Remote Online Notarization allows you to meet with a commissioned notary using a secure online platform instead of traveling to a physical office. For many people, it is a convenient way to notarize documents from home, work, or another location.
Although the appointment takes place online, a little preparation is still important. Here is what you should know before your session.
1. Do Not Sign the Document in Advance
Unless you have been specifically instructed otherwise, wait to sign your document until you are connected with the notary.
The notary may need to witness you sign, administer an oath or affirmation, or confirm certain information before the signature is completed. Signing too early could mean that a new document is required.
2. Have Acceptable Identification Ready
You will generally need a government-issued photo identification containing your photograph and signature. A driver’s license, state identification card, or passport is commonly used.
Identification requirements can vary depending on the notary’s commissioning state and the online platform being used. Before the appointment, confirm that your identification meets the requirements provided to you.
3. Use the Right Device
A desktop computer, laptop, or tablet usually provides the best experience. Some platforms also permit smartphones, although completing a document on a larger screen is often easier.
Your device should have:
- A working camera
- A working microphone and speakers
- A stable internet connection
- Access to email or text messages
- A supported and updated internet browser
Google Chrome is commonly recommended for Remote Online Notarization platforms.
4. Choose a Quiet, Well-Lit Location
The notary must be able to see and hear you clearly throughout the appointment. Sit somewhere private, quiet, and well lit, with your identification and face clearly visible on camera.
Avoid joining the session while driving, walking through a public place, or participating in another activity. You should be able to give the notarization your full attention.
5. Tell Us Where You Will Be Located
If you will be outside the United States, traveling, or signing from a different state than usual, let us know before the appointment. International signings may involve additional document, identity, or destination requirements that should be reviewed in advance.
6. Identify All Signers, Witnesses, and Interpreters
If more than one person must sign, tell us whether everyone will be together or joining from separate locations.
Some documents also require one or more witnesses. Witnesses may need to meet eligibility and identity-verification requirements and may need to join the online session using their own device.
If a signer requires an interpreter or language-qualified notary, that should also be identified before the appointment. Advance notice gives us time to coordinate the right participants and prevent unnecessary delays.
7. Watch for Your Appointment Instructions
Before the session, you may receive an email or text message containing:
- Your appointment link
- Identity-verification instructions
- Technology requirements
- Information about acceptable identification
- Instructions for witnesses or additional signers
Review these instructions before the appointment and allow a few extra minutes to complete any required identity-verification steps.
What Happens During the Appointment?
During the secure video session, the notary will verify your identity, confirm your willingness and awareness, review the required notarial act, and watch you sign or acknowledge the document as required.
After the notarization is completed, the document will be returned according to the delivery instructions for the assignment.
Preparation Makes Online Notarization Easier
Most online notarizations can be completed smoothly when the signer has the correct identification, a suitable device, and clear instructions before the session begins.
Online Notary Anywhere coordinates Remote Online Notarization appointments for individual signers, businesses, law firms, title companies, and other professionals. We can also assist with multiple signers, separate locations, witnesses, language needs, traveling signers, and certain international situations.
Ready to get started? Submit an eNotary Request at www.onlinenotaryanywhere.com or call 702-330-3300 to discuss your notarization.
This article is provided for general educational and informational purposes and is not legal advice. Document and notarization requirements vary. Consult the document’s receiving agency or a qualified attorney with questions about whether a document will be accepted.
