The digital age has changed the way we live, work and do business. More and more activities are carried out online in the signing of contracts and even getting loans, due to convenience and efficiency. A major question many individuals would pose is: Is it possible to digitally notarize a document? The answer is yes, but under some conditions that will depend on the laws and regulations of your state.
Do you need to get your real estate paperwork sorted out, you need to sign an affidavit, you need to fill in some financial forms, digital notarization (also referred to as online notary services) is a new, safe, and legally binding method to get the necessary documents completed. We will take a closer look at the mechanisms of digital notarization, its meaning to residents and businesses, and what you need to know in case you are looking to have a notary in NY.
What is Digital Notarization?
Traditionally, notarization consists of visiting a notary public in person, showing a valid form of identification and signing your document before the notary. The notary identifies you, makes sure that you understand what you are performing, and that you are signing willingly.
Under digital notarization, the process occurs virtually. A licensed notary is accessible to you via video conferencing safe platforms rather than sitting in a physical office. You are still demonstrating evidence of identification, but it is electronically verified with the help of a secure ID-checking technology. When the notary has established that you are who you say and that you have signed the document, he or she places a digital notarial seal on your document and this makes it legally binding.
Is Digital Notarization Legal?
Yes, digital notarization is legal in most states, but the regulations are different.Remote online notarization (RON) is permanently permitted in some states, and on the other hand, it is permitted only in certain circumstances.
As an illustration, New York passed a law that formally acknowledges online notarization and, therefore, now a notary in NY can vindicate documents outside his or her jurisdiction. This means people and businesses will no longer need to be physically present to have their papers notarized. Rather, they are able to do the process at the comfort of their home or their office.
It should be mentioned that the notarized documents will be legally binding even in the cases between states, provided they are notarized in accordance with the laws of the state where the notary is commissioned. It is true that a digitally notarized document in New York will be generally valid in most parts of the country.
Advantages of Online Notary Usage.
There are a number of benefits of using an online notarization above traditional in-person notarization:
- Accessibility and Convenience.
You do not need to take an off day, drive or experience long queues. The online notary services allow doing the procedure on your computer, tablet, and even smartphone.
- Time-Saving
The online procedure is effective, and it can be completed within a few minutes of less than 15. It is particularly useful in the case of urgent papers such as loan applications, legal forms or business agreements.
- Security and Compliance
Digital notarization involves encryption, privacy of video and use of digital certificates to prevent fraud. Every session is saved and documented which offers an additional level of protection.
- Interstate Accessibility
An online notary is beneficial to individuals who are not in good shape or those who live in the countryside as they do not have to travel. Traveling, or temporarily living in a different state, you still have the opportunity to be connected with a notary in NY and have the opportunity to notarize your papers and other legal documents.
- Environmentally Friendly
Digital notarization is a green solution as it saves paper usage and the necessity to travel to a notary office by car.
What are the Documents Notarized Digitally?
Online notarizing may be done in several documents, such as:
- Transactions involving real estate (mortgages,notarized online deeds, and leases).
- Sworn statements and affidavits.
- Power of attorney documents
- Financial agreements
- Business contracts
- Consent forms
Nonetheless, there are still a set of specialized documents which may need the use of traditional notarization, including some of the court filings or international forms. Always be sure to check for requirements for your specific document.
Considerations to Make with Digital Notarization.
Although convenient, digital notarization has the following several considerations:
- Importance of State Laws: It is important to always make sure that online notarization is recognized in your state. In case you need a notary in NY, you are in luck, because the New York legislation does not oppose the online notary.
- Technology Requirements: A device that has a camera, a microphone and reliable internet connection will be needed.
- Identification: Be ready to provide valid ID, i.e. driver license or passport in the video session.
- Fees: Online notarization can be a bit more costly than the use of traditional notarization, but it can be convenient and save time.
The Future of Notarization
Digital notarization is becoming a new norm and not an exception as technology keeps improving. Increasing numbers of states are setting laws to enable permanent online notary services to provide more flexibility to individuals and businesses.
Online notarization is offering a convenient, secure, and legally safe option compared to traditional notarization to busy professionals, families, and organizations. Digital notarization facilitates the process, be it in signing a lease deal, estate planning documents, or any other business contracts.
Therefore, can a document be digitally notarized? Absolutely! With the increasing accessibility of online notary services, you will be able to take care of the whole process and do so virtually, safely, and legally. In case you are looking to find an online notary in NY, then you should not worry as online notarization is accepted and available.
Waste no time on paper work. Digital notarization is now present to simplify your life, be it at home, in the office or on the move.
Contact Public Notary Services Today
Require a trusted notary in NY or require a safe online notary service today? Public Notary Services is on hand. We have licensed notaries who make the process fast, convenient and a valid legal matter to be done without the bother to travel and wait in line.
Contact Public Notary Services at this time to book your digital notarization and enjoy the future of safe and convenient notary services.
