Common Questions About Remote Online Notarization — Answered
Remote Online Notarization has made it possible to complete many notarizations without traveling to a notary’s office. Convenient? Absolutely. But if you’ve never used the service before, it’s perfectly reasonable to have a few questions before putting your important documents—and identity—online.
How does it work? Is it secure? What identification will you need? And, perhaps most importantly, will your document actually be accepted?
This remote online notarization FAQ answers some of the questions clients commonly have before scheduling a RON appointment.
1. What Is Remote Online Notarization?
Remote online notarization, commonly called RON, allows a commissioned and authorized notary to perform a notarization using secure audio-video technology.
Instead of meeting across a desk, the signer and remote online notary meet through an approved online platform. The notary verifies the signer’s identity, completes the required notarial act, and applies an electronic signature and seal to the document.
The setting is digital. The notary’s responsibilities are not.
2. How Does Remote Online Notarization Work?
The exact process can vary by platform and jurisdiction, but generally you’ll:
- Upload or provide the document.
- Complete the required identity-verification process.
- Connect with the notary through live audio and video.
- Present identification and answer the notary’s questions.
- Electronically sign as instructed.
- Have the notary complete the notarization electronically.
The completed document can then be provided electronically according to the platform’s process.
No commute. No searching for a nearby notary. No wondering whether the office closes before you can get there.
3. Is Remote Online Notarization Safe?
Security is an important part of RON.
Remote notarization platforms may use safeguards such as credential analysis, identity proofing, secure audio-video communication, electronic records, and tamper-evident technology.
The notary must also follow applicable laws and procedures for verifying identity and completing the notarial act.
RON isn’t simply a regular video call with a notary on the other end. The technology and verification procedures are specifically designed for the notarization process.
4. What Identification Do I Need?
You’ll generally need acceptable identification that allows the notary and RON platform to verify your identity.
Depending on applicable requirements and the platform being used, this may include a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport.
Your identification should be current, legible, and available during your appointment.
You may also be required to complete additional identity verification before connecting with the notary.
5. What Documents Can Be Notarized Online?
Many documents may be eligible for online notarization, including certain:
- Affidavits
- Powers of Attorney
- Business documents
- Consent forms
- Authorization letters
- Real estate documents
- Financial documents
- Agreements and other legal documents
However, not every document is appropriate or legally eligible for RON.
Requirements can depend on the document, applicable law, and the organization receiving it. Before scheduling, it’s wise to confirm that your particular document can be remotely notarized and will be accepted by its intended recipient.
6. Can I Use a Remote Online Notary If I’m Outside New York?
Potentially, yes.
One of RON‘s biggest conveniences is that the signer and notary don’t necessarily need to be in the same physical location.
However, the notary must comply with the laws governing the notary’s commission and remote notarization authority. Other requirements may also apply depending on the signer’s location, document, and transaction.
If you’re traveling or located outside New York, mention that when requesting your appointment so the circumstances can be reviewed beforehand.
7. Do I Need Special Technology?
Nothing worthy of an IT department, but you do need reliable technology.
Generally, you should have:
- A stable internet connection.
- A compatible computer or device.
- A working camera.
- A microphone and speakers.
- Access to the required platform or supported browser.
Choose a quiet, well-lit location where the notary can clearly see and hear you.
And testing the camera and microphone before your RON appointment is time well spent. Technology has a remarkable ability to develop stage fright precisely when the meeting begins.
8. Should I Sign My Document Before the Appointment?
Not necessarily.
Some notarial acts require the signer to sign while appearing before the notary. Others may involve acknowledging a signature that was previously made.
Because the requirements depend on the notarial act, don’t assume you should sign beforehand.
If you’re unsure, leave the signature blank and ask the notary for instructions.
9. Is a Remotely Notarized Document Legally Valid?
Remote online notarizations performed in accordance with applicable law can be legally valid.
However, legal validity and acceptance by a particular recipient aren’t necessarily the same question.
A receiving organization, government agency, foreign authority, or other institution may have its own document requirements. When possible, confirm that the recipient accepts remotely notarized documents before completing the notarization.
One quick question beforehand can save considerable backtracking later.
10. Why Choose Remote Online Notarization?
For many clients, the biggest advantage is simple: convenience without sacrificing the formal notarization process.
RON can be particularly useful when:
- Traveling to a notary is inconvenient.
- Signers are in different locations.
- Transportation or mobility is limited.
- A document needs timely attention.
- You prefer completing transactions digitally.
The result is a notary service designed to fit more naturally into the way people already work, communicate, and conduct business today.
Leaon’s Perspective
Remote Online Notarization may use sophisticated technology, but your experience with it shouldn’t feel overly technical.
A little preparation goes a long way: understand what your document requires, have your identification ready, check your technology, and ask questions before the appointment if anything is unclear.
At The Leaon Ledger House, our online notary services combine the convenience of RON with thoughtful guidance throughout the process. We want you to know what to expect, what to prepare, and what happens next.
Because modern convenience works best when it comes with good old-fashioned attention to detail.
