How to Become an Online Notary in Mississippi

Let’s understand what it takes to become an online notary in Mississippi.

Is Online Notarization Legal in Mississippi?

Absolutely! House Bill 1156 established remote online notarization as a legal practice in Mississippi starting July 1, 2021. This legislation empowers notaries public commissioned within the state to notarize electronic documents remotely.

How do online notarizations work?

With RON, you can now get your documents notarized online. Here’s how it works:

• Secure Platform: You’ll access a special website to connect with the notary.
• Verify Your ID: The notary will confirm your identity electronically.
• Virtual Meeting: You’ll have a quick video chat with the notary to review the document.
• E-Signing: You’ll sign the document electronically.
• Notary’s Seal: The notary will add their digital seal to make it official.

What are the Requirements for Becoming an Online Notary in Mississippi?

The state of Mississippi offers opportunities for commissioned notaries to become authorized for online notarizations (RON). Here’s an overview of the qualifications and process involved:

• You must already hold a current commission as a traditional notary public in Mississippi.
• As with traditional notary commissions, applicants must be at least 18 years old, U.S. citizens or resident aliens, registered voters in their state of application, and proficient in reading, writing, and speaking English.
• You must possess a high school diploma or equivalent credential.
• No felony convictions are permissible unless pardoned.
• Complete a state-approved online notary public training course from an association like the BlueNotary Academy specifically designed for online notarizations.
• Select a technology provider from the Secretary of State’s list of approved RON service providers. This company will equip you with the software and tools necessary to conduct online notarizations securely.
• Submit an application to the Mississippi Secretary of State’s office. This application comes with a one-time filing fee.

Is training required to become a Mississippi online Notary?

Mississippi offers training for online notary public authorization through approved RON service providers, like the BlueNotary Academy. This ensures proper training for secure online notarization procedures.

Is there an exam for online notaries?

No, you don’t need to take a special exam for RON. The training replaces the exam and equips notaries with the knowledge and skills needed to perform secure and compliant RONs. Therefore, you’ll learn everything you need to know to handle online notarizations effectively.

What technology and supplies do I need to perform online notarizations in Mississippi?

Being an online notary in Mississippi is pretty straightforward on the tech side. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Video conferencing-ready computer: This can be a laptop or desktop with a built-in webcam and microphone, or you can add an external set.
• Reliable internet: Make sure your internet connection is strong and secure to avoid interruptions during notarizations.
• Approved RON service provider: The state has a list of approved companies that offer the secure software platform you’ll need to conduct RONs.
• Digital toolkit: Your RON provider will likely help you set up an electronic journal, e-seal, and certificate with your digital signature. These tools are key for record-keeping and verification.

Do I need another surety bond or E&O insurance policy in Mississippi?

Mississippi recommends Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance for notaries, covering mistakes or omissions during traditional and online notarizations. It’s optional but provides financial protection. You can choose between a $10,000 surety bond or an E&O insurance policy.

What notarial acts can be performed virtually?

Mississippi permits online notarization (RON) for a variety of document types, including:

• Acknowledgments: Verify the identity of a signer and confirm their voluntary signing of a document.

• Verification on Oath or Affirmation: Having a signer swear or affirm under oath that the contents of a document are true. This is also known as taking an affidavit.

• Certifying a Copy of a Record: Attesting that a copy of a document is an accurate reproduction of the original.

Jurat: Formalizing an affidavit by adding a sworn statement from the notary public detailing when, where, and before whom the oath or affirmation was taken.

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Notarization in Mississippi

How much does it cost to register as an online Notary?

The cost for Remote Online Notary (RON) authorization varies by state, typically ranging from under $100 to several hundred dollars. This covers factors like the application filing fee, technology provider fees, and any necessary equipment on your end for secure online notarizations.

How much can I charge as an online notary in Mississippi?

Mississippi regulations allow for variable fees charged by online notaries. However, there is a standard additional fee of $5 that professionals can add for each extra notarization process required beyond the base service.

Who can you do online notarizations for?

Remote online notaries can serve signers globally but must be in their commissioning state during the notarization. For signers outside the U.S., the document must concern U.S. matters, and the notarization must be legal in their location.

How long does it take to become an online Notary in Mississippi?

Becoming a remote online notary can take up to 6 weeks. The most time-consuming step (around 4 weeks) is obtaining a traditional notary public commission. The remaining steps for RON authorization are typically quicker:

After applying with the filing fee, allow processing time by the state.

Will RON services grow my Mississippi Notary business?

Mississippi notaries can significantly expand their reach and client base by offering Remote Online Notary (RON) services. This allows you to notarize documents for clients across the state as long as you’re physically present within Mississippi during the online notarization process.

To further enhance your marketability to RON service providers, consider becoming a certified Notary Signing Agent (NSA). NSAs typically specialize in frequent loan signings, which are a common application of RON technology. The NSA certification process often involves background checks, making you a more attractive candidate to RON providers seeking qualified professionals for loan signings and other secure online transactions.

In essence, becoming a remote online notary in Mississippi presents a valuable opportunity to grow your business by efficiently serving a wider clientele and establishing yourself as a trusted provider within the RON ecosystem.

How long will my online Notary commission last?

Your remote notary authorization is linked to your active traditional notary public commission. As long as your traditional commission is valid, you can perform RONs. Furthermore, the Mississippi Secretary of State has the authority to revoke your remote notary authorization for violations of regulations or misconduct.

However, remember to renew your traditional commission every five years to maintain your eligibility for remote notary services.