How to Become an Online Notary in Massachusetts
You must complete the following tasks to become an online notary in Massachusetts.
- Complete Training
- Notify Massachusetts state office via Online Notification Form
The following is directly from the Massachusetts state website:
The following is directly from the Massachusetts state website:
According to a law passed in 2023, notaries public can use online communications platforms to perform their duties. However, they first must complete training and notify our office through an online notification form.
The training and notification form aren’t yet available, so notaries shouldn’t use online remote platforms at this time.
We’re working with the Governor’s office and the Governor’s council to develop the remote online notarization notification form, and to enhance the entire notary application process.
Is Online Notarization Legal in Massachusetts?
The law that came into force on January 1st, 2024, permits online testing of notarization activity (RON). During the COVID-19 crisis, Massachusetts passed Chapter 71, allowing remote notarizations. The use of electronic signatures meant that all the activities could be undertaken virtually, but only because of the pandemic situation.
How do online notarizations work?
The following is how an online notation session works:
- The person needing the notarization will join you on a secure, authorized platform.
- Before you proceed, you’ll need to verify their identity, just like a traditional public notary would.
- Both you and the signer will be able to sign the documents electronically.
- You can only notarize the document after seeing them sign electronically.
- A special digital certificate will be added to the document for extra security.
- Everything will be recorded during the online notarization session to prevent misunderstandings later.
What are the Requirements to Become an Online Notary in Massachusetts?
Becoming authorized for online notarizations is quite simple. Here’s what you need to do:
- You must be 18 or older.
- You need to be a US citizen and comfortable reading, writing, and speaking English.
- A clean criminal record is a must (unless something happened in the past that got pardoned).
- To become a proficient online notary, it’s recommended to take a continuing training online notary training course from a trusted source like the BlueNotary Academy.
- Pick a vendor from the state’s approved list that offers the software you’ll need for online notarizations.
- You’ll need to fill out the state Online Notification Form once it’s released.
Complete all these steps, and you’ll be officially authorized to notarize documents online in Massachusetts! Talk about a convenient service for everyone in the state – no more waiting in line!
Is training required to become an Online Notary in Massachusetts?
Honestly, it depends on your state. In Massachusetts, taking a course from an approved provider like the BlueNotary Academy is a must. This ensures you, the online notary, understand all the secure tricks of the trade for online notarizations. No cutting corners here!
Is there an exam for online notaries?
In Massachusetts, the state-approved training course acts like your test drive. They gotta make sure you’re ready to become an online notary and can perform all of your duties properly. This course covers all the need-to-know stuff for secure and legal online notarizations. Basically, by completing the training, you’ll be an expert at handling online documents like a boss!
What technology and supplies do I need to perform online notarizations in Massachusetts?
You don’t need a lot of technical setup to become an online notary in Massachusetts! Here’s the bare minimum:
- Any desktop or laptop with a webcam and mic will do the job. No need for an expensive computer. Furthermore, if your current setup isn’t webcam or mic-ready, you can easily plug in external ones.
- A strong, reliable internet connection is key to avoiding any hiccups during your online notarizations. No one wants a frozen screen in the middle of important business!
- The state provides a list of approved companies offering secure software platforms for online notarizations.
- Your chosen RON service provider will help you set up your digital toolkit. This includes things like an electronic journal to keep track of everything, a special e-seal to keep documents safe, and a digital certificate with your signature to prove it’s you. In short, they’ll walk you through everything!
Bottom line? Just a basic tech setup (computer, webcam, internet) will do the trick.
Do I need another surety bond or E&O insurance policy in Massachusetts?
Online notaries in Massachusetts need to get Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance, but if you are a public notary and already have one, then you will not need to purchase a separate one. This insurance operates as a safety net to protect you against making an error, in person or on the web, as you are also taking notarizations. It cushions you against financial losses arising from being sued for mistakes.
What notarial acts can be performed virtually in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts online notaries may touch on a variety of documents which include acknowledgements, oaths and affirmations just to mention a few. This will span in a broader area, specifically for the real estate and legal fields.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Notarization in Massachusetts
How much does it cost to register as an Online Notary?
It depends on the state, but it’s mostly between a few hundred (in US dollars). This includes the application fee, anything from the software from the vendor of your choice, and other equipment (for example, a webcam).
Will a document notarized remotely in Massachusetts be recognized by other states?
Yes, the documents you notarize in Massachusetts will be good to go anywhere in the US. Due to long standing cross-state notarization laws, these documents are legal in other states!
How long will my online Notary commission last in Massachusetts?
Your online notarization license stays legal with your existing notary commission (as long as it’s renewed every five years, of course). This means you can do both traditional and online notarizations. But remember, the Secretary of State can take away your online privileges if you break the rules, so play it safe!
