As you know, LiveNotary was acquired by PandaDoc.

PandaDoc is a great solution for small businesses looking to utilize an entire workflow of document creation and execution. In fact, it has over 35,000 customers and is a tech unicorn.

LiveNotary has been an amazing platform that has been used to perform over 10,000 notarial transactions, with over 20,000 signers and participants.

With that, we are a small team, and our resources can only be dedicated towards one thing, and we are making a very tough decision.

As of April 15th, 2022 we will be no longer be supporting LiveNotary, and you will no longer be able to perform remote online notarization transactions.

Please note: we will keep all logins available and online so that you can access your journal. Per state guidance, we will keep this available for a period of 10 years.

The post Winding Down LiveNotary appeared first on LiveNotary Blog.

Index:

1. What is online notarization?
2. Is online notarization legal in Colorado?
3. How does online notarization work in Colorado?
4. What do I need to notarize a document online in Colorado?
5. Online notary in Colorado
6. FAQ

What is online notarization?

Remote online notarization (RON) is a form of notarization carried out entirely online using audio-visual technology and electronic forms. This is different from traditional notarization services, where document signers appear in person before a notary to complete a signature. Online notarization allows both notaries and document signers to complete a notarization act within minutes from wherever they happen to be located. 

It eliminates the inconvenience of having to coordinate a place and time to meet with a notary. It is essential to be aware that RON law varies state-by-state, with different requirements and regulations to be considered valid.  

Is online notarization legal in Colorado?

Yes. Notaries who are commissioned to practice online can perform Remote Online Notarization (RON) services in Colorado.

Remote Online Notarization (RON) law recently became effective in Colorado on December 31, 2020. Senate Bill 20-096 made the practice legal after many notaries in the state had spent the preceding year providing remote online notarization services under temporary authorization, due to COVID-19. 

In addition to a traditional notary commission, notaries need to pass a RON training course and exam while also applying for a separate online notary commission. 

How does online notarization work in Colorado?

In order to receive online notarization services in the state of Colorado, there are certain requirements that must be met to be considered valid.

What types of notarizations are permitted online in Colorado?

Remote online notaries in Colorado are able to notarize any documents that are normally permitted under the state’s Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts (RULONA). These notarial acts include notarizing the following types of documents:

– Taking acknowledgments: An official acknowledgment from a signer to a notary that a document has been willingly signed. 

– Witnessing signatures: A notary appears to verify the identity of a document signer and witness the signing.

– Taking verification on an oath or affirmation: A notary witnesses an oath or affirmation that the contents of the document being signed are true.

– Certifying a copy of a record: A notary certifies that a copy of a document is true and accurate.

Requirements for Remote Online Notarization (RON) in Colorado

In addition to obtaining a traditional notary commission, notaries need to take a specialized remote notarization training course. Upon finishing the course, they need to pass an exam to receive a certification of completion. Proof of this certification will be required at the time of their RON application. 

To prevent fraud and ensure a notarization’s validity online, remote notaries in Colorado will need to contract with an approved RON technology provider. Before meeting with notaries using audio-visual technology, signers must go through an identity verification process. This will include passing through a knowledge-based authentication (KBA) and having their documents analyzed for fraud. The notary will then confirm the identity of the signer a third time when they meet online for the signing. 

The state of Colorado requires that notaries use one of their approved platforms to perform the notarial act. Some of the companies that offer these platforms for RON services include LiveNotary, Digital Delivery, NotaryCam and Notarize.

The Secretary Of State requires that online notaries disclose to signers that the notarization act will be recorded and saved. The signers will then have to consent to both conditions. At the time of the notarial act, the notary is required to recite the following information to be recorded and saved:

– Their name.

– The date and time that the notarization is taking place.

– A description of the notarization act taking place.

– The names of the signers, as well as any witnesses.

– The method by which the notary has verified the signer’s identities. 

At the time of the signing, signers must declare for the record that their signature was knowingly and voluntarily made.

What do I need to notarize a document online in Colorado?

To have a document notarized in Colorado, there are a series of steps you will have to follow to ensure the notarization is valid. You should first contact your county recorder to guarantee that they accept electronically signed and notarized documents. 

Using an online notary is quicker and cheaper than using traditional notary services. It also provides a greater level of security against fraud protection. Let’s take a look at the process in more detail to better understand these benefits.

How to have documents signed and sealed online

At the time of the document signing, the signers and the notary will appear on screen together via a two-way audio-visual internet connection. The document that will be signed is also displayed on the screen for all parties to see. At this time, the signers will review the documents before applying an electronically-created signature. 

Next, the notary will apply their own electronic signature, along with an electronic seal and their digital certificate. This certificate is a unique piece of code that will attach to the notarized document, verifying the notarization and providing a layer of tamper-proof security. 

Colorado requirements for when appearing before an online notary

Online notarization makes it easier than ever to appear before a notary. Rather than having to schedule a place and time to meet with a traditional or mobile notary service in advance, the notary and signers can all be in different locations. 

While an online notary in Colorado is required to perform their duties within the state boundaries, the signers can appear for the notarization from anywhere in the world. By allowing signers and notaries to appear via video conference for a notarization, RON makes appearing faster, safer, and easier than traditional notarization.  

Remote Online Notarization (RON) helps protect your document 

Remote online notarization is the most secure form of notarization. This is because with online notarization the signer’s identities are verified using a knowledge-based authentication system. On top of this, the online notarization platform will perform an in-depth analysis of the signer’s identification and documents to identify fraud. 

In addition to verifying the signer’s identities, the entire notarization process will be recorded and stored. In Colorado, this record must be securely stored and accessible to all parties for a minimum of ten years. This detailed record ensures that if any disputes arise down the road, every bit of information will be available for review. 

Finally, the digital seal and certificate provided by the online notary ensure that the signed document is sealed with a tamper-proof code. This code identifies and tracks any unauthorized changes made to the document so that any disputes may be easily resolved.  

Online notary in Colorado

If you are looking for an online notary service in Colorado, LiveNotary can support you with a fast, secure, and 100% state-compliant solution for Remote Online Notarization that won’t break your bank.

FAQ

Disclaimer

The contents of this website are intended to convey general information only and not to provide legal advice or opinions. The information presented on this website may not reflect the most current legal developments. No action should be taken in reliance on the information contained on this website, and we disclaim all liability in respect to actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the contents of this site to the fullest extent permitted by law. An attorney should be contacted for advice on specific legal issues and jurisdictions.

The post <h1>Online notary in Colorado</h1> appeared first on LiveNotary Blog.

