Need a Notary? Check out Online Options

Need a Notary? Check out Online OptionsA notary public is one of those professions you might rarely think about until you need one. And every now and then, you do.

A notary public is an individual recognized by the state as an impartial witness to the signing of documents, attesting to their authenticity and verifying the identities of those signing. Notarization is usually required for documents that are officially filed, such as deeds, title transfers, mortgage notes, liens, and court cases.

When you require the services of a notary, you might call someone you know. Or you might visit your bank or credit union. If you’re buying or selling real estate, a representative from the title company will usually come to your home and notarize your closing documents.

In a time of social distancing, not all of those options are available or advisable. Banks, for example, might be limiting their business to auto tellers only. You might not be able to find a notary willing to come into your house, or maybe you wouldn’t want them there.

The good news is that online notarization has been expanding in recent years, and it’s a very viable option when you need a notary and don’t want to leave your home.

It’s not available everywhere

According to DLA PIPER Law firm As of October 2020, there were 28 states with online notarization laws, with more states set to take effect in 2021. Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota*, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington and Wisconsin. [updated October 22]. When the global pandemic struck in early 2020, many states either legislated online notary provisions to take effect sooner or issued executive orders to legally recognize Remote Online Notarization (RON) technology. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have also issued statements to address these issues when purchasing a home.

Some states and government agencies have various restrictions regarding out-of-state notarizations and certain rules for certain types of documents. So RON might not be available for everyone, every time a notary is needed. You can check whether it’s right for your situation at one of the large RON platforms, such as Notarize.com or NotaryCam. The National Notary Association has a “Notary Bulletin” blog on its website that consistently updates states’ emergency and temporary measures for online notarization.

How it works

Having a document notarized online isn’t all that different from doing it in person. The notary and signers meet virtually, via webcam, instead of sitting down at a table or desk together.

Usually, the client uploads the document that needs to be notarized to one of the RON platforms. The platform then provides the software needed for the signer(s) and notary public to “meet” online. The notary, just as would happen in person, then verifies the identities of the signers. They do verification three ways:

  1. Knowledge-based (asking a set of questions)
  2. Credential Analysis (photo ID is scanned by the signer and examined)
  3. Remote presentation (photo ID is viewed via webcam)

Most RON laws require all three forms of verification. Once the signer’s identity is verified, both they and the notary electronically sign the document, and the notary attaches an electronic seal to it. It then may be accessed by the signers and shared with third parties.

Security and privacy

Notaries who do online signings must record a journal entry for each one and create an audiovisual recording of the proceedings. If a document is ever challenged in court, the proof of signing is vital. In some cases, the RON platform the notary uses will store the journal entries and recordings.

Of course, electronically storing people’s information is going to raise some concerns. Opponents of online notarization note that a data breach could result in the vulnerability of personal information. Meanwhile, online notary services and their proponents say they are committed to security and privacy and keep on file only as much personal information as required by law.

Online Notarization Services you can use

There are many services online that you can use but they vary depending on your states law. We recommend doing a Google Search for Online Notarization Services and looking at the individual services to find the one that best suits your needs!

The bottom line

Social distancing can disrupt many parts of people’s lives, including tasks that many have done exclusively in person before. Fortunately, technology and the law have allowed for notary public services to move online in many cases, eliminating the need for face-to-face contact.

Are You Thinking of Buying a Home in Dubois County?

Use our site to search homes for sale in Jasper, Dubois, Spencer, Martin and Davis counties and all of our surrounding areas. Unlike the “big name” sites out there, at Sell 4 Free Welsh Realty our site is directly connected to our local MLS and is updated with new homes every hour. By signing up for New Listing alerts you can stay on top of the newest homes for sale and get price change alerts so you can stay ahead of other buyers and beat them to the hottest deals!

Start your Home Search now

Popular Jasper Indiana Home Searches:

Newest Homes for Sale in Dubois County

View the newest homes listed in Dubois County in the last 10 days:

Looking for a new home with lots of living space? This one and a half story 5 bedroom brick home offers just that! Located in the heart of Ireland, you will get four city lots totaling just under a half acre with plenty of room for a detached garage. The home has original hardwood floors throughout the main and upper levels that have just been resealed. The main level includes two bedrooms, a full bathroom, formal dining room, living room with wood burning fireplace and large kitchen. Upstairs, you will find another full bathroom and 3 additional bedrooms including one bedroom that is 21' x 22', perfect for a master. Plenty of storage space with two of the bedrooms having walk-in closets, the full basement and access to the attic from the upper level. This home has been used as a rental for years and has the potential to be another rental home, duplex or large home for a growing family. This home will need some TLC which will go a long way! $179,000 Active

5029 W State Road 56 Jasper, Indiana

5 Beds 2 Baths 2,590 SqFt 0.460 Acres

Listing courtesy of Gina Mehringer from F.C. TUCKER EMGE REALTORS.

Own this conveniently located home on the North side of Jasper. It is situated at the end of a cul-de-sac and is close to shopping centers, restaurants and schools. On the main floor you have the open concept - kitchen, dining room and living room. The main floor has a master bedroom and there are two more bedrooms on the second floor. One of those bedrooms is also a master bedroom. In the basement there is another room being used as a bedroom. This would make a nice office or storage space! Plenty of bathrooms to accommodate this more than 1,900 sq ft home. You also have a loft and recreation room for entertaining. The second lot which is west of the home is maintained by the owner. The owner does not pay any property taxes on this lot. This is your chance to own a spacious home which can be tailored to your needs! $279,900 Active

4180 Timberpoint Court Jasper, Indiana

3 Beds 5 Baths 2,867 SqFt 0.800 Acres

Listing courtesy of Sheryl Sendelweck from RE/MAX Local.

Come take a look at this beautiful home located near Huntingburg City Park! This home has many updated features including a renovated kitchen and dining room, a new roof and furnace replaced in 2019, and all new paint throughout the home. There is a spacious two car garage to fit all your needs. The yard has plenty of room for animals or kids to play! This home was built in the early 1900s but, has a modern feel. You don't want to miss out on this opportunity!! $139,000 Active

612 E 1st Street Huntingburg, Indiana

3 Beds 3 Baths 1,900 SqFt 0.187 Acres

Listing courtesy of Paige McCarty from Carpenter Realty LLC.