Online Notary: The Ultimate 2025 Guide to Remote Notarization (Laws, Steps & Top Services)

Online notarization has transformed how you get documents notarized. Instead of finding a local notary and meeting in person, you can now connect with a certified notary online via live video. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about online notaries in 2025 – what they are, how they work, their legality in each state, how you can become an online notary, potential earnings, and a comparison of the top remote notarization services (including BlueNotary). By the end, you’ll know exactly how to notarize documents online safely and legally.

What Is an Online Notary (RON)?

Online notary services – often called Remote Online Notarization (RON) – allow a commissioned notary public to notarize your documents entirely via the internet​. In a typical online notarization, you and the notary meet over a secure audio-video call instead of in person. The notary verifies your identity remotely, witnesses your electronic signature, and then electronically stamps/seals the document. The result is a digitally notarized document that carries the same legal weight as one notarized on paper. You might also hear terms like virtual notarization, digital notarization, or eNotary, which all refer to the same concept​.

Key points: Online notarization uses digital tools and secure communication to perform the same duties as a traditional notary:

• Live Video Meeting: You interact with the notary via webcam in real time, so they can confirm it’s you signing.
• Electronic Signatures and Seal: You’ll electronically sign the document, and the notary applies an electronic seal and their e-signature.
• Digital Record: The session is typically recorded and stored as required by law, providing an audit trail for added security.

Online notaries bring the notary’s traditional role as a “guardian of truth” into the digital age​. In other words, you get the convenience of an online service with the trust and legality that notarization provides.

How Does Online Notarization Work? (Step-by-Step)

Notarizing a document online is simple. Here’s a step-by-step look at how a typical remote notarization works from start to finish:

1. Upload Your Document: You start by uploading a PDF or image of the document that needs notarization to the platform. (If you only have a paper copy, you can usually scan or take a photo of it to upload​.)
2. Verify Your Identity: Just like an in-person notary checks your ID, an online notary will verify you remotely. You’ll submit a photo of your government-issued ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.), and you may answer a few security questions drawn from public databases to confirm your identity (a process known as Knowledge-Based Authentication)​.
3. Connect to a Live Notary: Once you’re ready, the platform connects you via live video chat to a licensed notary public. The notary appears on your screen, and you both can see and hear each other​. This two-way video call is a core requirement – it’s like a virtual meeting where the notary observes you sign.
4. E-Sign and Notarize: During the video meeting, you (and any other signers) electronically sign the document. The notary then electronically signs and affixes their digital notary seal to notarize it. The notary may also have you verbally acknowledge your signature or take an oath (for jurat notarizations) over the call – the process mirrors the traditional notarization ceremony.
5. Download the Notarized Document: After the notary completes the electronic notarial certificate, you pay the fee and can instantly download your notarized document​. The document will typically be in PDF form with a digital certificate embedded to verify its authenticity. Many platforms will also email you a copy or provide secure storage in your account.

From start to finish, an online notarization session usually takes about 10–15 minutes. There’s no need to print or mail anything. You can do it from home, 24/7 – some major platforms advertise notarizations “in under 10 minutes” anytime, like us, BlueNotary.

Is Online Notarization Legal in My State?

One of the first questions you might have is whether an online notarization will be legally accepted – especially across different states. The good news: online notarization is legal in all U.S. states and territories as of 2025 in the sense that a notarization performed by a properly commissioned online notary is recognized nationwide​. Here’s why:

• Interstate Recognition: Thanks to the Full Faith and Credit Clause of the U.S. Constitution, a notarial act lawfully performed in one state is accepted in every other state​. For example, if a notary in Virginia or Texas notarizes your document online, every other state will honor that notarization just as if it were done by a local notary​.
• Federal E-SIGN Act: The Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act (E-SIGN) ensures that electronic signatures and notarizations cannot be denied legal effect solely because they are electronic​. In short, digital signatures and seals are as legally valid as ink and stamps under federal law.

