary services, UPS stores, FedEx locations, and independent notaries are common alternatives.

How to find a notary at your Bank of America branch

Start by calling the branch directly. Look up your nearest Bank of America location on their website or through Google Maps, then call the branch phone number. Ask specifically whether they have a notary available and what days and times work best. Many branches are busiest mid-morning and mid-afternoon, so early morning or late afternoon may be faster.

When you call, mention whether you are an account holder. This information affects both the fee and sometimes the priority given to your request. Some branches prioritize account holders during busy periods.

What you need to bring

Bring a valid government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The notary must verify your identity before notarizing any document. Bring the original documents that need notarization, not copies. Some documents require the notary to witness your signature in real time, so you cannot have signed them beforehand.

If you are unsure whether a document needs notarization or what the notary will require, contact the organization requesting the notarization — your bank, insurance company, court, or attorney — and ask what they need from the notary. Different institutions have different rules about what counts as a valid notarized signature.

Cost and account holder benefits

Bank of America account holders often receive notary services at no charge or for a small fee, typically under $5 per document. Non-customers usually pay a per-document fee that ranges from $5 to $15, depending on the branch. Some branches may charge more for complex documents or multiple signatures.

Fees are not standardized across all branches, so ask about the cost when you call. If the fee seems high, you can compare prices at other notaries in your area before committing.

When Bank of America is not an option

If your nearest Bank of America branch does not offer notary services or their hours do not work for you, several other places provide notaries. UPS stores and FedEx Office locations have notaries on staff at most locations, though availability still varies. Independent notaries advertise through online directories and often work by appointment, sometimes including evenings and weekends.

Some employers, law firms, and title companies also offer notary services to the public. If you need notarization for a real estate transaction, your title company or real estate agent can often handle it. If the document is for a bank or financial institution, that institution may have a notary available.

What the notary will and will not do

A notary verifies your identity, watches you sign the document, and stamps it with their official seal. They do not review the document for accuracy, give legal information, or determine whether you should sign it. If you have questions about what a document means or whether signing it is in your interest, you need a lawyer, not a notary.

The notary will refuse to notarize a document if you appear confused about what you are signing, if your ID does not match the name on the document, or if the document appears to be blank or incomplete. These refusals protect you from fraud and are not negotiable.

Timing and planning ahead

Notarization takes 5 to 15 minutes per document once the notary is available. If the branch is busy, you may wait longer. If you need notarization for a time-sensitive matter — a real estate closing, a court filing, or a loan process — call the branch at least two business days ahead and ask when they can fit you in. Some branches will hold a time slot for you if you ask.

If you are mailing a document to be notarized, Bank of America does not offer remote notarization through the mail. You must appear in person with your ID.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Non-customers can use the notary service at most branches, but you will likely pay a fee. Call ahead to confirm the branch offers notary services to non-customers and ask what the cost is.

Can I notarize a document I already signed?

No. The notary must watch you sign the document in their presence. If you have already signed it, most notaries will not notarize it. Bring the document unsigned and sign it in front of the notary.

What if I need notarization outside of business hours?

Bank of America branches are not open evenings or weekends at most locations. UPS stores, FedEx Office, and independent notaries often have extended hours. Search online for "notary near me" and filter by hours to find someone available when you need them.

Can Bank of America notarize documents for other countries?

Bank of America notaries can notarize documents, but some countries do not recognize U.S. notarization. If the document is for use outside the United States, contact the relevant foreign government office or embassy to ask what type of notarization they require. You may need an apostille instead of a standard notarization.

What if the notary at my branch is always busy?

If one branch is consistently unavailable, try a different Bank of America location nearby. You can also use an independent notary or a UPS store, which may have shorter wait times. Compare a few options in your area to find the fastest service.