Remote online notarization (RON) is a process where you sign or notarize documents using online audio-visual technology. The participants do not have to meet in person. The method has become popular in this COVID-19 pandemic as it reduces physical document handling and personal interactions. Many states have adopted remote online notarization for business as it is efficient and secure. Some states require you to go through training to access this online method. Not everyone can carry out RON. You, therefore, have to go through some processes to become eligible for this technique.
Qualifications
Be a Notary Public
The first step is to be a qualified Notary Public with a current commission ID. It takes a maximum of four weeks to become an eligible notary public. Find a reliable person to take you through the process of being a qualified Notary Public.
Ensure your state approves RON
Not all states approve remote online notarization. Before proceeding to any other step, you must ensure your state supports this process. If your state accepts RON, ensure you abide by the laws as different nations have varying rules.
Get remote online notarization certification
You must take an exam before notarizing documents online through remote online notarization. The exam entails the technology and procedures needed for a successful online document notarization. You must familiarize yourself with RON contents before sitting for the exam.
Purchase an electronic notary seal
An electronic notary seal, also known as eSeal, is used in place of an in-person seal to stamp and seal notarized documents. You must have this seal to engage in RON. National Notary Association provides electronic notary seal to notaries public and has abundant knowledge in RON, which can help you learn more about this process.
Get a Federal Bridge digital certificate
Federal Bridge digital certificate is a requirement in some states. This certificate is an approval to the government that your digitally signed and notarized documents are verified and trusted. It also acts as your digital identity. Look for a reliable corporation to get the required certificates, for example, Secured Signing partners.
Choose a remote online notarization vendor
The vendor you choose must comply with the States legislation. Services offered by vendors are identity approval and credential analysis techniques, audio-visual conferencing technology, compatibility of electronic notary seal, and an electronic notary journal. Be careful not to fall into the hands of an unapproved vendor. Some states require vendors to be approved by the Secretary of that State.
If you successfully go through all these steps, you are remote online notarization set. Ensure you always follow RON rules and regulations for effective working.
Benefits
Reduce paper, postage, and printing costs
Remote online notarization is fully digitalized, so no postage or printing process is involved. The evident reduction of operating expenses will help save your money. You always endeavor to reduce costs to help your business break-even and start making profits. It is also environment friendly since no paperwork is involved[WU1] .
Improve and speed up the process
Through this digitized platform, you can sign, notarize and e-mail your documents on the same day. You can store, fill, and easily retrieve documents on your computer, improving storage and recalling information anytime you need it.
Involves an electronic notary journal
You do not need to carry around a notepad with RON like it is in other methods of notarization. Misplacing your tablet means all your information is lost. An electronic notary journal ensures the information is logged and securely stored digitally. Any document alteration is notable through the seal.
Works efficiently and remotely
You can complete the RON process at the comfort of the Notary Publics home. Remote online notarization enables you to notarize many documents without having to travel. You efficiently work from any place, any time with any device making it easy to work with clients from any location.
It enhances security
Remote online notarization is more secure compared to in-person notarization. All the notaries in RON are done online through video or audio, which means they are recorded. In case of any dispute, you can refer to the recordings. The process verifies each person’s signature, improving protection from fraud or forgery.
Improves client experience
Clients enjoy similar benefits with an online notary public, quick notarization process, less time, less traveling, and security. Clients are highly likely to refer you to friends, family, and fellow workers for document notarization services.
It is a simple process
After going through all the procedures to become an online notary public, you can easily access RON. It is accessible to log in and take a few minutes. You can take about ten minutes from the starting point to download your notarized document.
The widespread adoption of remote online notarization by various sectors like state governments and businesses shows that modern society recognizes the benefits of digital technology. RON entirely increases service efficiency and consumer satisfaction, improving quality of life.