State Laws: Nearly every state has passed laws authorizing their notaries to perform remote online notarizations (RON). States began adopting RON laws around 2018, and by now over 40 states have explicit RON statutes, while others have temporary authorizations or pending laws. Here are some key state-by-state nuances:

• Virginia: One of the first states to authorize RON (back in 2012). A Virginia notary can notarize for signers anywhere in the U.S., which set the stage for nationwide services​.
• Texas: Authorized RON in 2018. Texas online notaries simply register with the Secretary of State and can then notarize for signers nationwide​.
• Florida: Enabled RON in 2020 with additional requirements (discussed below). Florida notaries must follow specific training and tech standards, but Florida signers can also use out-of-state notaries​.
• California: California is a special case. In 2022, California passed a law to eventually allow its notaries to perform RON, but implementation may be delayed until 2030 (yes, almost a decade later!)​. Today, if you’re in California, you can still get documents notarized online by using a notary from another state. For example, many Californians use Nevada or Texas online notaries – this is legal, because other states’ notarizations are recognized in CA. But a California-commissioned notary won’t be performing the act (until California’s RON law fully takes effect).

In summary, online notarization is broadly legal and accepted across the United States. Each state may have its own rules for how notaries become authorized to do RON, but as a customer or signer, you can get an online notarization no matter which state you live in. Always ensure you use a platform that provides a duly licensed notary from a U.S. state that allows RON (major services will handle this automatically). If you have a very state-specific document or court filing, it doesn’t hurt to double-check any local restrictions, but generally online notarized documents are valid in all 50 states.

Why Use Online Notary Services? (Benefits)

Switching from a traditional notary to an online notary offers significant benefits in convenience, speed, and security. Here are the key advantages of using an online notary service:

• Convenience – Notarize from Anywhere: You can get your document notarized from the comfort of your home or office, 24/7. No need to take time off work, travel, or search for a “notary near me” at odd hours​. As long as you have an internet connection and a device, a notary is just a few clicks away. This is especially helpful if you’re traveling or living abroad – you can notarize U.S. documents from anywhere in the world.
• Speed – Saves Time: Online notarizations typically take just minutes. You avoid waiting in line or scheduling appointments days in advance. Many online platforms can connect you with a notary immediately, even late at night or on weekends​. The entire process – including receiving your notarized PDF – is much faster than the traditional route.
• Security and Fraud Prevention: It may surprise you, but notarizing online can be more secure than doing it in person​. Platforms embed multiple security features: identity verification quizzes, credential analysis of your ID, secure video recordings, and digital audit trails. Electronic records ensure there’s always evidence of the notarial act​. It’s harder for someone to forge your signature or use a fake ID without getting caught. (For example, BluNotary’s platform uses biometric authentication and is SOC 2 Type II and MISMO certified for security​.) The risk of fraud or error is reduced, and digital copies can’t be altered without detection due to cryptographic seals.
• Cost-Effective: Online notarization often costs the same or less than what you might pay a mobile notary to travel to you. Many states set maximum fees around $25 per notarization, which is roughly what online services charge (more on pricing later). Considering you save travel costs and time, it’s a great value. Additionally, businesses can save money by handling notarizations remotely – for example, online real estate closings can save over $450 per transaction in various overhead costs​.
• Accessibility: Because it’s online, notarization services become accessible to people who may have mobility issues or live in rural areas without nearby notaries. Anyone with an internet connection can access a notary – this opens up notary services to a wider audience, ensuring documents can be notarized by people who might otherwise struggle to get to a notary public​.
• Digital Record & Easy Retrieval: No more worrying about losing the only notarized original. With an online notarization, you get a digital copy that you can easily store and reproduce. Platforms often provide an account dashboard with your notarized docs saved, so you can download your notarized documents anytime if you need extra copies​. The recorded video session is also stored per law (typically for 5–10 years) which can be invaluable if the notarization is ever questioned.

In short, an online notary gives you a faster, easier, and highly secure way to get documents notarized. It combines the age-old trust of notarization with the efficiency of modern technology – truly “the best of both worlds” for routine paperwork.

