As a small business owner, you’ve probably gone through insurmountable hurdles to get your company up and running. You should be immensely proud, but your struggles have only just begun.
The reality is that there’s lots of paperwork you’ll have to deal with in the lifetime of your business. And chances are, you’ll have to notarize the majority of them.
You can make appointments with your local notary public each time the situation comes up. But wouldn’t things be easier if you could do so on the internet?
If you’re curious about how to notarize a document online, then read on. We’ll discuss everything you need to know.
Can I Notarize a Document Online?
So the big question is this: is it even possible to notarize a document online? The answer is “yes”.
The idea of online notarization services had its origins on March 26, 2011. Virginia was the first state to do remote online notarization (RON), thanks to House Bill 2318/Senate Bill 827. After that, other states slowly followed suit.
However, it wasn’t until the pandemic that people realized the value of such digital services. Organizations still needed notarized documents to move on with operations, and online notarization services were the answer.
From there, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.B. 3962 on July 27, 2022. This bill set minimum RON standards for the entire nation.
Today, most states have permanent RON laws, and a select few have temporary ones. Only three states don’t have RON services: California, Illinois, and Massachusetts. If you’re located in any of these three states, have peace of mind knowing that you can still use online notary services provided in other areas.
How Does an Online Notary Work?
As you might’ve guessed from the name, an online notary works digitally, with no in-person meetings. All involved parties only need a stable internet connection, webcams, microphones (if their webcams don’t have one), and a digital platform for the sending, signing, and receiving of documents.
Here are the steps you’ll go through if you notarize a document online.
Agreement Sending
Typically, the online notary company will have its own platform you can use to upload your documents. You’ll probably have to sign up for an account to gain access.
Usually, you’ll need to send your document in a common electronic format like PDF. Regarding your notary agreement, you can create your own custom one or find a template online. Either way, if you’re the person creating this agreement, you’ll need to add both the signers and the notary public to it.
Signer Identification
The notary public will send personalized links to the signers. These will allow them to join a video call with the notary, who will then verify their identities.
The simplest way to do so is to have the signers upload valid IDs and then compare the live video images to those. They might also ask various background questions and have a third party verify the answers. What the signers will go through will depend on which commissioning state the notary public is in.
Document Signing and Notarizing
After verifying the signers’ identities, the notary continues with the video call. This is the opportunity for the signers to go through the document with the notary, and to ask any questions they may have.
When they’re happy with their understanding of the document, then all the involved parties can sign it. In addition, the notary will put their electronic seal on there.
The notary also has an electronic journal. Not only will they write down important transactional details in it, but they’ll retain both audio and video recordings from the online meeting.
You can then expect the document back with you after the seal is added.
Where to Get Notarized
Now, you might be wondering, “Who notarizes documents?” Well, basically anyone you can find through a search of “online notary” can do so for you. However, you need to be careful to avoid being scammed and having your credentials and data compromised.
Carefully research your options, making note of what technologies they use for digital signing. Not only should these be convenient and easy to use, but they should be secure too.
It can be worth your time to make a shortlist and then speak with each company to get a better understanding of their services and prices. Afterward, you can make a better-informed decision for your final choice.
How to Notarize a Document Online With Business Anywhere
Fortunately for you, we at Business Anywhere offer an online notary service. But what does notarizing a document digitally with us entail?
Account Signup
First off, you’ll need to get an account with Business Anywhere. Not only is it free, but it’s also simple and quick to do.
Fill out your full name, email address, and password, and you’re set. We’ll send you a confirmation email regarding your account.
Service Payment
The next step is to pay for our online notary services. We have a secure payment gateway, so you won’t have to worry about your information being compromised.
After we’ve received the payment, you can then select the date and time for your online notary meeting. You’ll have to upload a form of ID before the actual day.
Notary Meeting
On the day of your appointment, our notary will get in touch with you. When you get on the video call, they’ll compare your live image to the ID you sent them, then you’ll both sign the document, and the notary will attach their official seal. Of course, if you have any questions or concerns, you can address them before proceeding with signing.
Notarized Document Access
You can then find your document on your dashboard afterward. Here, you can view, download, and print anything that’s been uploaded. In addition, you can add any of our services, such as a virtual mailbox.
Have Your Documents Notarized by Business Anywhere
Now that you know how to notarize a document online, you won’t have to seek out a physical place to have it done. Not only will this be more convenient and save you time, but it’ll also be more secure.
So the next time you need notarization services, give ours a try. It’ll be so easy you’ll wonder why you hadn’t thought of it sooner.
To start notarizing your documents, sign up with Business Anywhere today. Our fees are very competitive.
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