Why Remote Online Notarization (RON) is the Future (But Not a Replacement for In-Person Services)

The Role of Notarization in Today’s World

Notarization has always played a critical role in legal, financial, and real estate transactions, ensuring that documents are properly executed and fraud is prevented. While Remote Online Notarization (RON) is revolutionizing the industry, it’s important to understand that RON isn’t here to replace in-person notarization—it’s here to expand access and provide more options. So, when does RON make sense, and when is an in-person notary still the better choice? Let’s break it down.

When RON Makes Life Easier

• For Busy Professionals & Travelers:

  If you’re constantly on the go or live in a different state than where your documents need to be notarized, RON allows you to sign and notarize documents from anywhere in the U.S.

• For Urgent or After-Hours Needs:

  Need a notarization outside of traditional business hours? Many RON notaries (like Bee & Barb Notary!) offer flexible scheduling to accommodate urgent situations.

• For Those with Mobility Challenges:

  If getting to a notary’s office is difficult due to health conditions or transportation barriers, RON provides a secure, accessible alternative.

• For Business & Legal Documents:

  RON is widely accepted for various business agreements, power of attorney documents, affidavits, and even some real estate transactions.

• For Secure, Recorded Transactions:

  RON platforms use advanced identity verification, encrypted digital signatures, and session recordings, providing a secure, tamper-evident record of the notarization process.

When In-Person Notarization is Still Necessary

• For Certain Real Estate Closings:

  Some states still require in-person notarization for certain mortgage and real estate transactions. Always check with your lender or title company first.

• For Documents Requiring Physical Presence:

  Some legal documents, such as handwritten wills, may require an in-person witness and notarization depending on state laws.

• For Those Without the Right Technology:

  RON requires a stable internet connection, a camera, and a valid form of ID that can be digitally verified. If a signer lacks these, in-person notarization may be a better fit.

The Bottom Line: RON Expands Access, Not Replaces It

Remote Online Notarization is an exciting advancement that makes notarization more convenient, accessible, and secure. But there will always be situations where in-person notarization is the better—or only—option. That’s why at Bee & Barb Notary, we offer BOTH! Whether you need a mobile notary to meet you in person or a fast and secure RON session, we’re here to help.

Two ways to notarize, one goal: secure and legal documents. Whether online or in person, notarization ensures trust and authenticity.