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 some branches charge a fee while others offer it free to account holders. You cannot count on walking into any BofA branch and finding a notary on duty—you need to call ahead and confirm both that the service is available and whether you will pay for it.
The most reliable way to find out what your nearest branch offers is to call the branch directly. The main BofA customer service line can transfer you, or you can use the branch locator on their website and call the number listed. Ask specifically whether they have a notary available, whether they charge, and whether you need an appointment or can walk in.
Key Takeaways
- Bank of America branches may offer notary services, but not all locations do and policies differ by branch.
- Calling your local branch directly is the fastest way to confirm whether notary services are available and what the cost is.
- Some BofA branches charge a fee for notary services while others waive it for account holders; this varies by location.
- If your branch does not offer notary services, you can find alternatives through your state's notary locator, UPS stores, or other financial institutions in your area.
What to expect when you call your branch
When you contact your local Bank of America branch, have your account number ready if you are a customer. Ask whether they offer notary services, what documents they can notarize, and whether there is a fee. Some branches limit notary services to account holders only, while others serve the public.
If the branch does offer the service, ask whether you need an appointment or can come in during business hours. Some branches keep a notary on staff full-time; others have one available only on certain days. If you need the document notarized urgently, confirm the branch's hours and when the notary will be present.
Documents Bank of America notaries typically handle
Most Bank of America notaries will notarize standard documents like powers of attorney, affidavits, and loan documents. However, some branches may decline to notarize certain documents—for example, wills, deeds, or documents related to real estate transactions—because of liability concerns or state law restrictions.
Before you go to the branch, call and describe the specific document you need notarized. The notary or branch staff can tell you whether they will handle it. If they cannot, they can often point you toward another notary in the area who can.
Fees and account holder discounts
Bank of America's notary fees are not set at a corporate level; each branch sets its own policy. Some branches charge $10 to $15 per signature, while others waive the fee for account holders. A few branches offer the service free to everyone.
If you are a BofA customer, mention this when you call—you may be may be able to access for a discount or waived fee. If you are not a customer, expect to pay a small fee, though the exact amount depends on the branch.
What to bring to your appointment
Bring the document that needs to be notarized and a valid government-issued photo ID. The notary will verify your identity before notarizing the document. If the document requires multiple signatures, bring it unsigned so the notary can watch you sign it in their presence—this is a legal requirement for notarization.
If you are unsure whether the document is ready to be signed, call the branch beforehand and ask. Some documents have specific formatting requirements, and the notary can tell you whether yours meets them before you come in.
When Bank of America is not an option
If your nearest BofA branch does not offer notary services, or if their hours do not work for you, several alternatives exist. UPS stores, FedEx locations, and other banks often have notaries on staff. Your state's secretary of state office maintains a searchable directory of notaries in your area, organized by county or city.
Online notary services are also available in most states, though they work differently—you sign the document electronically in front of a notary via video call. These services are often faster than visiting a branch in person, though they may cost more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be a Bank of America customer to use their notary service?
It depends on the branch. Some branches offer notary services to the public regardless of account status, while others limit it to account holders. Call your local branch to find out their policy. If they only serve customers, you may be able to open an account, though this is not practical for a one-time notary need.
Can Bank of America notarize documents for real estate transactions?
Many branches decline to notarize real estate documents like deeds or mortgage papers because of liability concerns. Call your branch and describe the document—they can tell you whether they will handle it. If not, a title company, real estate attorney, or independent notary can usually help.
How long does it take to get a document notarized at Bank of America?
If you have an appointment or arrive during a slow time, the process takes 5 to 10 minutes. If you walk in without an appointment, you may wait 15 to 30 minutes depending on how busy the branch is. Calling ahead to schedule an appointment is the safest way to avoid a long wait.
What if I need a notary outside of business hours?
Bank of America branches are not open evenings or weekends at most locations. If you need a notary outside their hours, look for a UPS store, FedEx location, or an online notary service in your state. Some of these options operate extended hours or are available 24/7.