Purchasing a new home is one of the most exciting things you will ever do. To get there, you must first go through the process of applying for a mortgage. To many, this is a long and daunting step that they dread.  In truth, this process is relatively simple if you are prepared. Part of being prepared involves being informed and knowing what questions to ask when applying for a mortgage. 

This guide gives you a better understanding of the mortgage application process and helps you become familiar with the documents you will need to have prepared throughout. Since many of these documents will need to be signed and legally transferred, we will focus our attention on documents that require notarization. Having a notarization plan in advance will save you a lot of time and effort throughout the home buying process. With access to Remote Online Notarization (RON), this has never been easier.

Read on as we take a look at everything you need to know about the mortgage application process and how you can make sure you have everything you need. 

Index:

1. What’s the mortgage application process like?

2. What documents do I need to apply for a mortgage?

3. Which documents need to be notarized?

4. How do I get my mortgage documents notarized?

5. How can LiveNotary help?

What’s the mortgage application process like?

Applying for a mortgage can seem like an intimidating process, especially for first-time homebuyers. Having an understanding of what that process looks like before starting can be a significant advantage. It allows you to make sure you have everything you need in place so that the process goes smoothly. It will also help you be prepared if you have any questions to ask when applying for a mortgage to ultimately make the best decision. 

The mortgage process can generally be broken down into seven stages:

1. Determine how much you can afford

Before you begin the mortgage loan process, you need to determine how much you can realistically afford. The emphasis here is on remaining realistic. 

This is not a matter of determining the absolute highest home purchase price that you can afford. Instead, you should be thinking about how much you can reasonably afford to pay each month. From there, you can start adding on factors such as current interest rates and any other housing costs to determine how much you can afford. 

2. Pre-approval

Getting a pre-approval for your mortgage loan will make you more attractive to a seller once you’ve found a home you like. It will also help ensure the overall mortgage loan process goes as smoothly as possible. 

A pre-approval letter from a mortgage lender states that they have already agreed to lend you a predetermined amount of money based on your personal details such as income, savings and credit. These letters are vetted and verified and tell a seller that you are indeed ready and able to purchase a home.

3. Finding a home and making an offer

Now that you know how much you can generally afford to purchase, you can finally search for a home. This will involve visiting houses until you find one that you want to make an offer on.

When you are ready, you and your real estate agent will begin to structure the offer. Your agent will handle the majority of this part, as they will know the ins and outs of how to structure your offer. You will also pay a small earnest money deposit at this point in order to secure your offer as you begin the purchasing process. 

4. Home inspection

Once the offer you made has been accepted, the next step is a home inspection. A home inspection will help you get a complete picture of the house’s condition beyond what meets the eye. This includes evaluating the home’s structure, foundation, roofing, plumbing, electrical or any potential issues. 

This is an essential step for the buyer as it will tell you how much they need to spend on repairs and updates. The extent and estimated cost of these repairs can be used as negotiation points to offset some of the purchase prices. 

5. Home appraisal 

The next step involves having an independent appraiser evaluate and estimate the value of the home. The appraisal serves two purposes. The first is to confirm to the buyer that the home is worth the price they are paying. The second reason is that for a loan agreement to be approved, its appraised price must match the contracted purchase price. 

6. Mortgage processing and underwriting 

At this stage, you will have completed the application on your end. Once the application is submitted, it must then be processed. 

Processing involves a final verification of the documents and records you have submitted with the application. Once this is all verified, the application is sent to an underwriter. In simple terms, an underwriter’s job is to comb over every little fine detail of the application to make sure everything is correct. 

During this process, an underwriter may contact you with questions about the application. These should be responded to promptly, so you don’t hold up the process.

7. Closing day

Reaching closing day means that you successfully made it through the mortgage application process — congrats! When you have been approved, the lender will send a packet of closing documents for you to sign and close the deal. 

This will have you sign many documents, but among the most important will be your closing disclosure. It should look nearly identical to the loan estimate that you received. This document confirms the costs that come with your agreement.  

What documents do I need to apply for a mortgage?

So far, we have discussed the process involved with applying for a mortgage, but you may have questions about which documents will be required along the way. While there will probably be a good handful, knowing in advance what you will likely need can help you begin preparing months ahead of time.

Here are some of the most common types of documents you will want to have ready to go in order and why they are helpful.

Tax returns

Tax returns help to prove to a lender that your income is what you say it is, and that is consistent over time. Typically you will want to provide a minimum of 1-2 years worth of consistent tax returns. Consistent returns without any dramatic fluctuations in income are what a lender is looking for. 

They will most likely have you sign a Form 4605-T which allows the lender to request access to your tax returns directly from the IRS.

Pay-stubs/ W2’s

While tax returns help provide lenders with your overall long-term financial situation, pay-stubs provide a look at your current earnings. If you are unemployed or have different sources of income, other types of proof of income that may be required include direct deposit records or 1099 forms.   

Photo ID

As with any major financial dealing, you will need some sort of photo proof that you are who you say you are. This could include a driver’s license, state ID, passport, company-issued ID or other types of official identification. 

Bank statements/ assets

A lender would want to review bank statements to ensure that you would be able to still make some payments in case of an emergency or change of circumstances. The best way to do this is to ensure that you have at least a few months’ worth of back payments in your account for some months prior to your application. Large quantities of money that mysteriously show up in your account overnight are a red flag to lenders that you may be dishonest about your finances to secure a better rate. 

The lenders will also look at any assets you have, such as any insurance you pay for and any investments you may have. 

Credit history

Credit history is important to lenders as it shows how you have handled any previous credit loans. Any marks against your history, such as missed payments or foreclosure, will work against you. It may be beneficial to draft a letter to explain these negative items.

Many lenders are willing to overlook one-time circumstances if everything else on your application looks good. They are much less likely to be lenient with a lendee who has a history of delinquent credit history.   

Which documents need to be notarized?

When you are in the process of signing your closing disclosure, certain documents will require notarization. Some of the documents include:

– Mortgage: This is the actual mortgage document itself and is one of the most important documents you will sign. Without notarization, the document will not be considered valid. 

– Deed of trust: This document details the agreement between the borrower and the lender, as well as its terms. 

– Subordination agreement: A subordination agreement ranks the debts taken on in order of priority. This is done in case the borrower goes through a foreclosure or bankruptcy. 

– Various affidavits: There are a handful of affidavits you will sign. These are certifications that the documents and signers are valid.  