What Do You Need to Notarize a Document Online? (Requirements)

Getting a document notarized online is straightforward, but there are a few basic things you’ll need to have ready as a signer:

• A Valid ID: You must have an acceptable government-issued photo ID to prove your identity to the notary. Typically, a driver’s license, state ID, or passport is required. The ID should be current (unexpired). You’ll be asked to upload a clear image of it. The platform will perform credential analysis (essentially checking the ID’s security features electronically) and the notary will visually compare you to your ID on the video.
• Social Security Number (last 4 digits): In most cases, if the platform uses knowledge-based identity verification, you’ll need to provide the last four digits of your SSN to generate the identity quiz questions​. This is used to pull public record questions (like past addresses, car loans, etc.) to further confirm your identity. Note: The questions are multiple-choice and time-limited. If you’re uncomfortable providing your SSN, some services might use an alternate verification method, but SSN is standard for the online quiz.
• A Device with Camera & Microphone: To do a video call, you’ll need a computer, smartphone, or tablet with a webcam and microphone. A stable internet connection is important for a clear session. Most platforms work through a web browser (on a PC/Mac) or a mobile app/ browser (on your phone). Test your device beforehand – LawDepot’s service, for example, prompts you to test your camera and mic before starting​.
• Email Address: You’ll need an email to register on the platform and receive your documents. The notary invitation or meeting link may be sent via email if you’re using certain services.
• Payment Method: A credit or debit card to pay the notarization fee at the end. Most platforms accept major credit cards online. Some may show the pricing upfront or put a hold and then charge after the notary completes the session.
• Other Signers or Witnesses (if applicable): If your document requires additional signers or a witness, coordinate with them ahead of time. Many platforms allow you to have multiple parties join the same online session from different locations. Everyone will need their IDs and to meet the above requirements. (Some services can even provide a witness for you for an extra fee – e.g., on-demand witnesses for ~$10​.)
• Supported Document Format: Usually PDF is preferred. If you have a Word document, you might need to convert it to PDF. Some platforms let you upload images (JPEG/PNG), but PDF ensures the formatting stays consistent.
• Age and Residency: You generally need to be at least 18 years old to use a notary service (since minors typically cannot enter legal agreements). Also, you should be a resident of or physically located in the jurisdiction the notary is authorized for. However, many platforms can service you regardless of your state, because the notary might be commissioned in another state. For example, a notary in Nevada can notarize for a signer located in, say, Ohio. A few states (like Iowa or Illinois) require the signer to also be in-state, but major platforms route around those restrictions by just using a notary from elsewhere. In general, if you’re a U.S. citizen or resident with a U.S. ID, you can use online notarization services without issue.

If you check off the above items, you’re ready to notarize online. In summary, you need a valid ID, internet-enabled device with video, a method to pay, and your document. The platforms are designed to guide you through these requirements step by step, so don’t worry if you’re not tech-savvy – it’s user-friendly!​

What Documents Can (and Can’t) Be Notarized Online?

Most common documents that require notarization can be notarized online. For example, you can remotely notarize:

• Affidavits and Sworn Statements: e.g. affidavits of identity, proof of execution, etc.​
• Power of Attorney documents and Trusts: Financial and healthcare powers of attorney, living wills (with some state exceptions)​.
• Real Estate Documents: Mortgage documents, deeds (Quitclaim, Warranty Deeds), property transfers​.
• Financial Agreements: Loan agreements, promissory notes, bill of sale​.
• Family Documents: Parental consent forms (for travel, medical), marriage separation agreements (except in some states)​.
• Business Documents: Articles of incorporation, business contracts, trademark assignments​. Essentially, anything that you’d normally take to a notary – from title transfers to permission slips – you can likely do online. Online notary platforms often provide libraries of popular document templates (e.g., Notarize.com and LawDepot have libraries for things like affidavits, power of attorney, USPS forms, etc., which you can fill and notarize on the spot​).

However, there are a few exceptions to be aware of. Documents that generally cannot be notarized online (often due to state laws or special requirements) include:

• Wills and Testamentary Trusts: Many states require wills to be notarized in person or have other witnessing formalities. Some states are starting to allow electronic wills with RON, but it’s not universal. (LawDepot, for instance, does not allow wills or codicils on their platform​.)
• Vital Records and Copies of Vital Documents: Birth, marriage, and death certificates, or any “true copies” of official records cannot be notarized by a notary in any setting (online or offline)​. Only the issuing government agency can provide certified copies.
• Documents for Use Outside the U.S.: If you need to notarize a document that will be used in another country, an online U.S. notarization may not be accepted. Often those require an apostille or consular notarization. (LawDepot explicitly notes they cannot notarize documents for use outside the U.S.​.)
• Certain State-Specific Restricted Documents: Some states carve out specific forms that their notaries cannot notarize online. For example, Illinois and Arkansas don’t allow online notarization of documents related to real estate title (like deeds) by their notaries. Some states like Florida prohibit remote notarization of certain family law documents (e.g., divorce or adoption papers) to be safe. Always check your state’s RON laws if unsure.

