Bank of America branches do notarize documents, but availability and cost vary by location

Most Bank of America branches offer notary services to customers and non-customers alike. However, not every branch has a notary on staff, and hours when a notary is available may be limited. Some branches charge a fee (typically a few dollars per signature), while others provide the service free to account holders. The fastest way to find out whether your specific branch notarizes and what they charge is to call ahead rather than walk in.

Notarization is a way for an official witness — the notary — to confirm that you signed a document in front of them and that you appear to be who you say you are. Banks offer this service because many of their customers need it for real estate, legal, or financial paperwork. Bank of America's scale means most urban and suburban branches have notaries, but rural locations or smaller branches may not.

Key Takeaways

  • Call your local Bank of America branch before visiting to confirm a notary is available and ask about any fees.
  • You will need a valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) when you arrive for notarization.
  • Bring the unsigned document with you; the notary must watch you sign it in their presence.
  • Bank of America notaries can notarize most common documents, but some specialized paperwork (like powers of attorney in certain states) may have restrictions.
  • If your branch does not have a notary, ask the staff for a referral to a nearby location or a local notary service.

What to bring when you visit for notarization

Bring your unsigned document and a valid government-issued photo ID. The notary will not notarize a document you have already signed, so leave your pen at home. Your ID must be current and show your photograph — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card all work. If your ID is expired, some notaries will still accept it if the photograph is still recognizable, but call ahead to ask your branch's policy.

If the document requires multiple signatures (yours and a witness, for example), bring anyone else who needs to sign. The notary will watch each person sign. If someone cannot be present, ask the notary whether they can notarize only your signature and leave space for others to sign later — this depends on the document type and the notary's judgment.

How much Bank of America notarization costs

Bank of America account holders often receive notarization free or at a reduced rate, though this varies by branch and account type. Non-customers typically pay a small fee per signature, usually between $5 and $15, though some branches charge differently. The cost is not set by Bank of America's national office; each branch sets its own fees within company guidelines. This is why calling ahead matters — you will know the exact cost before you arrive.

Some branches may charge per document rather than per signature. If you have multiple documents that each need notarization, ask whether the branch charges separately for each one or offers a package rate.

When notary services are available at your branch

Bank of America branches are typically open Monday through Friday during business hours, and many are open Saturday mornings. However, the notary may not be available during all those hours — they may work only certain days or have a lunch break. Some branches have one notary who handles other duties, so you might wait or be asked to come back at a specific time.

Call your branch during business hours and ask when the notary is available. If you need notarization on a weekend or evening, ask whether any nearby branches have extended hours with a notary on staff. If no Bank of America location works for your schedule, the staff can often refer you to a local notary service or title company that may have more flexible hours.

Documents Bank of America notaries can and cannot notarize

Bank of America notaries can notarize most common documents: real estate paperwork, loan documents, affidavits, powers of attorney, and general legal forms. They cannot notarize documents they drafted themselves (to avoid a conflict of interest), and they cannot notarize their own signature.

Some documents have state-specific rules that may prevent notarization. For example, certain states restrict who can notarize a power of attorney, and some documents require a notary public with additional credentials (like a certified signing agent for mortgage documents). If you are unsure whether your document can be notarized at a bank, bring it with you when you call, or ask the branch to describe it to the notary over the phone.

What happens during the notarization process

When you arrive, the notary will ask you to state your name and confirm your identity by examining your photo ID. They will ask you to sign the document in front of them — do not sign it beforehand. The notary will then sign and stamp the document, usually adding a seal or embosser that shows the notarization is official. The whole process usually takes 5 to 10 minutes per document.

The notary may ask you questions about the document: what it is for, whether you understand what you are signing, and whether anyone is forcing you to sign. These questions are routine and protect you by creating a record that you signed willingly and understood the document. Answer honestly. If you do not understand the document, the notary cannot explain it to you — they can only confirm that you signed it. If you need help understanding the content, consult a lawyer or the person who gave you the document before you arrive.

Alternatives if your branch cannot help

If your Bank of America branch does not have a notary or cannot notarize your specific document, ask the staff for a referral. Many branches keep a list of local notaries or title companies nearby. You can also search online for "notary public near me" to find independent notaries in your area, many of whom charge less than banks and may have more flexible hours.

Some documents can be notarized remotely using a video call with a notary, though this is not yet available at all Bank of America branches. If you need remote notarization, ask your branch whether they offer it, or search for "remote notary" services in your state — availability and cost vary widely.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Most Bank of America branches notarize documents for non-customers, though they may charge a higher fee than they charge account holders. Call your local branch to confirm they notarize for non-customers and ask about the cost.

What if I do not have a photo ID?

A notary cannot notarize without seeing a current government-issued photo ID. If you do not have one, you will need to get a state ID or passport first. Some states allow a notary to use other forms of identification in limited situations, so call your branch and describe what ID you have — they can tell you whether it will work.

Can a notary explain what a document means before I sign it?

No. A notary's job is to confirm your identity and witness your signature, not to explain the document's content or legal meaning. If you do not understand what you are signing, ask the person who gave you the document, or consult a lawyer before you visit the notary.

How long does notarization take?

The actual notarization usually takes 5 to 10 minutes per document. However, you may wait if the notary is busy with other customers. Calling ahead to ask when the notary is least busy can help you avoid a long wait.

Can I notarize a document I already signed?

No. The notary must watch you sign the document in front of them. If you have already signed it, the notarization will not be valid. Bring the unsigned document to your appointment.