– Promissory or Real Estate Note: A promissory note simply details how much you have borrowed and the terms on which you have agreed to pay it back.

– Truth in lending disclosure statement: This breaks down all of the costs associated with your loan.

– Notice of right to cancel: This document allows borrowers a certain period of time to reverse their decision after signing the documents. Usually, the period is three days. This is to allow borrowers a period to review and consider the terms of their loan agreement in detail. 

How do I get my mortgage documents notarized?

There are three main ways that you can get a document notarized. These three forms of document notarization include:

– Walk-in notaries: This type of notary works out of an office, which you go to for services.

– Traveling/ mobile notaries: You pay a traveling notary to come to your location on a predetermined day and time. 

– Remote Online Notarization (RON): Remote Online Notarization is a service where the signers of a document appear before a notary using online, audio-visual technology to provide notarization services. This can be used with greater flexibility than more traditional notarization services.  

While walk-in and mobile notarization services are more familiar to some people, RON is quickly becoming the preference for businesses and individuals who require notarization services without compromise. Rather than having to schedule a place and time to meet or go out of your way to travel to a notary, RON helps you get the services you need without any of the cost or hassle. 

The recent COVID-19 pandemic has posed many issues and interruptions for walk-in and mobile notaries due to social distancing restraints. This has been the deciding factor for many who have recently switched to RON for uninterrupted access to notarization services. 

After all, you don’t want to be waiting on the keys to your brand new home any longer than you have to. 

How can LiveNotary help?

Applying for a mortgage loan is a lot of work. Throughout the process, you will be signing a lot of paperwork, and as such, you will require notarization.

LiveNotary provides a reliable, easy-to-use Remote Online Notarization Platform for Mortgages and a nationwide network of experienced, commissioned notaries ready to meet the specific needs of our partners and their clients.

To learn more about how LiveNotary can help you, request a demo.

The post <h1>Questions to ask when applying for a mortgage</h1> appeared first on LiveNotary Blog.

Most of the time, legal documents require more than just a simple signature to be considered legitimate. For many important legal or financial documents, a witness must be present at the time of signing to ensure the identity of the signers. Though notary and witness services do serve similar purposes (and occasionally overlap with each other), serving as a witness has its own unique set of requirements. 

In this blog, we will take a look at why and when a witness is required and the different kinds of witnesses.

Index:

1. What is a witness, and what do they do?
2. When do you need a witness?
3. The 5 different types of witnesses
4. Can a notary be a witness?
5. How to notarize documents during COVID-19

What is a witness, and what do they do?

A witness is a person who is present to observe the signing of a legal document. Out of necessity, they are neutral third-party observers of the signing. This means they have no relation to the signing parties and no connection to the transaction. A witness will provide a signature as well to verify the authenticity of the signing. 

A witness’s primary role is to confirm the identities of the signing parties and the validity of the signing. This is necessary in case there is ever a dispute with the document. As a neutral third party, witnesses provide a necessary level of credibility to ensure that the document is recognized and legally enforceable. 

There are a few different types of witnesses you should be aware of, which we will take a more in-depth look at below. Before we get to that, let’s first get a better understanding of what types of documents typically require notary and witness services.

When do you need a witness?

Not every document signing requires a witness, and in fact, many do not. Signatures that do require a witness are usually legal or financial forms, such as:

– Last will and testament: Legal documents which detail the intended distribution of assets from an estate.

– Divorce decrees: A document issued by a court granting a divorce.

– General contracts: Documentation of an agreement or promise which is enforceable by law.

– Mortgage agreements: A document that specifies your mortgage loan terms and agreements.

– Property deeds: Documents that are used to transfer ownership of real property from seller to buyer. 

Documents that require a witness signature have different requirements depending on the jurisdiction they are in. For instance, some signings may require multiple witnesses to be present. There are also different types of witnesses that are necessary depending on the situation. Check these requirements to ensure the validity of your signature. 

The 5 different types of witnesses

Different types of documents may have specific witness requirements. These requirements vary by state and jurisdiction, as can the stipulations for who qualifies to be a witness. To give you a better understanding of how and why this works, let’s check out the different types of witnesses you may require.

1. Credible identifying witness

A credible identifying witness is an individual who personally knows a signer and vouches for their identity. This is usually needed in cases where a signer does not have a satisfactory form of personal identification. A credible identifying witness will typically be someone who knows a signer personally and is willing to confirm their identity under oath.

Many jurisdictions require that the credible identifying witness personally know the notary as well. The requirements for fulfilling this duty can vary greatly depending on where you are located. Some states have laws restricting credible identifying witnesses who are connected to or stand to gain from a transaction.   

2. Document witness

A document witness is an individual or notary who is asked to serve as a witness to a document signing. This specific type of witness usually refers explicitly to an acting notary who has also been asked to serve as a witness. This means that in addition to their official notarization duties, they serve as a witness as a private individual.

If that sounds a little murky to you, you aren’t alone. Many jurisdictions do not allow for a notary to also serve as a witness because of the potential for a conflict of interest to arise. Even where it is technically legal, it is generally considered bad practice for a notary to fulfill both duties.

It is best to ensure that a witness is an entirely neutral third party, if possible. 

3. Signature witness

A signature witness is unique because it is one of the only types of witnessing that is considered an official notarial act. A signature witness is a notary (or other authorized officer) that personally verifies the signer’s identity while obtaining the signature. The document must be signed in the presence of the notary at the same time as identity verification. 

This type of witness is only allowed in certain jurisdictions and situations. It’s important to note that this is different from when a notary is asked to serve as a witness in a non-notarial capacity (see document witness above).  

4. Subscribing witness

A subscribing witness essentially acts as a proxy on behalf of the signer. Their job is to physically watch the signing of a document and then appear before a notary on the signer’s behalf. The requirement for being a subscribing witness is that the witness is present for the actual signing of the document or for the signer to confirm that the signature is theirs.

A subscribing witness is required when a signer is unable to appear before a notary for whatever reason. This type of witness has the highest potential for fraud. Because of this, many jurisdictions limit how and when this type of witness may be permitted. 

5. Signature by mark witness

When a document signer is unable to sign their name, a signature by mark witness is required. If, for example, an individual is only able to sign with an “X” instead of a name, the signature will need to be verified. 

A signature by mark witness needs to be present when the signer makes their mark. 

Can a notary be a witness?

It is essential to clarify that notary and witness services are usually two separate things. Though there is occasionally overlap, the difference between a witness and notary comes down to the extent of their respective duties. A notary’s job is to ensure that the document is valid and that the signing is carried out legally. Notaries are public officials with a certain level of authority conferred by the state they operate in. 