For the vast majority of personal, business, and real estate documents, online notarization is perfectly suitable and legally valid. If you have a unique document type (say, a will or foreign document), you may need to seek an alternative (like a specialized attorney or in-person notary for that case). But those are the exception, not the rule. When using a platform, you can usually find guidance on which documents are allowed or restricted on that service.

How to Become an Online Notary (and State-by-State Differences)

Perhaps you’re not just interested in using an online notary service, but also curious about becoming a remote online notary yourself. With the rise of RON, commissioned notaries around the country are expanding their services online. The process to become an online notary varies by state, but here’s a general overview and some examples:

General Requirements to Become an Online Notary

1. Be a Commissioned Notary Public: First, you must already be a traditional notary. States require you to hold an active notary public commission before you can apply to do online notarizations​. So if you’re not a notary yet, you’ll need to go through your state’s notary commissioning process (application, exam if required, background check, oath, bond, etc.).
2. Apply or Register for RON Authorization: Most states require notaries to file an application or registration to perform RON. This might be with the Secretary of State or other commissioning authority. Often it’s a form where you provide information about the RON technology platform you intend to use and certify you meet the requirements. Some states charge a small application fee (e.g. $50 in Texas for RON authorization​, $60 in New York​, etc.).
3. RON-Specific Training or Exam (if required): A number of states mandate a training course or exam specifically on remote notarization procedures. For example, Florida requires a 2-hour state-approved RON course that you must complete and pass a quiz on ​National Notary. Other states like California (in the future) or Pennsylvania may have education requirements as well. Many states, however, do not require a separate RON exam – they rely on your general notary knowledge and perhaps some guidance material.
4. Technology and Equipment: You’ll need to have the tech tools for performing RON. This includes a computer with webcam, secure internet, etc., and importantly a digital certificate and electronic notary seal. States require online notaries to use an approved digital certificate (a form of electronic credential that attaches to your e-signature to prove it’s you) and an electronic version of your notary seal​. These are obtained through authorized vendors. Additionally, you must use a compliant RON platform that provides identity proofing, recording, and storage per state standards​. Often the application will ask you to name the RON platform provider you plan to use.
5. Additional Notary Bond/Insurance (if required): A few states require online notaries to carry a higher bond or an Errors & Omissions insurance policy because of the increased responsibility. Florida, for instance, requires a $25,000 notary bond (instead of the usual $7,500 bond) and a $25,000 E&O insurance policy for remote notaries​. These protect the public and you, respectively, in case of notarization errors or fraud. Other states typically stick to their regular notary bond requirements.
6. Maintain Records: Once you’re commissioned as an online notary, states often require you to keep an electronic journal and recording of each notarization. You’ll need storage for the videos (many platforms handle this in the cloud for you) and to log each act in an electronic journal (some states let you keep a traditional journal, but electronic is encouraged or required for RON).

After completing the above and being approved, the state will issue you some confirmation – an endorsement, commission number, or certificate – indicating you are authorized to perform remote online notarizations. Your RON authority typically lasts as long as your notary commission (and will renew when you renew your notary commission, sometimes with another fee).

State-by-State Examples

To illustrate differences, let’s look at a few specific states’ processes:

Texas – Simple Application: Texas was an early adopter of RON and has a straightforward process. To become an online notary in Texas, you:

• Must already be a Texas notary in good standing.
• Obtain a digital certificate and electronic seal that meet state requirements.
• Choose a RON provider platform (Texas doesn’t dictate which, but you must use one that meets state security standards).
• Fill out the online notary application form and pay $50 to the Secretary of State​.
• Use your digital certificate to electronically sign the Statement of Officer included in the application.
• The state typically emails approval within 3 business days​.

Texas does not require any extra training or exam for RON​. Once approved, your online notary commission expires the same date as your regular notary commission. Texas online notaries must follow all the record-keeping rules (video recording, electronic journal, etc.) but the entry to RON is relatively easy in Texas.

