Online Notarization: How It Works & What Makes a Good Online Notary Service

In today's digital age, conducting business and legal transactions online has become more common than ever. As a result, the demand for online notarization services has grown significantly.

However, not all online notary services are created equal. It's crucial to understand what makes a good online notary service and how the process works.

In this article, we'll explore the ins and outs of online notarization, including what it is, how it works, and what you should look for in a reputable online notary service.

What is online notarization?

Online notarization is the process of notarizing documents remotely through your computer or device by meeting virtually with a notary public. With online notarization, you connect with a notary public using your device’s camera and microphone instead of visiting them physically.

Remote online notarization (RON) is transforming how we notarize documents by offering a quick, accessible alternative while remaining secure and affordable. The demand for online notarization continues to grow as more and more workplaces operate remotely.

You may also hear online notarization referred to as:

• Remote notarization
• Virtual notarization
• Webcam notarization
• Digital notarization
• Internet notarization

Is online notarization legal?

Yes. Online notarization is legal in all 50 states. Documents that are notarized and signed remotely are 100% legal and valid.

However, some states may have limitations for remotely notarized documents. Currently, 43 states have passed remote online notarization laws.

Although state-specific regulations regarding remote notarization processes and vary, they generally include guidelines that:

1. Permit audio-video communication with notaries
2. Allow you to use a notary when you live outside the state where the notary has authority
3. Outline an identity verification process
4. Require a recording of the communication
5. Require notaries to keep records for a set time

In addition, the Full Faith and Credit Clause of the US Constitution allows a notary performed in one state to be legal in any other state. This clause enables all US citizens to notarize their documents online.

Is online notarization the same as electronic notarization?

No. Electronic notarization is different from online notarization. Electronic notarization means that you and the notary provide electronic signatures in person. Online notarization means that you and the notary provide electronic signatures while connected by a live video call.

What documents can I notarize online?

Although exact requirements vary by state, you can notarize most documents online including:

• Affidavits
• Child Medical Consents
• Child Travel Consents
• Healthcare Directives
• Lien Releases
• Living Trusts
• Powers of Attorney
• Quitclaim, Warranty, and Survivorship Deeds

Which states allow online notarization?

In the United States, all states recognize remote online notarizations (RON). National acceptance of RON exists because every state accepts out-of-state notarizations.

The following states have passed bills to officially recognize RON or have a registration process in place to perform online notarizations:

In addition to state-specific laws, proposed federal legislation aims to authorize and set minimum standards for remote notarizations to ensure online notary services are as legitimate as in-person services.

How much does online notarization cost?

The cost of notary services may vary depending on your type of document and your state. Some states mandate the maximum that an online notary can charge. For example, in Virginia and Texas, they may charge up to $25 for each notarial act.

Generally, online notaries in the United States charge between $20 and $25 for domestic documents. In some cases, online notaries offer discounts on their services when notarizing multiple documents at once.

Some people, such as business owners, may need notarization services many times throughout the year. As such, some online notary services offer monthly and yearly subscription packages You may benefit from a business plan if you sign contracts often.

How does online notarization work?

Here are the steps involved in remote online notarization:

1. Upload your document
2. Schedule an appointment unless they have immediate availability
3. Verify your identity with the notary public before the notarization process begins by providing a valid government-issued ID, such as a passport or driver's license
4. Connect with the notary public
5. Sign the digital document on your computer or mobile device
6. The notary public notarizes your document using audio-visual technology
7. Download and print your notarized document

How to verify your identity during remote online notarization

Generally, an online notarization provider will verify your identity by examining a valid piece of government-issued photo identification and asking you personal questions,

1. Upload your photo ID

To notarize a document online, you’ll have to present a government-issued photo ID. Services often ask you to scan or take a picture of your ID card. Once verified, you’ll connect with the notary public, who confirms that your face matches your ID’s picture.

2. Answer verification questions

With knowledge-based authentication (KBA), you must answer computer-generated questions about your history that only you should know. For instance, questions may ask about your past addresses, Social Security Number, or birth date. Generally, you must answer most of the questions correctly.

What is the best online notary service?

When comparing the different providers of online notary providers, it can be challenging to know which is your best option. When it comes to the “best” provider, it will likely depend on your individual needs. However, when looking for an online notary, ensure that the provider you are choosing has the following:

• A secure website (i.e., one with an “https” URL, not an “http” URL.)
• Transparent pricing options
• Money-back guarantees
• Convenient notary public availability
• Reliable and accessible customer service
• Specific business plan offerings
• An upfront list of which states their services are available in
• A detailed “About Us” page that explains who the company is and how long they have been in business
• Any additional services that will benefit you

LawDepot’s Online Notary meet all the above requirements. LawDepot has over 20 years of experience providing online legal documents and resources to help users navigate complicated legalese with confidence. LawDepot brings that same level of quality and assurance to its online notary services.

LawDepot provides over 150 different online legal document customizable templates for individuals and businesses, such as Employment Contracts and Wills.

LawDepot offers remote online notarizations in all 50 states. Your first seal is $25 and each additional seal is $10.

Most importantly, since LawDepot is a well-established company, you can rest assured that your personal information and privacy will be protected through each step of the notarization process. If for some reason your notarization fails to meet your local courts standards, LawDepot also offers a 100% money-back guarantee.

How to become an online notary

Becoming an online notary public involves meeting the state requirements, obtaining the necessary licenses, and signing up with an online notary platform. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to become an online notary public with an online notary platform:

Step 1: Check your state's requirements

The first step is to check the requirements for becoming an online notary public in your state. Every state has its own set of rules and regulations for becoming a notary.

Visit your state's Secretary of State website or consult with a professional organization like the National Notary Association for detailed information on your state's requirements.

Step 2: Complete the necessary training

Most states require notary public applicants to complete some education and training before applying for a notary commission. Some states may require you to attend a training course. Make sure to meet all the educational and training requirements before applying for your commission.

Step 3: Pass the state notary exam

Most states require notary public applicants to pass an exam to test their knowledge of notary law, procedures, and best practices.

Step 4: Obtain a notary bond and errors and omissions insurance

Most states require notary public applicants to obtain a notary bond and errors and omissions insurance. A notary bond provides financial protection to the public in case you make an error or violate notary laws. Errors and omissions insurance provides additional coverage if you face a lawsuit related to your notary services.

Step 5: Apply for your notary commission

Once you have completed all the necessary requirements, you can apply for your notary commission. Contact your state's Secretary of State office or online notary platform to complete the application process.

Step 6: Sign up with an online notary platform

After obtaining your notary commission, you can sign up with an online notary platform to start offering your notary services online. Look for a reputable platform, like LawDepot, that offers secure and reliable services, as well as good customer support.

Step 7: Start offering your online notary services

With your notary commission and online notary platform account in place, you can start offering your notary services online.