On the other hand, witnesses are not necessarily public officials, and usually, their role in document signing is limited. There are few requirements for many types of witnesses, and generally, anyone of sound mind over the age of 18 can serve one. Most witnesses do not need to understand the contents of the document or any details of the proceedings. Their primary job is simply to observe the signing and confirm the signing parties are who they say they are. 

Whether or not a notary can serve as a witness depends on the jurisdiction they are serving in and the type of witness required. Some states allow a notary to serve as a witness to a document they are notarizing, while others do not. Due to the potential conflict of interest, notaries usually serve one role or the other, but not both simultaneously.  

How to notarize documents during COVID-19

Before COVID-19, the shift towards making notary and witness services more accessible online was already underway. As the pandemic had many businesses shuttered for months, the need for these services continued. The demand was so overwhelming that it prompted a new senate bill called the SECURE Act, which aims to expand online access to these services. 

Where many walk-in, traveling and mobile notary and witness services struggled to keep up, more people began to trust and embrace remote online notarization (RON) services. Using a RON allows you to obtain legal notarization services from anywhere within minutes. More than that, it saves you time and money. Learn how here.

Ultimately RON services have allowed individuals and businesses to keep the wheel turning despite the pandemic’s interruption to our everyday lives. As legislation continues to favor RON and people discover how easy it is to use, we will likely begin to see this become the new norm for notarization and witness services 

Get started with remote online notarization with LiveNotary.com.

The post <h1>Online notary and witness services explained</h1> appeared first on LiveNotary Blog.

Looking for a notary near you? Find out how remote online notarization (RON) can save you time and money

If you are looking for reliable and convenient notary services near you, you’ve probably noticed that there is no shortage of options. While many claim to offer the best solutions for your needs, remote online notarization (RON) can help you effortlessly save time and money.

To get a better sense of these benefits, let’s take an in-depth look at some of the considerations you will want to keep in mind when determining which notary service is right for you.

Index:

1. When do you need a notary?
2. Where to begin your search
3. How to choose a notary service that works for me
4. The 3 types of notarization services
5. The advantages of Remote Online Notarization
6. How COVID-19 affected access to notarization services

When do you need a notary?

Any time you sign a self-authorizing legal document, you will need a notary to witness the signing. Notaries primarily serve to ensure the signee is who they say they are and signing of their own free will. 

In other words, a notary is there to ensure your transaction or agreement is both legally binding and protected against fraud or identity theft. Not all important documents will need to be notarized, but some that generally do include:

– Affidavits: A written way of swearing under oath to tell the truth, as you would in a courtroom.

– Construction and loan agreements: A written, detailed agreement of the terms you may enter into.

– Wills and trusts: Legal documents which detail the intended distribution of assets from an estate.

– Advance medical directive: These are pre-determined treatment preferences and designation of a surrogate.

– Property deeds: Documents that are used to transfer ownership of real property from seller to buyer. 

– Custody and guardianship agreements: Forms that detail one’s custody rights over a child, as determined by a court.

– Executorships: This is a way to determine who will execute one’s will/ trust once they are deceased. 

– Court documents: Documents and other materials filed in relation to a legal case.

Notarization is essential when signing many documents because it helps protect all involved parties against unnecessary risk and fraud. While some documents require notarization, it is good practice to consider notarizing anytime you need to ensure the integrity of your transaction.

Where to begin your search

Finding a notary should be a straightforward task. Back in the days when all you had to do was crack open a phone book, it indeed was. These days, even a cursory Google search may not be as simple as it seems unless you know exactly what you’re looking for. 

Proximity plays a significant role in determining how to find a notary near you. If you only find yourself occasionally needing document notarization, the more traditional options like walk-in and traveling notaries may suffice. If you require frequent notarization, as businesses often do, a remote online notary could likely save you a lot of effort and money.

How to choose a notary service that works for me

For many, choosing a notary comes down to three simple factors: price, convenience and speed, meeting as many of their requirements with these factors as possible. 

To find a notary, you usually face the dilemma of deciding which factors to prioritize most. Let’s say, for instance, that you are in a rush and need a same-day notary. You could probably find a local service, but you will likely pay a premium fee for the quick turnaround time. On top of that, there’s no guarantee the notary service will be close enough to be considered convenient or even reasonable.

This kind of compromise may not be a big deal to you if you only require occasional notarization. On the other hand, if you’re running a business or otherwise need frequent notarization, this can be a massive drawback. 

When choosing a notary service that is right for you, knowing where you cannot compromise is critical. Other than that, a simple understanding of how each of the three types of notarization services works can help you narrow it down pretty quickly.

Let’s take a brief look at how their services operate and how they may affect your needs.

The 3 types of notarization services

1. Walk-in notary

When we talk about walk-in notaries, we are talking about the traditional notary experience that many people are familiar with. These usually are not notary-specific storefronts or businesses. Instead, most of the time, notarization is a service that is offered as an extension of other services a company offers. 

Pros: 

– They are commonly found in businesses such as banks, courthouses, law offices, shipping stores, etc.

– You can walk in and request a notary service when you are ready to.

Cons: 

– You will have to do some research to find what businesses offer notarization.

– You are limited to their business hours.

– Many places require you to be an existing customer or member of their institution to use their notarization services.

– COVID-19 has resulted in many businesses cutting back on non-essential services and business hours. This has resulted in fewer available options and potentially puts you at risk of exposure to the virus.

– Shifting COVID-19 restrictions and guidelines may interfere with in-person notarization appointments.   

2. Traveling and mobile notary

Since a traveling notary (often referred to interchangeably as a “mobile” notary) comes to you, you can bet you will likely pay for the convenience. Even though a mobile notary can save you the time and hassle of traveling to get your documents notarized, you are still at several key disadvantages. 

Pros: 

– You can have your documents notarized at your own convenience and from the comfort of your own home or office. 

Cons: 

– Appointments must be scheduled in advance, which limits the potential for rush notarization. 

– You are at the mercy of the traveling notaries availability

– You pay a premium fee for the convenience of them coming to you.

– Mobile notaries may not always be available near you. 

– This is the slowest type of notarization service.

– Shifting COVID-19 restrictions and guidelines may interfere with in-person notarization appointments. 

3. Remote Online Notarization (RON)

You may have noticed by this point that not only is remote online notarization simple and easy to use, but it also solves many of the issues associated with traditional notarization methods. We already know that the right notary is the one that forces you to compromise as little as possible. For many individuals and businesses, RON eliminates the necessity for compromise altogether. 

