Many people find themselves needing notary services at some point, whether for signing real estate documents, affidavits, powers of attorney, or other legal forms. A common question is whether major banks provide this service, especially those with widespread access like Bank of America. If you are a customer of this institution or simply live near one of its branches, you may be wondering: does Bank of America have a notary? Understanding how notary services work at a financial institution can help you save time and avoid unnecessary hassle when preparing important legal paperwork.
Understanding Notary Services
What is a Notary Public?
A notary public is an individual authorized by the state to witness the signing of important documents and to verify the identity of the signers. Their role helps deter fraud by ensuring that all parties involved in the signing process are present and participating voluntarily. A notary public places an official seal or stamp on the document once it has been signed correctly and legally.
Common Documents Requiring Notarization
There are various types of documents that may require notarization, including:
- Legal affidavits
- Property deeds and mortgage agreements
- Power of attorney forms
- Wills and living trusts
- Bank forms and letters of authorization
- Business contracts
Notarizing these documents gives them added legal credibility and is often required when submitting paperwork to a court, government office, or business entity.
Does Bank of America Offer Notary Services?
Availability of Notary Services
Yes, Bank of America does offer notary services at many of its branch locations. However, availability can vary based on the specific branch, location, and whether the notary public is present on-site at the time of your visit. It is important to note that while many Bank of America branches offer this service, it is generally reserved for customers of the bank.
Services Typically Offered
The notary service offered by Bank of America usually includes:
- Witnessing signatures on legal and financial documents
- Verifying government-issued photo identification
- Administering oaths and affirmations
- Affixing the official notary stamp to validate the document
These services are typically offered free of charge to Bank of America account holders, including those with checking, savings, or credit accounts. Non-customers may not be eligible for notary services at all Bank of America branches.
How to Access Notary Services at Bank of America
Make an Appointment
Although walk-in services may be possible, it is strongly recommended that you call ahead or schedule an appointment online. This ensures that a notary public will be available when you arrive. Some branches have only one employee certified to perform notary duties, so planning ahead helps prevent delays or rescheduling.
Prepare Your Documents
Before visiting the branch, make sure you bring all necessary paperwork in its original form. Do not sign the documents beforehand, as the notary must witness your signature in person. Also, bring a valid, government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport. The notary will need this to confirm your identity before proceeding.
Check Your Branch’s Services
Not all Bank of America branches offer the same services. Some may not have a notary available, especially smaller or more specialized locations. Use the bank’s branch locator tool on its website or contact customer service to confirm availability before visiting.
Fees and Eligibility
Cost of Notary Services
Bank of America generally provides notary services free of charge to its customers. If you maintain an account with the bank, you should not have to pay a fee for standard notarization services. However, there may be limits to the number of documents you can notarize per visit, or types of documents accepted, depending on the branch.
For non-customers, Bank of America typically does not offer notary services. In such cases, you may need to visit a local UPS store, law office, or public notary to get your document notarized, often for a fee ranging from $10 to $25 or more per document.
What Documents Are Not Accepted?
While Bank of America can notarize many legal and financial documents, there are some types they may decline. These can include:
- Immigration-related documents
- I-9 Employment Eligibility forms
- Documents written in a foreign language (unless accompanied by a certified translation)
If your document falls into any of these categories, you may need to seek specialized notary services or consult with an attorney.
Benefits of Using Bank of America for Notary Services
Convenience and Trust
Using a familiar and established bank like Bank of America provides convenience and a sense of trust. For existing customers, notarizing documents at your usual bank branch can save time, especially when combined with other banking errands. The notary public at the bank is usually trained to handle a wide range of legal forms and will ensure the process is handled professionally.
Free for Account Holders
One of the major benefits of using Bank of America’s notary services is that they are typically free if you have an account. This makes it a cost-effective solution for those who regularly need documents notarized, such as small business owners or real estate investors.
Security and Documentation
Bank notaries follow strict procedures to verify identity and document the transaction. This adds a layer of legal protection for everyone involved. Each notarization includes a journal entry and official stamp, which helps prevent disputes later on.
Alternatives if Not Available
What to Do If Your Branch Doesn’t Offer Notary Services
If your local Bank of America branch doesn’t offer notary services or cannot accommodate you, there are alternative options. Some of these include:
- Local UPS stores (many have notaries on staff)
- Libraries or city clerk’s offices
- Private notaries or mobile notary services
- Online notary platforms that offer remote notarization (varies by state)
Make sure any notary you choose is licensed in your state and authorized to perform the specific service you require.
Bank of America does provide notary services at many of its branch locations, primarily for existing customers. The process is generally straightforward, secure, and free of charge. However, availability may vary by location, so it’s best to contact your branch in advance and schedule an appointment. For those who need notary services often, being a customer at Bank of America can be a convenient and cost-effective solution. If not available, a variety of alternative notary options exist both in-person and online to meet your document-signing needs.