In today's digital age, remote online notarization (RON) has become an increasingly popular method for getting documents notarized. It allows individuals to complete notarization from the comfort of their homes, without the need for face-to-face contact with a notary. In this blog post, we will explore the ins and outs of remote online notarization, including how it works and what to expect.
What is Remote Online Notarization?
As the name suggests, remote online notarization is the process of carrying out required notarial acts remotely through the internet using a shared web conferencing platform. It allows the signer and notary to see, hear, and speak to each other during the process, thereby satisfying the previous requirement of face-to-face contact. Once the notary completes the notarization requirements mandated by the state, the signer and notary sign the document electronically, and the notary affixes an electronic seal to the document.
How Does Remote Online Notarization Work?
The process of remote online notarization involves several steps:
Verification: The signer's identity is verified by the notary through an online identification process. The notary will typically request the signer to provide a valid form of identification such as a driver's license, passport, or other government-issued identification.
Document Presentation: The signer presents the document(s) that need to be notarized to the notary via the online platform. The document must be in a format that can be electronically signed.
Audio-Visual Conference: The notary and signer connect via a live audio-video conference on the online platform. During the conference, the notary confirms the identity of the signer, explains the document to the signer, and ensures that the signer understands the contents of the document.
Electronic Signature: The signer electronically signs the document using an electronic signature program approved by the state. The notary also signs the document electronically, and attaches an electronic seal or stamp.
Record Keeping: The notary creates an electronic record of the notarization and stores it in a secure location as required by state law. The notary will also provide a digital copy of the notarized document to the signer.
Document Completion: The notary completes the notarization process and returns the notarized document to the signer, who can then use it for its intended purpose.
It is important to note that the process may vary slightly depending on the state and the online platform used. It is also worth noting that not all documents can be notarized through RON, and that there may be certain restrictions depending on the state laws.
Benefits of Remote Online Notarization
Remote online notarization provides several benefits, including:
Convenience: It allows individuals to get documents notarized from the comfort of their own homes, at a time that works for them.
Accessibility: It allows individuals who may not have access to a traditional notary public to get their documents notarized.
Efficiency: It can save time and reduce the cost associated with traditional notarization, as there is no need for travel or face-to-face meetings.
Security: The process is secure, and electronic records are stored in a secure location as required by state law.
Conclusion
In conclusion, remote online notarization is a convenient, accessible, and secure way to get documents notarized in today's digital age. It allows individuals to complete notarization from the comfort of their homes, at a time that works for them, without the need for travel or face-to-face meetings. However, it is important to carefully review the specific requirements of the online notarization platform and the laws and regulations of the state where the notarization is taking place to ensure compliance with all necessary requirements. If you need to get a document notarized, remote online notarization may be a good option to consider.
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