Bank of America offers notary services at most of its branches, but availability and cost vary by location
Yes, Bank of America does provide notary services. Most Bank of America branches have at least one notary public on staff during business hours. However, the service is not may provide at every location — smaller branches or those in rural areas may not have a notary available, and some branches limit notary appointments to customers only.
The cost is typically free or low-cost for Bank of America customers, though some branches charge a small per-document fee. Non-customers may pay a higher fee or be turned away entirely. Because policies differ by branch, calling ahead is the only way to know what you will encounter at your specific location.
Key Takeaways
- Bank of America notary services are free or low-cost for account holders at most branches, but you should call your local branch first to confirm availability.
- Non-customers may be charged a fee or denied service, depending on the branch's policy.
- You will need to bring a valid government-issued photo ID and the document that needs notarizing.
- Notary hours follow regular branch hours, so weekend and evening availability depends on your branch's schedule.
- If your nearest Bank of America branch does not offer notary services, your city or county clerk's office usually provides them at a set fee.
How to learn about your Bank of America branch has a notary
The fastest way is to call your local Bank of America branch directly and ask whether a notary is available and whether they serve non-customers. The phone number is on the Bank of America website — search for your branch by zip code, and the number will appear on the location page.
When you call, ask three things: whether a notary is currently on staff, whether you need an appointment, and what the fee is for your situation (customer or non-customer). Some branches keep a notary available during all hours; others have one notary who works specific days. A few branches have no notary at all.
You can also visit the branch in person during business hours and ask at the customer service desk. If you are already a Bank of America customer, you may be able to ask your regular banker or call the customer service number on the back of your debit card.
What to bring when you go for notarization
Bring a valid government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. The notary must verify your identity before notarizing any document.
Bring the original document that needs to be notarized. The notary will not notarize a copy or a document you have not yet signed. If the document requires your signature, you will sign it in front of the notary. Do not sign it beforehand.
If you are unsure whether your document needs notarization or what type of notarization it requires, bring any paperwork that came with it — a loan process, court form, or letter from an attorney. The notary can tell you what is needed.
Cost and who qualifies for free service
Bank of America customers typically receive notary services free of charge. Non-customers are usually charged a fee, though the amount varies by branch — some charge per document, others charge per signature. A few branches refuse to notarize for non-customers altogether.
There is no way to know your branch's exact policy without calling. If you are a non-customer and the fee seems high, your city or county clerk's office usually notarizes documents for a lower set fee, often between $2 and $10 per document depending on your state.
When Bank of America notary services may not work for you
If your branch has no notary on staff, you will need to find another source. This is most common in very small towns or rural areas where Bank of America has only a few branches.
If you need notarization outside of business hours — evenings, weekends, or holidays — Bank of America branches will be closed. Some cities have mobile notaries or 24-hour notary services, though these charge higher fees. Your county clerk's office is open during regular business hours and is usually the cheapest option.
If the document is unusual or requires a specific type of notarization (such as a certified copy or an acknowledgment), the notary at your branch may not be able to handle it. Complex documents sometimes require a notary with special training or credentials. In that case, ask the notary for a referral or contact your county clerk.
Alternatives if Bank of America does not work for you
Your city or county clerk's office provides notary services and is required by law to notarize documents for any member of the public. The fee is set by your state and is usually between $2 and $10 per document. Hours are typically 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays. Search online for "[your city] clerk notary" or "[your county] clerk notary" to find the address and phone number.
UPS stores, FedEx Office locations, and some pharmacies (including CVS and Walgreens) offer notary services for a fee, usually $5 to $15 per document. Availability varies by location, so call ahead. These are often open longer hours than government offices.
If you need notarization urgently or outside normal business hours, search for "mobile notary" or "24-hour notary" in your area. These notaries come to you, but charge significantly more — often $50 to $100 or higher depending on distance and time of day.
What happens after the notary notarizes your document
The notary will sign and stamp the document, usually in a blank space at the bottom or on a separate page called a notarial certificate. The stamp shows the notary's name, commission number, and the date. This is your proof that the document was notarized.
Keep the original notarized document. Make copies if you need them, but the original with the notary's signature and stamp is what matters legally. If you lose it, you will need to have the document notarized again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be a Bank of America customer to get a document notarized there?
No, but non-customers may be charged a fee or turned away depending on the branch. Call your local branch first to ask their policy. If they will not serve you, your county clerk's office will notarize for anyone.
Can Bank of America notarize documents I have already signed?
No. You must sign the document in front of the notary. If you have already signed it, the notary cannot notarize it — you will need a new copy and must sign it again during the notarization.
How long does notarization take?
Usually 5 to 10 minutes if you have your ID and the document ready. If the branch is busy, you may wait longer. Some branches require an appointment, which can add a day or two to the process.
What if I need a notarized copy of a document, not just a signature notarized?
That is a different service called a certified copy, and not all notaries offer it. Call your branch and ask specifically whether they do certified copies. If not, your county clerk usually can.
Can I get a document notarized by mail or online with Bank of America?
No. Notarization requires you to appear in person with a valid ID so the notary can verify your identity. Remote notarization exists in some states, but Bank of America does not currently offer it.