Florida – Training & Higher Insurance: Florida’s process has a few more steps:

• You must be a Florida notary (or civil-law notary or justice of the peace) already.
• Complete a 2-hour RON training course approved by the state and get a certificate of completion.
• Obtain a $25,000 surety bond and $25,000 E&O insurance (in addition to the standard $7,500 bond for traditional notaries)​.
• Have a contract with an approved RON technology provider before applying​. Essentially, you line up which platform you’ll use (and they must meet Florida’s technical standards for identity proofing and recording).
• Submit a registration application to the Florida Department of State along with the $10 fee, your training certificate, and proof of your bond and insurance​.
• Once registered, your commission for online notarizations runs concurrently with your notary term (4 years in FL). You must keep an electronic journal and audio-video recordings of all sessions for 10 years.

Florida imposes these extra requirements to ensure security (hence the high bond) and that notaries are well-prepared (training course). It’s a bit more up-front work, but Florida also allows online notaries to charge a separate technology fee to clients, which can offset these costs. As of 2023, Florida notaries can charge up to $25 for the notarization plus an actual cost of remote technology fee (often around $20–$30 extra) to the signer. That means as a FL online notary you could potentially charge more per notarization than many other states (where $25 is the cap).

New York – New as of 2023: New York only recently (2023) enabled RON, so it’s a newer process:

• You must be an NY commissioned notary and pass a notary exam (NY has an exam for all notaries).
• Register with the NY Department of State for electronic notarization by paying a $60 registration fee​. This is done through an online system. Starting Jan 31, 2023, notaries could begin to register.
• You must indicate what RON platform/technology you will use that meets NY’s standards. NY requires the platform to, among other things, allow credential analysis, identity proofing, and keep a journal and recording.
• Obtain an electronic notary journal (NY requires an e-journal; you can’t use just a paper journal)​.
• After registration, you’ll receive a unique Electronic Notary commission number from the state​. Then you’re set to notarize online for NY signers.
• NY requires that when performing a remote notarization, the notary themselves be physically located in New York State (signers can be anywhere). This is an important condition: if you’re an NY online notary, you can’t perform a notarization while you’re on vacation in another state; you must be in-state during the act​.
• NY also has specific rules like requiring an audio-visual recording and that you keep that recording for 10 years. There’s no extra bond requirement beyond the normal $15,000 bond for notaries (NY’s bond is optional but recommended).

California – Coming Soon (Eventually): California’s RON law (2022’s SB 696) will require:

• California notaries to complete a training and exam for RON.
• Use a state-approved platform.
• It sets a maximum fee of $25 per notarization and requires a journal and recordings. However, as noted, the law’s implementation is delayed until technical regulations are put in place (which could be several years​). So while Californians cannot become online notaries just yet, they will have a process in the future.

Other States: Most other states fall somewhere between the Texas model and Florida model. For instance:

• Virginia: Simple notification and registration, no extra exam.
• Pennsylvania: Requires a RON training course and exam.
• Ohio: Requires an application and a $135 fee, plus a training course, and has a cap of $25 fee per act by law.
• Michigan: Application and $20 fee, no extra training, must use approved vendor.
• Nevada: Application with $50 fee and a required instruction course on RON.
• Illinois: As of 2022, allows RON with application, requires special software approval, etc., and limits notaries to using Illinois-approved platforms.

The table below highlights differences for becoming an online notary in a few major states:

As you can see, the core idea is the same everywhere: you need to be a notary and then get approved to perform online notarizations, but the specific hoops to jump through differ. Always check your own state’s Secretary of State or Notary Commission website for the exact up-to-date requirements to become an online notary, as new regulations can update the process.

Tip: Organizations like the National Notary Association (NNA) offer state-specific guides and courses to help notaries get their RON certification. You can often find step-by-step instructions tailored to your state​.

How Much Do Online Notaries Make? (Earnings & Income Potential)

If you’re considering offering online notarization services (either as a freelance notary or a side hustle), you’re probably curious about the earning potential. Online notary income can vary widely based on volume, fees, and how you operate, but here are some key points:

