Bank of America branches offer notary services, but availability depends on your location and whether you have an account there

Most Bank of America branches have at least one notary public on staff during business hours. The service is typically free for account holders and costs a small fee—usually $5 to $15 per signature—for non-customers. However, not every branch keeps a notary available every day, and some smaller locations may not offer the service at all. Before you go, call your local branch directly to confirm a notary is present and ask about their current hours.

Bank of America does not advertise notary availability online in a searchable directory, so a phone call is your fastest way to learn about your branch can help. When you call, have your document ready and be prepared to describe what needs to be notarized—some notaries will decline certain documents (like powers of attorney or affidavits) depending on their training or the bank's policy.

Key Takeaways

  • Call your local Bank of America branch directly to confirm a notary is available; the service is not listed online.
  • Account holders typically receive notary services at no charge, while non-customers usually pay $5 to $15 per signature.
  • Bring a valid government-issued photo ID and the unsigned document that needs to be notarized.
  • Not all branches offer notary services, and availability varies by location and time of day.
  • Some documents—like certain powers of attorney or affidavits—may be declined by the notary depending on bank policy.

What documents Bank of America notaries will and will not handle

Bank of America notaries can notarize most common documents: loan documents, affidavits, powers of attorney, real estate papers, and signature verifications. They will notarize a document only if you appear in person with a valid photo ID and sign it in front of the notary. The notary cannot sign for you or notarize a document you have already signed elsewhere.

Some branches decline certain documents based on their notary's training or the bank's internal guidelines. For example, a notary may refuse to notarize a document if the language is unclear, if you appear confused about what you are signing, or if the document looks altered or suspicious. If your branch declines, ask whether another nearby branch might help, or contact a mobile notary service or your state's notary public directory for alternatives.

How to prepare before you visit

Bring the unsigned document and a valid government-issued photo ID—a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The notary will check your ID to confirm your identity before notarizing. If the document requires multiple signatures, make sure you know which ones need to be notarized and which ones do not; the notary can only notarize signatures made in their presence.

If you are unsure whether your document is ready to be notarized, call the branch beforehand and describe it. Ask whether the notary has any concerns or requirements. Some documents have specific language or formatting that notaries expect to see, and catching those issues before you arrive saves a trip.

Timing and what to expect during the appointment

Bank of America notary services are walk-in only; you do not need to schedule an appointment. During business hours, a notary is usually available within 10 to 20 minutes, though wait times vary by branch and time of day. Branches in busy areas or during lunch hours may have longer waits.

The notary will ask you to sign the document in front of them, verify your identity using your photo ID, and then explore their seal and signature. The entire process usually takes 5 to 10 minutes per document. If you have multiple documents, each one counts as a separate notarization and may incur a separate fee for non-customers.

Cost for account holders versus non-customers

Bank of America account holders receive notary services at no charge. Non-customers typically pay between $5 and $15 per signature, though the exact fee varies by branch and state. Some branches may charge a flat fee per document rather than per signature, so ask when you call.

If cost is a concern, check whether your employer, union, or insurance company offers notary services to members at no charge. Many do. Your state's notary public directory (usually maintained by the Secretary of State) can also direct you to public notaries in your area, some of whom charge less than banks.

When Bank of America cannot help and what to do instead

If your local branch does not offer notary services, does not have a notary available when you need one, or declines to notarize your specific document, you have other options. Many UPS stores, FedEx locations, and Staples branches have notaries on staff. Some real estate offices, title companies, and law offices will notarize documents for a fee. Your state's Secretary of State office maintains a searchable directory of commissioned notaries in your area.

Mobile notaries will come to your home or office for a fee, usually $50 to $150 depending on distance and complexity. This option works well if you are unable to travel or need notarization outside normal business hours. Search online for "mobile notary near me" or check your state's notary directory for mobile options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be a Bank of America customer to get a document notarized?

No. Non-customers can use Bank of America's notary services for a fee, typically $5 to $15 per signature. Account holders receive the service at no charge. Call your local branch to confirm they offer notary services and ask about their fee.

Can Bank of America notarize a document I already signed?

No. A notary can only notarize a signature made in their presence. If you have already signed the document, the notary cannot notarize it. You will need to obtain a blank copy and sign it in front of the notary.

What if the notary at my branch refuses to notarize my document?

The notary may decline if the document is unclear, if you appear uncertain about what you are signing, or if the document looks altered. Ask the notary why they declined and whether another branch might help. If not, contact a mobile notary, a title company, or your state's notary directory for alternatives.

Can I schedule a notary appointment at Bank of America in advance?

Bank of America notary services are walk-in only; appointments are not available. Visit during business hours when a notary is on staff. Call ahead to confirm availability and avoid a wasted trip.

How long does notarization take?

The notarization itself takes 5 to 10 minutes per document. Wait time depends on how busy the branch is; expect 10 to 20 minutes on average, longer during peak hours.