Bank of America Notary Services: What You Can Get

Bank of America offers notary services at most of its branches, but availability and cost vary by location. Some branches provide notarization free to account holders, while others charge a fee — typically $5 to $15 per signature. Non-account holders may pay more or find that certain branches do not offer the service at all. The fastest way to know what your local branch offers is to call ahead rather than walk in.

Not every Bank of America location has a notary on staff. Smaller branches and those in rural areas are less likely to have one available. Even branches that do offer notary services may have limited hours — a notary might work only during certain days or times, and you may need an appointment. If you need a notary for a power of attorney document, calling your branch first saves a wasted trip.

Key Takeaways

  • Bank of America notary services are free or low-cost for account holders at most branches, but not all locations offer them.
  • You must call your local branch directly to confirm whether a notary is available, what the fee is, and whether you need an appointment.
  • Non-account holders may be charged more or turned away, depending on the branch's policy.
  • If your branch does not have a notary, other options include UPS stores, FedEx locations, and independent notaries in your area.
  • For power of attorney documents, bring your original unsigned document, a valid photo ID, and any other identification the notary requests.

How to Find a Notary at Your Bank of America Branch

Start by calling the branch where you have your account. Ask whether they have a notary available and whether the service is free for account holders. If they do not have one on staff, ask if they can refer you to another nearby Bank of America location or recommend a local notary.

When you call, also ask whether you need an appointment or can walk in. Some branches schedule notary appointments in advance, especially if the notary works part-time. If an appointment is required, book it right away — availability can be limited, particularly on weekends or near the end of the month when many people need documents notarized.

Have your documents ready before you call. Know the name of the document you need notarized (such as a power of attorney), how many pages it is, and how many signatures need to be notarized. This information helps the notary estimate how long the appointment will take.

What to Bring When You Visit

Bring your original unsigned document. A notary must see the document in person and watch you sign it — they cannot notarize a copy or a document you signed before the appointment. If you have already signed the document, the notary cannot proceed.

Bring a valid photo ID issued by a government agency, such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The notary must verify your identity before notarizing your signature. If you do not have a photo ID, ask the notary in advance what other forms of identification they will accept.

Bring any other documents the notary requests. For a power of attorney, some notaries ask to see proof of your address, such as a recent utility bill or bank statement. Ask when you call whether anything beyond your ID and the document itself is needed.

Cost and Account Holder Status

Bank of America account holders often receive free notary services, but this is not may provide at every branch. Some branches charge a small fee even for account holders, while others waive it entirely. The only way to know the cost at your branch is to ask when you call.

If you are not a Bank of America account holder, expect to pay a fee. The amount varies by branch and location, but typically ranges from $5 to $15 per signature. Some branches may refuse to notarize documents for non-account holders altogether, so confirm this before you visit.

Fees are usually paid in cash at the time of the appointment. Ask whether your branch accepts card payment or requires cash.

When Bank of America Is Not an Option

If your local Bank of America branch does not have a notary or cannot fit you in, other places offer notary services. UPS stores and FedEx locations have notaries on staff in most areas and do not require you to be a customer. Costs are similar to Bank of America — usually $5 to $15 per signature — and many offer walk-in appointments.

Independent notaries in your area may also be available. Search online for "notary public near me" or check your state's notary directory if one exists. Some notaries work from home or small offices and may charge less than retail locations, though availability can be unpredictable.

If you need the document notarized quickly, call ahead to confirm hours and whether an appointment is needed. Many notaries work by appointment only, and some have limited availability on weekends.

Special Considerations for Power of Attorney Documents

A notary's job is to verify your identity and confirm that you signed the document of your own free will — not to review whether the document is correct or complete. Before you go to the notary, make sure your power of attorney document is finished and ready to sign. Any changes after notarization will require a new notarization.

Some states have specific rules about how power of attorney documents must be notarized. A few states require a notary to use a seal or stamp in a particular way, and some require the notary to sign and date the document in addition to the person creating the power of attorney. Ask your notary whether your state has any special requirements, or check your state's attorney general website before your appointment.

If you are creating a power of attorney, consider having the notary notarize multiple copies at once. This saves time and money if you need to give copies to your bank, doctor, or other institutions. Ask the notary whether they can notarize multiple copies in a single appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Bank of America notary on the same day I call?

It depends on the branch and how busy they are. Some branches can fit you in the same day, while others require an appointment scheduled days in advance. Call as early in the day as possible to increase your chances of a same-day appointment. If your branch cannot help you, ask for a referral to another location or a local notary.

What if I do not have a photo ID?

A notary must verify your identity, and a government-issued photo ID is the standard way to do this. If you do not have one, call the notary in advance and ask what other documents they will accept. Some notaries may accept a combination of documents, such as a birth certificate plus a utility bill, but this varies by notary and state law.

Can a notary notarize a document I already signed?

No. A notary must watch you sign the document in their presence. If you have already signed it, the notary cannot proceed. You will need to get a blank copy and sign it in front of the notary.

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

Some branches accept walk-ins, while others require appointments. Call your branch to ask. If appointments are required, book one as soon as possible, especially if you need the document notarized within a few days.

How much does a Bank of America notary cost for non-account holders?

Fees for non-account holders typically range from $5 to $15 per signature, but some branches may charge more or decline to notarize for non-customers. Call ahead to confirm the cost and whether your branch will notarize for you.