Pros: 

– Enjoy increased transaction security thanks to multi-factor identity verification.

– You avoid paying for any excessive fees or services

– You can get your documents notarized at any time, within minutes. 

– Detailed records of your notarization will be stored, should you ever need them. 

– You won’t have to worry about meeting in-person or COVID-19 restrictions. It’s 100% online

The advantages of Remote Online Notarization

When you evaluate the pros and cons of the different types of notary services, the benefits of using a remote online notary far outweigh any cons. At LiveNotary, we are proud to provide a convenient, reliable and secure platform to connect with clients.

When you work with us, you can ensure that our nationwide network of experienced commissioned notaries provides their clients with 24/7 access to our full range of notary services and support. We cater to a range of professions and guarantee that we can help you get your documents signed as painlessly as possible. 

To learn more about how LiveNotary can help you, request a demo today.

How COVID-19 affected access to notarization services

While COVID-19 seemingly brought the world to a halt, the need for notarization services did not cease. In fact, in 2020, demand for notary services increased a whopping 1,750%! Even as folks were staying home, low-interest rates and fluctuating financial situations of all kinds overwhelmed notaries for a period of time.

While many walk-in, traveling and mobile notary services struggled to keep up pace due to restricted in-person interactions, remote online notarization services were able to step in and fill the gap. Not only did the pandemic expose the limitations of in-person notarization, but it also highlighted how effective and convenient RON could be.  

Before the pandemic, people in need of notarization services were either unaware or unsure of using a remote online notary. Since then, many have discovered how easy and secure RON can be when compared with in-person notarization.

Before deciding which of these notary service options will work best for you, you should be aware of the advantages and limitations associated with each.

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eNotes, or electronic promissory notes, play a big role in remote online notarizations (RON) – and a variety of industries. 

So, here’s a crash course on the subject!

You’ll find out: 

1. What are eNotes
2. How eNotes work and why they’re important
3. How professionals benefit from eNotary services
4. Legal considerations
5. The eNotary service for your needs
6. Wrapping up
7. FAQ

What are eNotes?

eNotes are electronic promissory notes, legal documents that require borrowers to pay as promised. Promissory = promise. So when you sign a promissory note as a borrower, it means you’re legally obligated to pay the lender a certain amount at a certain time. It also means you understand and agree to all of the loan’s terms. So most major loans need promissory notes to make them binding – whether for tuition, a first-time mortgage or second home, a car, or something else. If someone breaches the terms of an eNote, they might face foreclosure, repossession, or other tough consequences. 

The world of eNotes, explained

Like the eNotary market at large, eNotes make it possible to continue with business as usual when you can’t meet face-to-face. They’re not new, but the global coronavirus pandemic vastly increased their use. 

In fact, data from the Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems – MERS® eRegistry show a wild year-over-year leap: 127,178 eNotes were created in 2019, but an incredible 462,671 were formed in 2020! 

The use of RON also spiked dramatically. According to a survey of eNotary providers by the American Land Title Association (ALTA), the organization discovered a 547% increase in eNotarizations in 2020, over 2019. 

eNotes can help you prevent disruptions in your business while reducing the risk of loss, damage and human error.

How eNotes work

Electronic promissory notes include the names of the lender and borrower, the loan amount, the start date of the loan, payment options and information (including the amount and frequency of payments), and the date the loan should be paid in full. Sometimes eNotes have special requirements, like including a clause that reads you’re okay with using digital notes.

eNotes are signed and sealed in real-time, and created as scam and tamper-proof MISMO SMART Doc® XML files. This ensures they’re as legally binding as their paper counterparts. It also means no one can make unauthorized changes, unlike easy-to-edit JPEGs and PDFs. 

Of course, storage is a big concern too. That’s why eNotes are kept in secure data warehouses called eVaults, and eNote transactions are recorded in an authorized eRegistry, like MERS® eRegistry for the mortgage industry.

So for home sales online, think: eNotes > eVaults > MERS® eRegistry 

Fun fact: SMART is an acronym. 

Securable ◦ Manageable ◦ Archivable ◦ Retrievable ◦ Transferable

Blockchain technology, inherently tamper-proof with transparent tracking, makes it an excellent prospect for the future of eNote storage. 

Let’s say you’re storing an eNote. It would be stored even more securely because it would be encrypted so only you could read it, using your encryption key. And with decentralized storage, your file would be basically broken up into pieces through a process called sharding. It saves horizontal strips of your file on different servers so it’s never saved all in one place. Blockchain technology presents an incredible opportunity for growth with transparent costs and tighter security.

How professionals benefit from eNotary services

If you ever work with an eNotary, they’ll use tools like digital audio and video conferencing so you can collaborate while staying compliant, from afar. The process is virtually the same (ahem, pun intended), but you’ll get digital seals and certificates while saving a lot of time.

eNotary services are probably a great fit for your business. Nearly everyone needs one, at some point or another–and some need them on a regular basis. 

If you’re in one of the industries or careers below, you’ll probably need them all the time:

– If you’re in banking, you might use them for leases, loans, credit card applications, mortgages, digital onboarding and more.

– Financial planners, investment advisers and securities brokers need eNotarizations for everyday agreements and disclosures. They can also buy mortgages on the secondary market. These eClosings call for the transfers of eNotes from their original owners. 

– Car dealers use electronic notarizations for leases, financing loans, bills of sale and car titles.

– RON are essential for the real estate industry. You might be surprised to learn how many homes are sold electronically, some sight unseen! Real estate agencies, mortgage servicers, and title companies use them for mortgages, deeds, and affidavits– they’re pivotal for warehouse lenders too. Landlords also use them for leases and lease guarantor forms.

– Attorneys and law firms use them for contracts, retention, fee and other pricing agreements, court documents, powers of attorney, and what seems like countless other occasions.

– Government agencies use eNotary services for applications, tax forms, loan and grant applications, and digital onboarding. 

– Insurance agents use electronic notaries to fast-track policy agreements, policy renewals, and claims processing.

– Wholesale businesses, retailers, and manufacturers are usually geographically scattered. RON help them get signatures and verifications for purchase orders, licensing agreements, and non-disclosure agreements without excessive travel.

– Finally, the educational sector uses these services all the time. Colleges, universities, student loan servicers, and education-specific government agencies use eNotary services for admissions onboarding and key financial aid and student loan applications.

– Electronic notary services bring greater speed, ease, and convenience to the traditional verification process. 

