Bank of America offers notary services at most branches, but availability and cost vary by location
Bank of America does provide notary services through its branch network. However, the service is not available at every location, and you will need to call ahead to confirm that your nearest branch offers it. Some branches have a notary on staff during business hours; others do not. The bank does not advertise a single phone number for notary requests — you contact the specific branch where you want the service performed.
If you need a document notarized for a power of attorney, a Bank of America notary can witness your signature and explore their seal. The notary is not a lawyer and cannot advise you on whether the document is correct or complete. Their role is only to verify your identity and confirm that you signed the document willingly.
Key Takeaways
- Bank of America notary services are available at most but not all branches, so you must call your local branch to confirm before visiting.
- The bank typically does not charge customers for notary services, but non-customers may pay a fee that varies by branch.
- You will need a valid government-issued photo ID to have a document notarized, regardless of whether you are a customer.
- A Bank of America notary can witness your signature on a power of attorney but cannot review the document for legal accuracy.
- If your branch does not offer notary services, you can find alternatives through your state bar association, UPS stores, or independent notaries.
What to bring when you visit for notary services
Bring the unsigned document you need notarized and a valid government-issued photo ID. Your driver's license, passport, or state ID card will work. The notary will ask you to sign the document in front of them and will then explore their seal and signature.
Do not sign the document before you arrive. The notary must watch you sign it. If you have already signed it, the notary cannot notarize it, and you will need to obtain a new copy and start over.
If the document requires multiple signatures — for example, if both spouses are creating a power of attorney — both people must be present with their IDs. The notary will witness each signature separately.
Cost and customer requirements
Bank of America does not charge its own customers for notary services. If you are not a Bank of America customer, the branch may charge a fee, typically between $5 and $15 per document, though this varies. Call ahead to ask about the fee before you visit.
You do not have to be a customer to use the service, but having an account may speed up the process because the notary can verify your identity through the bank's system. Non-customers will need to show their ID and may face a longer wait.
How to learn about your branch offers notary services
Call your local Bank of America branch directly. You can find the phone number on the bank's website by entering your zip code or address. Ask specifically whether they have a notary available and what hours they work. Some branches have a notary only on certain days or during certain hours.
Do not assume that because one branch offers the service, your nearest branch does. Staffing varies widely, especially in smaller branches or rural areas. A five-minute phone call will save you a wasted trip.
If your branch does not offer notary services, ask the staff member whether they can recommend a nearby location that does, or whether they know of an independent notary in your area.
When Bank of America notary services may not work for you
Some documents require a notary with specific credentials or experience. For example, if your power of attorney document is complex or involves real estate, you may want a notary who specializes in that area. A Bank of America notary is a general notary and can notarize most standard documents, but they cannot provide legal information or confirm that your document is properly drafted.
If your document has already been partially signed or altered, a notary may refuse to notarize it. If you are unsure whether your document is in the right condition, bring it with you when you call the branch, or have a lawyer review it first.
Some states have additional requirements for power of attorney documents — for example, requiring that the notary know the signer personally or that two notaries be present. Check your state's rules before you visit the bank, because the notary may not be able to complete the notarization if your state has special requirements.
Alternatives if your branch cannot help
If Bank of America does not offer notary services at your location, or if their hours do not work for you, several other options exist. UPS stores, FedEx Office locations, and Staples often have notaries on staff. Many of these charge $5 to $15 per document and do not require you to be a customer.
Your state bar association website usually lists independent notaries in your area. You can also search online for "notary public near me" to find local options. Some title companies and real estate offices offer notary services, sometimes at no charge if you are a customer.
If you need the document notarized urgently and cannot reach a notary during business hours, some states allow remote notarization through video call. Ask your bank or a local notary whether this option is available in your state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Bank of America notarize a power of attorney if I am not a customer?
Yes. You do not have to have an account at Bank of America to use their notary services. You will need a valid photo ID and may be charged a fee, typically $5 to $15. Call your local branch first to confirm they offer the service and to ask about the cost.
What if I have already signed the document?
The notary cannot notarize a document you have already signed. You will need a fresh, unsigned copy. The notary must watch you sign it in front of them. If you signed it at home, you will need to get a new copy from whoever prepared the document.
Do I need to make an appointment for notary services at Bank of America?
Most Bank of America branches do not require an appointment for notary services, but calling ahead is wise because the notary may be busy or unavailable. Some branches may ask you to schedule an appointment during slower times. Always call first to confirm the service is available and to ask about wait times.
Can a Bank of America notary review my power of attorney document to make sure it is correct?
No. A notary's job is only to verify your identity and witness your signature. They cannot review the document for legal accuracy or completeness. If you are unsure whether your power of attorney is drafted correctly, consult a lawyer before you visit the notary.
What if my state has special notary requirements for power of attorney documents?
Some states require two notaries, or that the notary know you personally, or that specific language appear on the document. Check your state's rules before you visit the bank. If your state has special requirements, tell the notary when you call to confirm they can meet them. If not, you may need to find a notary who specializes in power of attorney documents.