• Standard Fees per Notarization: In most states, the maximum fee a notary may charge for an online notarization is around $25–$30 per notarized act. Many platforms set the price about $25 for the signer, which the platform and notary then split. For example, Notarize charges the customer $25 for a one-document notarization​; OneNotary also charges $25 per notarization​; NotaryLive advertises $25 per session​. As an independent online notary, if your state allows, you could charge clients up to the state’s max (e.g. $25 in Ohio, $25 in Florida plus tech fee, $10 in Virginia per seal, etc.). Most RON notarizations for consumers are in the $25-$40 range for a single document.
• Platform Share vs. Independent: If you work through a platform (like as an on-demand notary for Notarize or BluNotary’s network), you might get a set portion of that fee (often around half, though models differ). If you source clients yourself, you keep whatever fee you charge (minus any platform usage costs or subscription). Some states also allow charging a separate “technology fee” in addition to the notarization fee, which can increase what you earn on one transaction.
• Earnings per Notarization: Generally, online notaries earn roughly $25-$75 per notarization​. $25 is common for simple consumer documents. Higher amounts (up to $75) come into play for more complex notarizations or those involving multiple seals or extensive documents (for example, a mortgage closing with multiple notarized pages might net more). Experienced notaries who specialize (like real estate loan signing agents) often charge premium rates on a per-assignment basis, which can far exceed $25 per stamp.

To give a clearer picture, below is an overview of typical fee ranges for different notary services (based on industry data and examples):

The real earning potential comes with volume and efficiency. Because online notarizations are quick, a single notary could perform many in a day. Let’s look at some scenarios:

• If you notarize just 5 documents a day at ~$30 each, that’s about $150/day. Over a typical work week, that’s ~$750/week, or about $39,000 per year​.
• At 10 notarizations a day at $50 each (perhaps a mix of standard and some higher fee jobs), that’s $500/day or $130,000 per year working full-time​.
• Ambitious scenario: 15 notarizations a day at $75 each (high volume, perhaps working long hours or serving nationwide clients) could yield ~$1,125/day, which scales to over $290,000 per year. (Many notaries won’t hit this level consistently, but it shows the upper range if demand and availability align.)

Keep in mind these are gross figures; if you’re working through a platform, you might only receive a portion. If you’re independent, you have to subtract any platform costs (some RON platforms charge notaries per transaction or a monthly fee). Also, you might not have a steady stream of clients when starting out.

Factors that influence your income as an online notary include:

• Location & Demand: Notaries in high-demand states or urban areas often have more opportunities. States like California or New York (high real estate activity) can bring more clients (even if you notarize them from another state)​. But note, if you’re commissioned in a state like California which hasn’t implemented RON yet, you can’t serve as a RON there – many CA notaries got commissioned in other states or are waiting for the law. However, signers in those states generate demand for out-of-state notaries. Rural notaries might have fewer local clients, but online work allows reaching nationwide clients.
• Experience & Certifications: As you become more experienced, you can handle quicker sessions and attract repeat or referral clients. Specializing can boost income – e.g., becoming a certified Notary Signing Agent for mortgages, or focusing on attorneys or healthcare clients. Specialized knowledge lets you charge higher fees within allowed limits, and clients are often willing to schedule with you specifically for reliability.
• Availability & Volume: The more hours you make yourself available (especially during peak times or around deadlines), the more notarizations you can accumulate. Many full-time online notaries set specific hours on multiple platforms to catch as many signers as possible. If you can efficiently do 10+ notarizations a day, the revenue adds up fast. Conversely, if you treat it as a side gig and only do a few a week, it will be a more modest supplemental income.
• Platform vs. Self-Marketing: If you join a large platform’s notary network (e.g., as a Notarize On-Demand notary or BluNotary’s notary pool), the platform will send you customers but also take a cut. If you market your own services (say via your website, Google ads, or networking with local businesses), you could keep more of the fee but you have to find those customers. Many notaries do both – work with a platform for volume and cultivate direct clients.
• State Fee Limits: Always remember, you cannot charge more than your state’s law allows per notarization (aside from permitted ancillary fees). For instance, Ohio caps online notary fees at $25 by law​. So even if a client might value the service at $50, an Ohio notary can’t exceed $25 (though they could make up by doing more sessions per day). Knowing your state’s fee schedule is crucial.

Many online notaries report that while you won’t typically get rich overnight, it’s quite possible to make a solid side income of a few hundred extra dollars a month. With dedication, some turn it into a full-time business with six-figure annual income​. The flexibility of working from home and setting your own hours is a big draw.

For example, an online notary might partner with a busy law firm or real estate office to handle all their clients’ notarizations virtually – providing steady work. Loan signing agents who notarize mortgage documents via RON can earn $75-150 per signing from title companies (though some of that involves coordinating multiple signers and documents).

