How Do You Become An Online Notary In Alabama?
Commencing July 1, 2021, Alabama Notaries have the authority to conduct remote notarizations specifically for acknowledgments under a process known as Remote Ink Notarization. Here are the essential steps to guide you in becoming a remote Notary in Alabama:
- First, you must already hold a valid commission as a traditional Notary Public.
- Next, carefully choose videoconferencing technology that aligns with the state’s prescribed requirements.
Once you’re authorized to perform in Alabama and approved and familiar with your platform, you can start performing Remote Ink Notarizations. Be sure to stay current with all your state-local Online Notary laws!
Find more info about Alabama Remote Ink Notarizations here.
How to Become a Traditional Notary in Alabama(Get your Notary Commission)
Alabama has simplified its Notary application process to ensure consistency across all counties. However, it’s essential to verify with your county’s probate judge for any specific requirements they may have, such as requesting a copy of your voter registration card. Here are clear, step-by-step instructions for Alabama residents interested in becoming a Notary Public:
- Ensure you meet all the state’s qualifications (see below).
- Complete the application form.
- Make a photocopy of your Alabama Driver’s License.
- Submit both the application and the copy of your license to your county’s Probate Office, accompanied by the $10 fee.
- Within 30 days, finish the Notary training course and obtain the Course Completion Certificate.
- Keep a close eye on your mailbox for the letter of appointment from the Probate Office, and make note of the date on it.
- Secure a $50,000 surety bond.
- Register your bond with the Probate Office within 40 days from the appointment letter’s date.
- Present your Course Completion Certificate to the Probate Office.
- The county will transmit your commission details to the Secretary of State.
- Expect to receive your Notary commission certificate by mail.
- Purchase your Notary seal, which can be an inking stamp or an embosser.
- Consider obtaining a Notary journal and E&O (Errors and Omissions) insurance (optional but highly recommended).
Once you have completed all these steps and obtained your commission you are ready to start performing notarial acts as a commissioned notary in Alabama.
What are the requirements to become a Notary in Alabama?
To become a Notary Public in Alabama, applicants must adhere to the following eligibility criteria:
1. Reside in the Alabama county where the application is submitted.
2. Not be undergoing bankruptcy proceedings.
3. Have no prior convictions for felonies or crimes of moral turpitude.
4. Must not be under a current adjudication of incapacity.
5. Note that individuals residing in another U.S. state and working in Alabama are not eligible to apply for an Alabama Notary Commission.
For further details, consult the Alabama Notary Public Guide or the Alabama SoS Website.
Are Online Notaries Legal in Alabama?
Certainly, here’s a more refined version of your statement:
Yes, with the enactment of Senate Bill 275 in Alabama, notaries are now empowered to conduct remote acknowledgments, provided they are physically present within the state during the notarial act. This legal framework allows individuals in Alabama to avail themselves of online notary services, granting them the convenience and advantages of remote notarization. Essentially, any document or form that qualifies for notarization through a traditional notary can also be notarized by a remote online notary. However, it is crucial to thoroughly review the specific requirements of your document to ensure a smooth notarization process. By doing so, you can work closely with a notary public who will guide you through the proper and secure notarization of your important documents.
Alabama Online Notary FAQ’s
Requirements for Becoming a Remote Notary in Alabama:
Before you can offer your Notary services remotely, you must first meet Alabama’s prerequisites, which include holding a traditional Notary Public Commission. To qualify, Notaries must meet the legal requirements for serving as an officer in the state, reside in the county where they apply, and must not have been convicted of a felony unless their civil and political rights have been restored.
It’s important to note that residents of another U.S. state who work in Alabama are not eligible to obtain an Alabama Notary Public Commission.
Is Training or an Exam Required for Remote Notaries in Alabama?
No, neither training nor an exam is mandatory for conducting remote notarizations in Alabama.
What Tools and Technology Are Necessary for Remote Notarizations?
To perform a remote notarization in Alabama, you will require a computer equipped with a webcam, microphone, and a secure internet connection. Your computer should be capable of supporting real-time two-way audio-video communication.
Since remote notarizations in Alabama still require Notaries to affix a wet ink signature on the document, digital tools such as a digital certificate or electronic signature are not a requirement.
Do I Need an Additional Surety Bond?
No, Alabama Notaries are not obliged to obtain a second surety bond specifically for remote notarizations. However, it’s advisable to consult with your bond provider to confirm whether remote notarizations are covered under your existing bond.
Is an Errors and Omissions (E&O) Insurance Policy Necessary?
Although an Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance policy is not obligatory, it is highly recommended. Having E&O insurance provides essential protection in the event of unintentional or intentional errors during notarizations, safeguarding you from potential legal fees or damages.
What to Expect as a Notary?
As in other professions, the amount of work an online notary receives can vary widely. Generally, the busiest time is tax season, when documents such as tax returns need to be signed and notarized. However, there is also a steady demand throughout the year from businesses and individuals in need of authentication services. There are many businesses that need consistent notarizations. Did we mention there are over 1.25 billion notarizations performed annually?
It is important to remember that when working as an online notary, you are responsible for adhering to the regulations set forth by the state. This includes making sure documents are properly notarized and witnessed. Always ensure documents contain all of the necessary information. The most successful online notaries spend some time doing their own client acquisition and sales funneling, especially those who are doing it online.
How Much Can You Expect To Make as a Notary in Alabama?
As you gain more experience and have notarized more documents, you will be able to earn even more by taking on loan signings (where the industry standard is $150 per session) and other creative packages and invoicing clients outside of BlueNotary. You will be able to earn a very decent income – all from the comfort of your home office.
BlueNotary lets you bill your clients at your own rates. This makes your earnings very flexible depending on your ability to build a network.
Why Should You Think about Becoming An Online Notary In Alabama?
Becoming an Online Notary in Alabama is a simple way to offer convenient services and secure services to clients from wherever you are. Online Notaries offer faster booking and easier document completion turnaround times! Save clients and yourself time by working from home. What are you waiting for?
How do I Start Notarizing Online in Alabama?
A great place to start is the BlueNotary Free Training Group. There you will find advice from other Alabama notaries who’ve been through the process and can answer your questions.
Becoming an online notary can be a great way to supplement your income and make a positive impact on the community. As an online notary, you get to decide which platform to use for finding clients.
BlueNotary is the best option for super simple onboarding and for independent notaries looking to grow their own businesses. We even have training videos and a signing simulator to get you comfortable with the process.
Register and get started here: Sign Up.
