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Is Online Notarization Legal? An E Notary Guide for Nomads and Digital Entrepreneurs

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Keep reading to find out how online notarization works, if it’s legal, and how it can benefit your business. 

What Does It Mean to Notarize a Document?

Notarization is a way of proving the authenticity of a document. It’s a way of preventing fraud. 

It works on the premises that the Notary Public checks your identity and witnesses you sign the document. Then they notarize it. 

The notarization essentially means that the document isn’t fraudulent. 

Notarizing a document looks something like this; You turn up at the office of the notary public.

You come prepared with your ID and the document you want to notarize. The notary will check your ID and maybe speak to you about the document you’re signing. The notary will witness you signing the document after they’ll also sign and stamp it to certify that they notarized the document. 

Notaries can also create certified copies of already signed documents. This means you bring the original document and its photocopies to the notary. They will certify that the copies are true to the original and haven’t been tampered with. 

Why Do You Need to Notarize Documents?

As explained above, notarization prevents fraud. It’s a common practice when dealing with high-value assets, but also any legal documents. 

Some general documents that need notarization are sworn statements, powers of attorney, rental agreements, contracts, bills of sales, and more. 

You need to notarize certain documents because if you don’t they might not be accepted ‘on the other side.’

How Does Online Notarization Work?

Online notarization does the same thing as in-person notarization. The only difference is that the whole ‘appointment’ happens online. 

You will sign up to a platform, and book an online appointment with a notary. You’ll upload your documents. Then during the appointment, you’ll connect with the notary via a video call. They’ll check your ID and communicate with you during the call. Afterwards, you’ll both sign the document digitally. 

This is a fantastic solution for digital nomads, expats, and entrepreneurs. You can have your documents notarized from anywhere in the world. It’s just as secure as an in-person notarization. 

Is Online Notarization Legal? 

Remote Online Notarization (RON) is legal in more than half of the States.

You might be thinking ‘Oh no, what if my state isn’t on the list.’

It doesn’t matter if your state is on the list or not. If RON isn’t legal in your state it means that the notaries from your state can’t notarize online. But a notary from another state, where RON is legal, can. 

A notary from a different state can notarize your documents. And since it’ll be done online, it’s not a problem that they’re from a different state. You don’t have to travel anywhere. 

Online notarization is recognized and completely legal. Documents that are notarized online are accepted in states that haven’t adapted RON yet. So you don’t have to worry about your digitally notarized documents being rejected.

What Are the Benefits of Online Notarization?

Remote notaries are bridging the gap between old fashioned processes and modern digital businesses. 

Remote notaries, virtual mailboxes, and online company registration services are becoming the virtual back offices for many businesses. 

As a nomad, expat, or entrepreneur you value your location independence. The last thing you want to do is take a trip back home just to sign a document, or have to delay things until you’re home.

With an E Notary, you’ll be able to get your documents notarized fast, remotely, and at a low cost. 

If you’re still learning how to run your business like a nomad, gathering tools and resources like this is beneficial. You’ll create your own toolbox that’ll help you run your business smoothly. For more resources read our blog

How to Get Your Documents Notarized Remotely?

Get your documents notarized in four easy steps.

Step 1: Sign Up for an Account With a Remote Notary

Click here to sign up for a free account with businessanywhere.io

Step 2: Book an Appointment With a Notary Public

Go through the simple process of booking a notary appointment online. Select a time and a date that suits you. That simple!

Step 3: Upload Your Documents

Upload your documents onto the dashboard. Your notary will be able to access them on the other side. This is a simple process that takes less than a minute. 

Step 4: Attend the Appointment

Show up for the arranged appointment. One of the friendly notaries will guide you through the process of notarization. 

Create Your Own Account With an E Notary Today! 

No commitments or membership fees. Start booking appointments whenever you’re ready and only pay for the documents you notarize. 

Click Here to Create Your Free Account.

About Author

Picture of Rick Mak

Rick Mak

Rick Mak is a 30-year veteran businessman, having started, bought, and/or sold more than a dozen companies. He has bachelor's degrees in International Business, Finance, and Economics, with masters in both Entrepreneurship and International Law. He has spoken at hundreds of conferences around the world during his career on entrepreneurship, international tax law, asset protection, and company structure. Business Anywhere Editorial Guidelines

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