Remote Online Notary: Everything You Need to Know
- Jamie Lee Carmichael
- Nov 18, 2024
- 3 min read
Remote Online Notary (RON) might sound futuristic, but it’s been around longer than you think. It was first legalized in Virginia in 2012 and is now a trusted tool that blends technology and tradition to make notarization faster and more convenient. But how does it work? Is it legit? And what does it cost? Let’s break it down.
What Is Remote Online Notary?
A Remote Online Notary is exactly what it sounds like: a notary who performs notarizations via a secure online platform. Instead of meeting face-to-face, the signer and notary connect through a video call. The notary confirms the signer’s identity, witnesses the signing of the document, and applies their digital seal—all without anyone leaving their home.
How Does It Work?
The process is surprisingly straightforward:
Choose a Notary: If you know a specific Notary Public that performs RON you may contact them directly (ME!) If not, you can go directly to a RON website – there are several, like Notarize (now Proof), Blue Notary, or Cyberize – just to name a couple. If you choose your own notary, they will send you an invite to the appointment.
Verify Your Identity: You’ll usually upload a government-issued ID and answer knowledge-based questions (similar to what credit agencies use).
Join a Video Call: The notary confirms your identity in real time and witnesses you signing the document.
Digital Notarization: The notary applies their electronic seal and signature, finalizing the document.
Receive Your Document: You get the notarized document electronically, often immediately.
Is It Legal?
Yes! Remote Online Notarization is 100% legal in many states and accepted for most transactions, including real estate closings, affidavits, and business agreements. Each state has its own laws governing RON, but the trend is clear: it’s growing rapidly.
Misconceptions: Is RON a Scam?
It’s natural to be skeptical of anything new, especially something as official as notarization going digital. But RON is not a scam—it’s simply a modern take on a centuries-old process.
Here’s the truth:
Notaries are commissioned: They go through the same training and background checks as traditional notaries.
Platforms use encryption and ID verification: Your personal info is secure.
RON is traceable: Every session is recorded, which adds an extra layer of security.
How Much Does RON Cost?
Prices vary depending on the platform and the complexity of the document, but here’s a ballpark:
Basic notarizations: $25–$50 per document.
Add-ons (like multiple seals): $5–$10 per extra stamp.
Real estate closings: $100–$200 due to additional requirements.
At first glance, RON might seem more expensive than walking into a local office or bank. But consider this: RON pricing is comparable to what you’d pay for a mobile notary to come to you, and it saves you time and travel.
Many people think their bank will notarize documents for free, but here’s the catch: banks often have limitations on what they can notarize. Many restrict their services to clients or specific types of documents, like those related to financial transactions. In fact, a large portion of my business comes from referrals when banks can’t help their customers. RON fills that gap, offering a reliable and flexible alternative.
Why Use Remote Online Notary?
Convenience: No need to travel or schedule an in-person appointment.
Speed: Most documents are notarized within minutes.
Accessibility: Ideal for people in rural areas, those with mobility challenges, or anyone traveling abroad.
Privacy: Yes, you can get your document notarized at a local UPS store (if the notary is available!) however, is your document something that you want to sign in a retail setting, with other employees and customers around?
Witnesses: Many documents require one or two credible witnesses. You may not have anyone available to help at the time. Most remote only notary platforms have witnesses available on standby.
The Bottom Line
Remote Online Notary is safe, legal, and efficient. It’s not some sketchy internet scam—it’s a legitimate service designed for the modern world. Whether you’re signing a real estate deed or a power of attorney, RON is worth considering for its convenience and security.
As this technology continues to evolve, it’s likely to become as common as traditional notarization. Why not give it a try and see how simple it can be?
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