Need something notarized but don’t have time to meet with a notary in person? You may not have to.
Remote Online Notarization, commonly called RON, allows you to meet with a commissioned notary online using secure audio-video technology. Instead of traveling to an office or arranging for a mobile notary to come to you, the notarization can be completed remotely from your computer, tablet, or other compatible device.
For many people, the biggest surprise about Remote Online Notarization is simply discovering that it exists.
What Is Remote Online Notarization?
Remote Online Notarization allows a signer and notary to meet electronically rather than being physically together in the same room.
During the appointment, the signer and notary communicate in real time through a secure online notarization platform. The notary verifies the signer’s identity, witnesses the signing when required, completes the appropriate notarial certificate, and applies an electronic notarial signature and seal.
The result is a legally performed notarization completed without an in-person meeting.
Is Remote Online Notarization Legal in New Jersey?
Yes. New Jersey law permits commissioned notaries who have met the state’s requirements to perform remote and electronic notarizations.
The notary must be physically located in New Jersey when performing the notarization, but the signer does not necessarily have to be.
That means a New Jersey notary may be able to assist someone who is located elsewhere in New Jersey, another state, or even outside the United States when the document and circumstances meet the applicable legal requirements.
This can make RON especially useful for people who are traveling, temporarily living elsewhere, coordinating documents with family members in different locations, or simply unable to conveniently meet with a notary in person.
How Does an Online Notary Verify Your Identity?
Identity verification is one of the most important parts of Remote Online Notarization.
A RON appointment isn’t simply a video call where you hold your driver’s license up to the camera. Secure online notarization technology provides additional methods of verifying the identity of the signer.
Depending on the circumstances and platform being used, the process may include:
- Uploading an acceptable government-issued photo ID
- Credential analysis of the identification presented
- Identity-proofing procedures
- Real-time audio and video communication with the notary
- Visual comparison of the signer with their identification
- Creation of an electronic record of the notarization
These safeguards help the notary confirm that the person appearing remotely is the person they claim to be.
What Happens During a Remote Online Notarization?
Although the technology behind RON is sophisticated, the process for the client is relatively straightforward.
Before the appointment, you’ll provide information about the document that needs to be notarized and receive instructions for joining the secure online session.
During the appointment, you will generally:
- Access the secure online notarization platform.
- Complete the required identity-verification process.
- Meet with the notary by live audio and video.
- Present your identification and answer any required questions.
- Review and electronically sign the document as directed.
- Watch as the notary completes the notarization electronically.
- Receive access to the completed electronic document.
The exact process can vary depending on the document and the number of signers or witnesses involved.
When Can Remote Online Notarization Be Helpful?
RON can be particularly convenient when:
- You need a document notarized quickly.
- You have difficulty traveling to a notary.
- You’re away from home on business or vacation.
- Family members or other signers are in different locations.
- You need an appointment outside traditional business hours.
- Transportation or mobility makes an in-person appointment difficult.
- You simply prefer the convenience of handling the transaction online.
For busy professionals, families coordinating documents across multiple locations, travelers, and others who value flexibility, Remote Online Notarization can eliminate a great deal of unnecessary scheduling and travel.
Can Every Document Be Notarized Online?
Not necessarily.
Whether a document is appropriate for Remote Online Notarization can depend on the type of document, how it will be used, and the requirements of the organization that will ultimately receive it.
Some receiving agencies, institutions, courts, government offices, or other parties may have their own requirements regarding electronic documents and signatures.
Before scheduling a RON appointment, it’s a good idea to confirm that the receiving party will accept an electronically signed and remotely notarized document.
If you’re unsure whether your document can be handled remotely, Adams Notary Services can review the notarization requirements with you. A notary cannot provide legal advice or choose a notarial act on your behalf, but can help determine whether the requested notarization can be performed remotely.
Remote Online Notarization vs. Mobile Notary Service
Both services offer convenience, but in different ways.
With a mobile notary appointment, the notary travels to you and the notarization takes place face-to-face. This may be preferable when you’re working with paper documents, need an in-person signing, or are assisting someone who is more comfortable meeting with a notary personally.
With Remote Online Notarization, no travel is required. The entire appointment takes place through a secure online platform.
The best option depends on your document, circumstances, and personal preference.
Professional Notary Service—Wherever You Are
At Adams Notary Services, LLC, our goal is to make notarization as straightforward and convenient as possible.
We provide both mobile notary services throughout Northern New Jersey and Remote Online Notarization, giving clients the flexibility to choose the option that works best for their situation.
Whether you’re at home in New Jersey, traveling across the country, or located farther away, an online notarization may allow you to take care of an important document without waiting until you can meet with a notary in person.
Have a document that needs to be notarized and wondering whether it can be done online? Contact Adams Notary Services, LLC to discuss your document and find out whether Remote Online Notarization is an appropriate option.