Use eNotes to:

– Reduce paper waste

– Reduce or eliminate business travel

– Reduce the risk of error (miscommunication happens)

– Save money via reduced printing and transportation costs

– Complete transactions faster and work more efficiently

– Share document previews before appointments for meeting prep or to answer questions or concerns in advance

Legal considerations

Electronic promissory notes are only legally binding when they’re treated like traditional paper notes. In the eyes of the law, eNotes have to align with the legal promissory note definition. 

They should meet this criteria too:

– There’s a single, authoritative copy

– The copy indicates who controls it

– The person who controls it usually has to have it in their possession 

– Any copies should be clearly marked as such – and records should be kept (who received a copy and when, e.g. when a borrower receives a copy)

– If there’s an authorized change of ownership, like transferring a mortgage from a servicer to a buyer on the secondary market, the new owner needs to be the new, exclusive owner of the eNote and have it in their possession, accessible from an eVault

Like eNotary services, there’s a little variation when it comes to legality from state to state. American eNotes generally fall under two domains – the Uniform Electronic Transaction Act (UETA) or the Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act (E-SIGN). 

Created in 1999, the UETA was an effort to get individual states to give eBusiness the okay. Then in 2000, Congress passed a federal initiative, E-SIGN. Together they make different aspects of eBusiness, such as eNotes, eNotarizations, and eSignatures widely legal across the country and in U.S. territories. 

Then it gets a little tricky. 

A few states and territories came up with eSignature laws of their own, while others cherry-picked sections of the UETA and E-SIGN. 

For example, New York skipped the UETA to come up with their own act, the Electronic Signatures and Records Act (ERSA). It doesn’t allow eSignatures for wills, trusts, do-not-resuscitate orders, negotiable instruments, (certain types of contracts) and other transactions that give a person or a company a title. 

As of January 2020, Florida is one of only a few states allowing eSignatures and eNotarizations for wills. The Sunshine State’s new law is more comprehensive than E-SIGN; E-SIGN exceptions include wills, testamentary trusts, and divorce and adoption paperwork.

And individual counties have a say too! 

Thankfully, eNotary services are accepted in most places in the U.S. – and federal acts make eNotes, eSignatures, and other eDocumentations legally recognized in every state. Let’s say you get an eNotarization in Texas. That notarization will be legally recognized and binding in every county and state in the country, regardless of local regulations.

LiveNotary: The eNotary service for your needs

If you’re wondering where to start, look no further than LiveNotary. We keep up with the latest industry and state compliance standards so you don’t have to. And when you work with us, you can be sure your clients are exactly who they say they are. We confirm their identities with state-standard, knowledge-based authentication (KBA) and live visual/eletronic credential evaluation so you can work with confidence. 

We also create a secure digital certificate for every transaction, record every job and store it in your cloud-based, electronic journal (provided by us). Enjoy the ability to stay compliant with ease while working with a large pool of clients, choosing your own workload, and creating your own schedule.

We’re here to help

At LiveNotary, we only work with commissioned notaries. So feel free to invite your own notary to join our platform, or enjoy access to our national pool. 

If you bring your own notary aboard, just remember every notary must live in the state where they’re commissioned, and they can’t perform services on our platform until they do. 

We also keep you compliant by making sure every one of your RON requests is legal in your county and state. 

For a deeper dive into local laws, check out the links below.

U.S.

– Uniform Electronic Transactions Act (UETA)

– Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act (E-SIGN)

– Pennsylvania Electronic Transactions Act

– New York’s Electronic Signatures and Records Act (ESRA) 

– The 2020 Florida Statutes 

Canada

– Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA)

Europe 

– The UK’s Electronic Communications Act

– Electronic Identification, Authentication, and Trust Services Regulation (eIDAS)

Wrapping up 

eNotes have opened up a world of possibilities from real estate and banking to retail. Let them take your business to the next level, as you work faster, reduce errors and finalize agreements – without the need to meet face to face. 

Related Post: Learn more about how eNotes are used in real estate.

FAQ

The post <h1>What are eNotes – and do you need them for your business?</h1> appeared first on LiveNotary Blog.

Let’s dive in:

1. What is an online notary?
2. What is a notary certificate?
3. The benefits of becoming a notary
4. 7 steps to becoming a notary online
5. Working with online notary platforms
6. Wrapping up
7. FAQ

What is an online notary?

An online notary public is authorized to electronically notarize documents. They can work remotely and use digital tools for verification, including video conferencing and digital audio. Thanks to the latest and greatest in tech and the widespread adoption of remote electronic notarization, it’s faster, easier and more convenient than ever to get your important documents notarized – where and when you need them.

The online notary public makes sure all of the signers have and understand all of the necessary paperwork, that they understand their duties and obligations, and that all documents are in order, complete and signed. Oh – and when you come across terms like eNotary, electronic notary and remote notary, they’re one and the same.

What is a notary certificate?

A notary certificate is basically your stamp of approval. It means everything is in order, the information is true and understood and everything is signed and verified by the notary. Clients should arrive with paper or electronic documents that already have notary certificates. Then notary publics just fill out the certificates with their information, sign and give it a physical or electronic seal if everything is okay. For in-person meetups, notary publics carry extras just in case.

Notary certificate requirements and how they’re worded can vary from state to state. A jurat certificate is what usually comes to mind when people think of traditional notarizations. It’s a document that verifies the signer signed in front of the notary public. Acknowledgement certificates confirm the signer does in fact understand the documents and the effects of signing them – think duties, responsibilities, transfers of ownership, etc.

The benefits of becoming a notary

There are so many benefits of becoming a notary, including:

Life-long learning. If you love to learn, you’ll enjoy insights and knowledge opportunities in real estate, business, law and more.

High earnings potential. There are so many opportunities to scale up your earnings. Structure your business accordingly.

Flexible schedules. Design your lifestyle with the flexibility to work from home and choose your days, hours, and workload. Work full or part-time, enjoy the flexibility to be there for your family and enjoy greater control over where and when you travel.

Becoming more hirable. Experienced notaries public are attractive hires for companies across a wide range of industries – from advertising to utilities. Start supercharging your resume today!

A reputational boost. If you’re a notary, we know you’re someone we can trust.

Making a difference. Get your notary license online to help individuals, governments, and companies achieve their goals and meet their obligations. One day you’re helping a retired senior create a legacy for her family through a will and testament – the next day you’re helping a happy family sign the deed to their new house. Cue the feel-good music.

And there are special benefits to working online. You’ll save money on expensive printing, storage, and disposal – and if you make the switch from mobile to online notary, you’ll save transportation costs too. You and your clients will also save a lot of time. 

