How Do You Become An Online Notary In Vermont?
Effective March 25, 2020, Vermont Notaries have the option to conduct remote online notarizations (RONs) if they adhere to the guidelines established by the Secretary of State. To become a remote Notary in Vermont, you should follow these steps:
- Obtain or apply for a commission as a conventional Notary Public.
- Select videoconferencing software that aligns with the state’s criteria.
- Stay informed about the approval of RONs by regularly visiting the Vermont Secretary of State’s website for updates.
Once you’re authorized to perform RON in Vermont and approved with your platform, you can start performing Remote Online Notarizations. Be sure to stay current with all your state’s local Online Notary laws!
How to Become a Traditional Notary in Vermont (Get your Notary Commission)
Individuals aspiring to become a Notary in Vermont are required to navigate through the following streamlined process
- Confirm that you meet Vermont’s eligibility criteria (see details below).
- Register an account on the Office of Professional Regulation’s (OPR) website.
- Complete the Oath of Office form and have it notarized.
- Fill out the online application.
- Upload your notarized oath and submit the $30 application fee.
- Successfully pass the VT Notary exam
- Await an email notification regarding your application status or any additional information required by the OPR.
- Access your commission through your OPR website account.
- Consider obtaining a Notary stamp and journal (recommended but not obligatory).
- Explore the option of securing E&O insurance to minimize financial risk (recommended but not obligatory).
Once you have completed all these steps and obtained your commission you are ready to start performing notarial acts as a commissioned notary in Vermont.
What are the requirements to become a Notary in Vermont?
Certain fundamental qualifications must be met by individuals aspiring to become a Notary in Vermont. All applicants are required to:
- Be at least 18 years of age.
- Hold U.S. citizenship or permanent legal resident status.
- Reside in Vermont or work as an employee in the state.
- Not possess any disqualifications under the law.
For further details, consult the Vermont Notary Handbook or the Vermont SoS Website.
Are Online Notaries Legal in Vermont?
Indeed, online notarization is both permitted and officially recognized in Vermont, as established by legislation that took effect on July 1st, 2021. Presently, Notary professionals are readily available to assist Vermont residents in fulfilling their certification requirements.
Vermont Online Notary FAQ’s
Requirements for Becoming a Remote Notary in Vermont
In contrast to most states that permit Remote Online Notarizations (RONs), Vermont follows a streamlined process that doesn’t necessitate a separate registration for becoming an online Notary. Once you’ve obtained your traditional Notary commission and the required supplies, you can commence performing remote online notarizations for signers without delay.
Traditional Notaries in the Green Mountain State must fulfill specific eligibility criteria, which include being at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen or permanent legal resident, and either residing or working within Vermont. Additionally, Notary applicants may face disqualification if they have committed acts that demonstrate a lack of honesty, integrity, competence, or reliability, as outlined in 26 V.S.A. Section 5342 of Chapter 103.
Training and Examination Requirements for Online Notaries
Yes, a mandatory requirement for VT online Notaries is to complete a comprehensive two-hour training course and pass an exam that covers statutes, rules, and ethical considerations pertinent to Notary practices.
Tools and Technology for Online Notarizations in Vermont:
In addition to having a seal stamp, you will need a computer, webcam, microphone, and a secure internet connection to conduct remote online notarizations. Your computer should support two-way audio and visual communication.
While the Vermont Secretary of State doesn’t provide a specific list of approved technology vendors, you will need videoconferencing software that enables secure live communication, allowing you and the signer to speak, hear, and see each other. The chosen software must adhere to Vermont state requirements and have the capability to save an audio-visual recording of the transaction. Additionally, the ability to scan documents may be required.
Is an Additional Surety Bond Required?
No, Vermont does not require Notaries to obtain a surety bond.
E&O Insurance in Vermont
Although the Secretary of State does not mandate errors and omissions (E&O) insurance, many Notaries opt for this coverage as it can help mitigate financial risks in case of errors on notarized documents. Unlike surety bonds, which protect the public, E&O insurance is designed to safeguard the Notary.
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 Vermont?
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 Vermont?
Becoming an Online Notary in Vermont is a simple way to offer convenient 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 Vermont?
A great place to start is the BlueNotary Free Training Group. There you will find advice from other Vermont 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 an independent notary looking to grow their own business. We even have training videos and a signing simulator to get you comfortable with the process.
Register and get started here: Sign Up.
