Convenience is one of the advantages of going digital. However, you will have to prepare to deal with new technologies and terminologies. For example, a field benefitting immensely from digitalization is notarization. A digital process is increasingly replacing the traditional notarial act that involves paper and ink usage.
There exist different ways of getting a notarial act. However, despite the differences in getting your document notarized, the objective is similar. They all deliver the authentication of transactions or documents.
Consequently, here are the differences between the different types of notaries.
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Electronic notarization
Electronic notarization means the verification and signing of documents happen electronically. All the parties involved in the process are huddled in the exact location or room. Since the act or ceremony is official, it is carried out by the notary public.
Since the process happens electronically, there is no reliance on physical or traditional ink to sign documents. Instead, the notary public electronically adds a tamper-evident seal or stamp on your document.
As a result, if there is any attempt to change the document without authorization, there will be an exhibit. Electronic notarization, therefore, delivers a protected and secure electronic document. Still, you may have to deal with the same issues arising from the use of mobile or traditional notaries.
Remember that this type of notary is often called E-Notary.
Remote notary
The notary public is allowed to legally perform notarizations via the internet, relying on various digital tools for live video and audio communication. As the name suggests, participants do not have to be present in the same room or location.
Recently, remote online notaries or simply online rotaries have been increasing in popularity mainly due to the current COVID-19 pandemic. The method for verifying and signing documents saves time and resources and may assist in curbing the spread of the disease as there is no traveling involved.
If you have never tried using the process of remote notarization, that may mislead you into thinking it is not easy, which is not the case. On the contrary, remote notary services will surprise you because the process is stress-free.
The process mainly involves four stages: uploading a document, verifying your identity, connecting with a live notary, and downloading and printing electronically signed and sealed documents.
For example, you may have to answer queries challenging or proving your identity. A notary may as well establish your identity proof by examining government-issued identification documents like an ID and driver’s license. Alternatively, a witness can vouch for your identity, vital to ensure you are who you claim to be.
There is the recording of the signing process to enable later verification or reference.
The main difference between electronic notarization and remote online notarization is that, with the latter, the participants and the notary are in different locations or rooms. You do not have to leave the comfort of your home to participate in a notarization ceremony. Often, participating in remote notarization may not affect your daily activities.
Moreover, note that all remote notarizations happen electronically, but not all processes occur online or remotely.
Mobile notary
The notary is a traditional notarial ceremony and commutes to your location to notarize documents. A mobile notary is usually also called a traveling or commuting notary. The main advantage of working with a mobile notary is that you do not have to stress yourself trying to locate a notarial service. Since a traveling or mobile public notary comes to your place, you must schedule a visit.
However, using a mobile notary may also come with its set of disadvantages. For instance, unlike a traditional notary, a mobile notary may charge more for the service to cater to commuting expenses. So, compare the fee levied and see whether the convenience on offer is worth it.
The critical difference between remote notarization and mobile notarization is that the latter is relatively less expensive. That is because the only expenses you incur are service and internet access-related.
Documents that can be commissioned remotely and signed digitally online
● Affidavits
● Letters for travel consent
● Common and statutory declarations
● Forms for delay of birth registration
● Applications for amending birth registration
● Parentage affirming declarations
● An application to change a registration mistake
● An application to legally change a name
● Lost passports
● Any other document that demands the signature of a notary or attorney
Notarizing other documents such as separation or divorce agreements demands an in-person appointment.
When choosing a notary type, select an option that will offer you the least cost and more convenience. So, what are you waiting for to notarize your document today? Contact a digital notary to experience how easy the process is today. You may not have to drive or leave the convenience of your living space to get your document signed and sealed.