Plus when you work with the right online notary platform ahem, (LiveNotary), your work is fast, easy and secure.

Here’s how to become an online notary…

7 steps to becoming a notary online

1. First things first

To become a notary online, you need to be at least 18 years of age and be a legal resident of your state (you have to apply in your own state). You can’t have any felony convictions and there might be other application process requirements, depending on your state. These are the basics. They also apply to becoming a traditional notary. 

2. Pay your fees

The costs will vary based on your state, but they always include a notary application fee and a fee for the exam. Other costs can include notary training materials, background checks, and supplies. Depending on how you plan to work and your state, you might also need a surety bond – which can come with associated fees. Surety bond prices vary based on the amount of the bond and your credit score. 

Pro Tip: If you have a score of at least 700, you’ll pay dramatically less than everyone else!

3. Fill out an application form with the Secretary of State

You might need a separate registration to apply for online notary services too.

4. Take and pass your state’s standard notary exam

It’s offered by state organizations such as the Department of State or Secretary of State; some states also offer the exam via an outside organization, such as Pearson VUE for Pennsylvania applicants. The minimum required score is also state-dependent, but often 70%. Wherever you take it, devote some serious study time to master the subject. State exams range from 1 to 6 hours and can feature different components such as written portions and multiple choice. You’ll also submit your fingerprints and receive a certificate of completion. 

Pro Tip: To ace the test, study with a state-approved educational resource – like an eLearning notary course. The National Notary Association offers tried-and-true training resources for every state.

5. Get your notary license online

To get your notary license online, take and pass any remote online notary (RON) training courses or tests that might be required by your state. If you’re already a notary public, you might need to take a RON exam; this, again, depends on your state. Montana, Nevada, Indiana and Ohio are among the states with RON exam requirements.

6. Get your digital certificates

Get your digital certificates and other online notary tools, like a secure electronic journal. If you plan to work with LiveNotary, we’ll send you the digital essentials to help you stay compliant and confirm the authentication of your notary services.

7. Buy errors and omissions insurance

To err is human; a good insurance policy is your best bet. Buy errors and omissions insurance so you’ll be financially protected if you make a mistake.

When you pass your notary exam, you’ll get a commission packet in the mail. Goodies inside include your official notary public commission certificate, instructions, filing forms, a certificate of authorization to manufacture notary seals, and a list of authorized manufacturers.

Working with online notary platforms

If you want to become an online notary, consider working with an online platform like LiveNotary. Get ready for flexible hours, the convenience of working from home, a bigger client base, and all the electronic support you could need. Good times. 

At LiveNotary, we also make sure you’re good to go. Here’s what you can expect:

– Comprehensive training resources at LiveNotary University

– Auto-recordings of all of your notarial acts, stored in the cloud

– An electronic journal you can download or view

– In-depth identity verification

– Secure X.509 digital certificates with every transaction

And there aren’t many steps to becoming a notary with our platform. Once you’re certified to get your notary license online, simply:

1. Sign up on our platform by entering your commission details. 
2. We’ll give you a state-compliant notary stamp and a digital signing certificate. 
3. You’re ready to log in, invite clients, and start signing!

Wrapping up

There are so many benefits of becoming a notary online – for you and your clients. Now that you know how to become an online notary and why they’re needed, finish reading this article and get started. Scroll down to read the answers to our FAQ first!

Learn more – book a demo of LiveNotary.com.

FAQ

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Virginia has plenty of opportunities for notaries and future notaries. It’s the 12^th most populous state in the USA. It’s also close to the U.S. capital, Washington D.C.. As recently as 2019,  a CNBC poll named Virginia the number 1 state in the U.S. for businesses. The large population, business environment, and closeness to D.C. combine to form a significant need for notarization services. 

One other contributing factor to the growing opportunity for notaries in Virginia. COVID-19 has led many states to establish laws allowing notaries to perform online notarizations. In 2011, Virginia became the first state to allow remote online notarizations. Because of this, more people are used to using online notarization platforms for their personal and business needs. 

If you’re considering becoming a notary public in Virginia, expanding your practice to online notarizations can provide additional income and flexibility. In this article, we’ll discuss:

1. How to become a traditional notary public in Virginia
2. The process for getting online certified
3. Why you should consider moving your notary practice online 

The Basics

The basic requirements to become a notary in Virginia are that the applicant must be:

• 18 years old
• Able to read and write in English
• A legal citizen of the United States
• Living or working in Virginia
• Not convicted of a felony

If you meet all of these requirements, are ready to apply!

Fee’s, Exams, and Requirements

One of the benefits to becoming a notary in Virginia is that there are relatively few expenses to start. The application fee is $45, you have to purchase a notary seal (the prices vary), and you have to pay $10 to the Circuit Court to take your oath of office.

However, Virginia is a “self-certifying” state. “Self-certifying” means no course or exam is needed to apply as a notary. 

Virginia also does not require the purchase of a surety bond or errors and omissions insurance. For more on surety bonds and E & O insurance, check out this article on our blog. The quick rundown is that bonds and insurance protect the public and the notary from the financial consequences of notarization errors. So, even though they aren’t required, you may still want to consider purchasing a bond and an insurance policy.

The Process

Now that you know the requirements for entry, you’re ready to apply.

First, you’ll have to create a login account on the Virginia Secretary of the Commonwealth’s website.  Next, you’ll use the  Notary Application Wizard to enter your information and pay your $45 application fee. 

Section 3 of the application (the “Agreements” section) requires a notarized signature. Once you’ve done this, mail the completed, notarized pages, along with your application fee receipt, to the Office of the Virginia Secretary of the Commonwealth.

Once yourapplication is approved, the Secretary of the Commonwealth’s office will inform you and the Circuit Court. You’ll have 60 days to report to the Circuit Court to take your oath of office.

After you’ve taken your oath of office, you have to buy your notary seal. At a minimum, your seal must show your name (as it appears on your commission) and the words “Notary Public” and “Commonwealth of Virginia.”

Once you have your seal, that’s it! You are now a notary public in the State of Virginia!

Getting Your Online Commission

Once you’ve received your commission to be a traditional notary public, you’re ready to get your commission as a remote online notary! 

The first step of this process is to make sure you have the necessary technology at home or at your place of employment to perform online notarization. You’ll need a computer with a microphone, webcam, and secure internet connection.

