How to Notarize Documents in the US: Online or In-Person?
Notarization is a process that helps ensure the authenticity of a document. It’s an important step in any legal process, and it’s often required for many significant documents such as contracts, wills, or other legal instruments. While the process of notarization may seem daunting, it’s essential to ensure that all your legal documents meet the required notary standards. In today’s world, we have the option to notarize documents online or in-person. In this article, we will discuss how to notarize documents in the US, including the legality of online notary services and whether they are available in New York.
How to Notarize Documents in the US
To notarize a document in the US, you must follow specific steps. First, identify a notary public in your area. A notary public is a person authorized by your state to witness the signing of official documents. They certify that the signatory’s identification is true and that the document was signed voluntarily. You can find a notary public by looking up your state’s notary registry or using online resources such as PandaNotary.
Second, you need to provide the notary with the necessary documents. This includes a valid form of identification, the documentation that requires notarization, and any witnesses if necessary. The notary will then verify the signatory’s identity and witness the signing of the document.
Is Online Notary Legal in the US?
Yes, online notaries are legal in the US. Remote online notarization (RON) allows notaries to verify the identity of signatories and witnesses online and to notarize documents remotely. This is convenient, especially with the rise of the pandemic. Remote online notarization helps keep everyone safe by eliminating the need for in-person meetings. Many states have authorized RON, but some have yet to pass legislation legalizing it. Still, RON is widely available in the US and is recognized as a legitimate form of notarization by most states.
Can You Notarize Online in New York?
Yes, you can notarize documents online in New York. The New York state government passed legislation authorizing remote online notarization in April 2020. This legislation temporarily suspends the requirement of physically appearing before a notary public until January 2021. This is useful for residents of New York who require notarization but who cannot attend an in-person notarization meeting. Now, residents can request remote online notarization through qualified third-party providers, including a notary public or an online notary.
In summary, notarizing documents in the US is now more convenient with remote online notarization. While in-person notary services are still available, online notary services can provide more flexibility and convenience. In New York, remote online notarization is authorized, and residents of the state can request it through qualified third-party providers. It’s always essential to ensure that your documents are notarized before submitting them, and now you have the option to do it online. With this information, you are better equipped to make the right choice for your notarization needs.
