How to Become an Online Notary in Connecticut
On June 12, 2023, the Governor of Connecticut signed Public Act 23-28, An Act Concerning Remote Notarial Acts. This Act became effective October 1, 2023 allowing notaries to perform Online Notarizaiton.
Active state employees, including state police, may use the online notary application process to apply for a notary license for use in their official duties.
- Obtain your Traditional Connecticut Notary Public Commission
- Familiarize yourself with the Remote Notarization Section of the Connecticut’s Notary Public Manuel.
- Sign up with a state compliant Communication Technology Platform. It’s recommended to sign up for one that also includes a built in Journal.
- Begin Performing Remote Online Notarization.
You are able to submit a screenshot of your state commission/approval as your RON Approval Document.
Is Online Notarization Legal in Connecticut?
Yes, of course, online notarization is legal in Connecticut Public Act 23-28 on October 1, 2023. This implies that you can get your documents notarized even if you are at home through a video call with a licensed notary in Connecticut.
How to Become a Notary Public in Connecticut
Follow these steps to become a Notary Public in Connecticut.
- Check if you qualify to be a notary in Connecticut.
- Study the Notary Public Manual for the test.
- Write a Jurat and Writing Sample by hand.
- Get someone important who knows you to fill out a Certificate of Character.
- Sign up on the eLicense website.
- Apply, take the test, and pay $120 online.
- Wait 3-5 days for your appointment email.
- Within 30 days, go to your town clerk to swear in and pay $10.
- You can also register with other town clerks for $10 each.
- Consider taking classes to improve your notary and business building education.
How Do Online Notarizations Work?
You can get important documents notarized without leaving your house in Connecticut. This is possible because of RON services, but there are a few things to keep in mind:
- You must use a video conference platform specified by the state to make sure that and everything is safe.
- You will virtually meet the one who needs notarization.
- It is vital you first ensure their authenticity before continuing with the process.
- You’ll be able to e-sign the documents in the desired format.
- The document can be notarized by you only after you have visually authenticated their electronic signature.
- You’ll need to add a special digital seal to the document for added security.
- As a best practice, the whole online notarization session will be recorded.
What are the Requirements for Becoming an Online Notary in Connecticut?
Becoming an authorized online notary is slightly easier if you are already a notary public in Connecticut.
- Aged 18 or older.
- A legal American citizen.
- Proficient in writing, speaking, and reading the English language.
- Without criminal records (except those pardoned).
- If you want to learn about RON (Remote Online Notarization), enroll in an online notary training course offered by an authorized association like the BlueNotary Academy.
- Select a vendor in the state’s recognized list that provides trustworthy software for online notarizations.
- Submit the application to the Connecticut Secretary of State’s office, including an advance payment.
After you’ve gone through this procedure, you will have the ability to notarize documents online, providing a convenient option for all residents in Connecticut!
Is training required to become an Online Notary in Connecticut?
It varies from state to state; some states require training while some others do not. When discussing the becoming the online notary in Connecticut, it is recommended to take training from approved education providers such as the BlueNotary Academy. This will enable the notaries to be well-acquainted with the secure methods of remote notarizations.
Is there an exam for online notaries?
Connecticut doesn’t have an examination for online notaries. A state-approved training course acts as your certification, so you can be sure you know what you’re doing. It entails the direct knowledge and skills needed to conduct safe and compliant e-notarizations. Therefore, with the training, you will have the competency to deal with online notarization successfully.
What technology and supplies do I need to perform online notarizations in Connecticut?
Being an online notary in Connecticut does not call for a lot of expensive equipment. Following is a list of the essentials:
- Video Conferencing Ready Computer: Any desktop or laptop with a webcam and mic would be just fine. If you do not, you will successfully link external cameras and microphones.
- Reliable Internet: A reliable, stable web connection is fundamental in preventing shortcomings during online notarizations.
- Approved RON Service Provider: The State will maintain a list of companies that have been approved to provide the secure software platform that you will need for online notarization. Consider it to be your virtual office where you handle the transactions.
- Digital Toolkit: Your RON service provider will guide you through the process of your digital toolkit configuration. This could entail keeping records in an electronic journal, using an e-seal to protect documents, and signing with a digital certificate to verify.
Basically, you will have the basic tech setup and will utilize the secure platform that is offered by your selected RON provider service. They’ll provide you with all these digital devices to run the notarization remotely and securely online.
Do I need another surety bond or E&O insurance policy in Connecticut?
Connecticut authorities directed that all notaries should be covered by Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance regardless of whether they deal with conventional or online notarizations. This type of insurance will cushion you economically when you make an error or a mistake during the notarization process done either online or offline.
What notarial acts can be performed virtually in Connecticut?
Connecticut notaries can handle various document types online, including those requiring:
- Acknowledgments.
- Oaths and affirmations.
- Depositions and affidavits.
This covers a wide range of needs, from real estate to legal matters.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Notarization in Connecticut
How much does it cost to register as an online Notary?
The amount you will pay for your online notarization varies by state, usually $100 to several hundred dollars. It includes items like the application fee, the technology provider costs, and the costs of any equipment that you will need. Please go to the Connecticut Secretary of State’s website for their particular application fee.
How much can I charge as an online notary in Connecticut?
Notarizing documents online does not have a single price, as established by the government of Connecticut. Usually, you will need to spend around $25 for this notarization act. Keep in mind that this deal is a very complex matter, and market rates, as well as salary levels, can, to a certain extent, set the price.
Who can you do online notarizations for in Connecticut?
Online notarizations of Connecticut citizens can be done anywhere in the world, but you (the notary) must be in Connecticut during the session. International signers looking to use the document must ensure that it has a US connotation/legal presence in their locality.
How long does it take to become an online Notary in Connecticut?
The process of getting traditional notary public designation can take up to 4 weeks. This is also the longest stage as it consists of a detailed examination by the Secretary of State’s office. Here is the process:
| RON training course | A few hours |
| Obtaining surety bond and E&O insurance quotes | 1-2 days |
| Getting application notarized | 1 day |
In summary, your online notary title depends upon you getting the traditional notary commission first. And the process of RON is faster since it is only requiring an e-sign.
Will other states recognize a document that I notarize in Connecticut?
Document notarizations conducted in Connecticut, as well as online, are viewed as authentic across all 50 states. Do not worry about whether or not it will work in other states. Nevertheless, the notary needs to verify that the “venue” mentioned in the document matches the state in which the online notarization is conducted.
Venue is the place where the official act (the notarization) happens. In short, the document and the online broadcast should be in the same state.
How long will my online Notary commission last?
Your online notary certificate springboards from your traditional commission as a notary. As long as your traditional commission is active (renewed every five years), you can act as a RON. Nevertheless, the Secretary of State is authorized to remove your RON authorization if you are caught breaking the rules.