To maximize income:

• Diversify Services: Offer specialized notarizations (like loan signings, estate plans) and even related services like witnessing or document prep to add value​.
• Use Multiple Platforms: Some notaries sign up on several RON platforms to catch more signers.
• Leverage Your Availability: Being available for late-night or urgent notarizations can set you apart – people will pay for immediate service at odd hours, which you can fulfill online.
• Build Reviews: As with any service, positive reviews (on Trustpilot, Google, etc.) and ratings on platforms will get you more business over time​.

In conclusion, the earning potential is there, and it scales with your effort and business savvy. Whether it’s a convenient side hustle or a primary business, online notarization has opened new streams of income for notaries who embrace technology.

Comparison of Top Online Notary Platforms (Including BluNotary)

There are now numerous platforms offering online notarization services. Each has its own features and approach. Below is a comparison of major online notary providers, including BluNotary and other top-ranking services that come up for “online notary” searches, to help you see how they differ.

*Pricing note: The listed prices are for a standard single-document notarization for one signer. Actual fees can vary if you have multiple documents, additional signers, or require extra services (additional seals, witnesses, etc.). Many platforms charge roughly $25 for a basic session, mirroring typical state fee limits​. Business or volume users often can get lower per-notarization rates via subscriptions or bulk packages. Always check the latest pricing on the provider’s website, as these can change with promotions or state law adjustments.

Analysis of Approaches: Each platform above has a slightly different approach:

• BluNotary leans into trust, security, and modernizing the notary profession (even featuring a “Letter from the CEO” about their ethos). They position themselves as cutting-edge (for example, emphasizing reduced fraud and efficiency gains like 80% fewer errors with automated workflows)​. This appeals to users and businesses that value security and reliability highly.
• Notarize (the market leader) uses its track record and network effect as a selling point – it’s “battle-tested” with many satisfied users and is integrated into many large companies’ processes. Individuals might choose it for brand recognition alone.
• NotaryLive and OneNotary both focus on user experience for individuals, promising a very fast and hassle-free process, while also offering business options. They compete on being approachable and cost-effective.
• OnlineNotary Center clearly targets both individuals and enterprises, with flexible pricing tiers. They market compliance and support, likely to attract businesses (like banks, car dealerships, etc.) that need a reliable partner.
• LawDepot distinguishes itself by tying into document creation – capturing users who are in the DIY document process and offering notarization as the final step.

All these services are legally valid and use commissioned notaries to perform the notarizations. The differences come down to pricing models, user interface, and ancillary features (like template libraries, API integrations, etc.). For a consumer with a one-off need, any of the first four would do the job similarly, with cost and convenience being prime. For a business, factors like bulk pricing, API access, and dashboard features might make one platform more appealing than another.

Conclusion: Embracing the Future of Notarization

By now, you should have a comprehensive understanding of online notarization – what it is, how it works, the legal landscape, how to get started as an online notary, and which platforms lead the industry. Remote online notarization is here to stay as a convenient, secure alternative to the old way of notarizing on paper. It saves time, cuts costs, and expands access to notarial services for people everywhere.

Whether you’re a consumer who needs a quick notarization for an important document, or an aspiring notary looking to expand your services and income, the online notary revolution offers tremendous benefits. You can notarize anytime, anywhere – from notarizing a power of attorney for your elderly parent via webcam, to closing on a home without traveling for a notary, to earning extra money as a commissioned online notary handling signers nationwide.

As with any legal service, make sure you choose reputable platforms and follow your state laws if you’re a notary. This guide has highlighted that all states accept online notarizations, but each state has its own rules for notaries. Staying informed (for example, through resources like the NNA or your state’s notary handbook) will ensure you remain compliant and confident whether you’re using or performing an online notarization.

BluNotary, as showcased, is one of the innovative platforms leading this digital transformation. If you value a combination of security, speed, and user-friendly design, you might consider giving BluNotary a try for your next notarization. They, along with other top platforms, have made the process so straightforward that notarizing a document can truly be a “10-minute solution” instead of a day-long errand​.

In summary, online notary services take an age-old trusted process and supercharge it with modern technology. It’s never been easier to get a document notarized or to serve clients as a notary. The pen-and-stamp may be giving way to the webcam and cryptographic seal, but the principle of trust and verification remains as strong as ever. Embrace the convenience of online notarization – you’ll wonder how you managed without it!