Second, you’ll need to select a remote online notary service provider.  Many services, including LiveNotary, meet the requirements for online notarization in Virginia. The main conditions are that the service allows you to:

• Establish real-time audiovisual communication
• Verify an individual’s identity and credentials
• View and apply electronic stamps and signatures to documents.

Your remote online notarization provider will also allow you to purchase an electronic signature and seal. It’s require that you have your seal and signature before you can apply for your online commission.  

Once you’ve selected your service provider and received your electronic seal and signature, you can complete the Virginia eNotary application. You’ll use your electronic seal and signature to sign the application and pay the $45 online notary application fee. It may take up to two weeks to receive your commission via email. 

Once you’ve gotten your online commission, you can start notarizing online right away! 

Why Become an Online Notary?

Becoming a notary public can provide you many personal and professional opportunities. Notaries can work in many different capacities and fill many different roles. Notaries can also be their own boss, performing notarizations independently of an employer.

Online notaries have all the advantages discussed above, plus the ability to make more money in a safe, flexible, convenient way. 

Low Overhead

As an online notary, you don’t have to deal with some of the burdens associated with in-person notary businesses. If you work from home or in a remote setting, you don’t have to pay for the rent or upkeep of a brick-and-mortar business. Because online notarizations utilize electronic document storage, online notaries don’t have to deal with the space requirements or physical organization of storing paper documents.

Increased Flexibility and Income

If you’re an online notary, you can make your hours, often outside of regular 9 to 5 traditional business hours. The Handbook for Virginia Notaries Public specifies that online notarizations are not limited to signers located only in Virginia. Therefore, Virginia online notaries can perform notarizations for people all over the country, as long as the notary is in Virginia. This allows the notary to make money during hours where businesses might be closed in their home state. 

Improved Safety

The ability to notarize outside of regular business hours for individuals outside their traditional jurisdiction allows for increased income opportunities. If you are a conventional notary, you’ve probably seen a decrease in your in-person business since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Increased regulation and public safety concerns have decreased walk-in customers for all companies. Remote online notarization provides an opportunity for signers to have their needs met safely.

Hopefully, this discussion has provided the information you need to pursue your goal of becoming a notary. If you have other questions about online notarization, check out our LiveNotary Blog. If you’re a traditional notary and ready to step into the online space, contact LiveNotary to see how we can meet your needs! 

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Arizona is one of the most beautiful places in the U.S. The state offers pleasant weather, beautiful scenery, and exciting opportunities. It’s no surprise, then, that U.S. census data showed that Arizona had as one of the fastest-growing populations in 2020. This growing community means that there is a greater need for the services of notaries.

But, COVID, right? The effects of COVID-19 have made it more difficult for people to seek traditional, in-person notarizations safely. Fortunately, Arizona responded quickly to the needs of its citizens by passing legislation in April of 2020. This law made it possible for Arizona notary publics to perform notarizations online. 

If you’re a traditional notary or considering becoming a notary in Arizona, read on to discover:

1. How to become a notary public in Arizona
2. Arizona’s requirements for performing online notarizations
3. The advantages of remote online notarization

Becoming a Notary in the Grand Canyon State

Compared to some other states, becoming a notary in Arizona is pretty simple.

Applicants must:

1. Be 18 years old
2. Able to read and write in English
3. Be a citizen or permanent legal resident of the United States
4. Be a legal resident of Arizona (by paying federal/state taxes or being registered to vote)
5. Not have a felony conviction or lesser crime of “moral terpitude.”

If you meet all of these requirements, you can apply to become a notary in Arizona. You will apply through the  Arizona Secretary of State’s Office. The good news is that Arizona doesn’t require that you complete a class or exam to apply. However, you should review the Arizona Notary Public Reference Manual for your protection and the protection of the public. This manual is available free of charge, and Arizona requires that notaries keep a copy at all times.

It’s important to review this manual, because mistakes during notarizations can cost the signer and the notary money. This is why Arizona requires a $5,000 surety bond to complete your application.

A surety bond protects clients from financial loss caused by a notary mistakes, but it doesn’t protect the notary. If you make a mistake and/or bond pays to a signer, you have to pay that money back. This is why it may be a good idea to consider purchasing Error and Omission insurance, even though it’s not required in Arizona. For more details on surety bonds and E & O insurance, check out this article on our blog. 

Once you have purchased you surety bond, you can complete your application here. The total cost to submit your application is $43, $25 for your application fee and $18 for the bond filing. It takes about 4 weeks for the state to process your application. 

After selecting your service provider, the next step is making your electronic/remote notary request. The Arizona Department of state will send you an application. Once you submit the application, you’ll receive your online notary commission through email. It usually takes about 1-2 weeks to receive your commission.

That’s the hard part. The easy part of applying for your online commission is that there is no extra application fee, training, or exam. There’s also no additional surety bond requirement. The only extra cost of becoming an online notary are the fees for your online notary service provider. 

That’s it! Now you’re an Arizona online notary!

The Sunny Side of Online Notarization

It’s hard to overstate the impact of COVID-19 on our lives. For example, many of us are nervous about face-to-face interactions. Federal and local restrictions combined with customer concerns have resulted in significant drops in businesses income during the pandemic. We’ve started to adjust to these concerns by moving into the online space.  

All change presents opportunities. For notaries, the ability to perform online notarizations offers improved earnings, convenience, and flexibility. 

Income

Online notarization presents several opportunities for increased income and decreased cost. If you have a brick-and-mortar notary business, you can widen your customer base to people outside your local community. In Arizona, you are even able to notarize for clients out of state! On the flip side, if you’re a new notary, you don’t have to worry about the overhead and document storage requirements of a physical location. 

In either case, online notarization will improve your income by providing additional safety for individuals concerned about COVID-19. It also provides an easier experience for both the notary and signers. Which leads into…

Convenience & Flexibility

Online notarization allows for you to notarize from your own home. If you have the internet, a computer with a webcam, and a service provider you have everything you need.

Because you can work from home and notarize for people outside of your state, you can choose your own hours! You no longer are limited by the concept of “normal business hours” for your notarizations.

In addition, people are more easily able to access your services. They don’t have the safety or travel concerns of visiting an in-person notary. Whether you are used to be a traditional earning or are just starting your practice online, you will have the chance to safely see more clients.

Putting it All Together

Hopefully, we’ve provided you the information you need to get your notary business online. If you have further questions or want more information about online notarization, check out the LiveNotary Blog!

Becoming an online notary is a great way to increase your income and reach safely and conveniently. If you’re starting the application process in Arizona, LiveNotary can meet all of your online notary needs. Get in touch with us here today!

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