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What is Remote Online Notarization (RON)?

Remote Online Notarization (RON) is a relatively new process that allows individuals to notarize documents online without needing physical presence. This notarization method has become increasingly popular, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, as it offers a convenient, safe, and secure way of conducting notarial acts remotely.

At its core, Remote Online Notarization is a video conferencing technology that enables a notary public to notarize a document over the internet. RON was first introduced in the early 2000s, and since then, it has been gradually adopted in many states across the United States.

How Does Remote Online Notarization Work?

Remote Online Notarization (RON) uses video conferencing to allow a notary public to perform notarial acts online. Here is a step-by-step breakdown of how RON works:

1. The signer logs in to a Remote Online Notarization platform using their computer, tablet, or smartphone.

2. The signer uploads the document that needs to be notarized.

3. The notary public verifies the signer’s identity by requesting that they show their government-issued identification.

4. The notary public then asks the signer to swear or affirm that the information in the document is true and accurate.

5. The notary public electronically signs the document and applies their notary seal.

6. The notary public emails the notarized document to the signer.

This process allows signers to notarize documents remotely without needing physical presence. RON platforms use advanced security measures to protect the signer’s information and prevent fraud. Additionally, RON can be completed in minutes, making it a fast and convenient way to notarize documents online.

What Are the Benefits of Remote Online Notarization?

Remote Online Notarization (RON) offers several benefits over traditional notarization methods. Here are some of the advantages of RON:

Convenience: With RON, signers can complete the notarization process from anywhere, anytime, using a computer, tablet, or smartphone. This eliminates the need to travel to a physical location to have a document notarized, saving time and money.

Efficiency: RON can be completed in minutes, whereas traditional notarization methods may require scheduling an appointment and waiting for the notary public to become available. This makes RON an ideal option for time-sensitive transactions.

Security: RON platforms use advanced security measures, such as multifactor authentication and encryption, to protect the signer’s information and prevent fraud. This makes RON a safe and secure way to notarize documents online.

Accessibility: RON makes notarization more accessible to individuals with disabilities or mobility issues who may have difficulty travelling to a physical location to have a document notarized.

Environmental Sustainability: By eliminating the need for physical travel, RON reduces the carbon footprint associated with traditional notarization methods, making it a more environmentally sustainable option.

Speed: Remote Online Notarization can be completed in minutes, saving signers valuable time.

Cost-Effective: Remote Online Notarization is often less expensive than traditional notarization methods, as it eliminates the need for travel and other associated expenses.

Is Remote Online Notarization Legal?

Yes, Remote Online Notarization (RON) is legal in many states and jurisdictions in the United States. As of March 2023, over 30 states have passed laws allowing RON, and more states are expected to follow.

The rules and requirements for RON may vary depending on the state or jurisdiction in which the notarization occurs. In general, however, RON is subject to the same legal requirements as traditional notarization methods, including verifying the signer’s identity, ensuring that the signer is signing the document of their own free will, and maintaining a record of the notarization.

To ensure compliance with legal requirements, RON platforms typically have built-in security features and procedures, such as multifactor authentication and recording of the notarization session, to prevent fraud and maintain a verifiable transaction record.

It is important to note that while RON is legal in many states and jurisdictions, it may not be suitable or permitted for all types of documents or transactions. It is always best to consult a qualified legal professional to determine the appropriate notarization method for a specific document or transaction.

Cost of remote online notarization

The cost of remote online notarization (RON) can vary depending on various factors, such as the RON platform used, the document type being notarized, and the state or jurisdiction where the notarization occurs.

Some RON platforms may charge a flat fee per notarization, while others may charge based on the number of signers or the complexity of the document. It is important to review the RON platform’s pricing structure before initiating a notarization.

In some states, the fees charged by notaries for RON may be regulated by law and may be the same as those for traditional in-person notarization. In other states, the fees may be set by the individual notary or by the RON platform being used.

Overall, the cost of RON can be comparable to the cost of traditional notarization methods. In some cases, RON may be more cost-effective due to eliminating travel and other related expenses. It is always a good idea to compare the costs of different notarization methods and platforms to determine the most cost-effective option for a specific transaction.

Remote Online Notarization is a secure, convenient, and efficient way to notarize documents online without needing a physical presence. With the advent of new technologies, Remote Online Notarization is becoming increasingly popular across the United States, offering a range of benefits to individuals and businesses alike. As the world becomes more digital, Remote Online Notarization is expected to become even more widespread, providing a fast, cost-effective, and accessible way to notarize documents online.