How to Notarize Online Contracts and Agreements

alissacpthenotary
Sep 21
2 min read

The way we do business has shifted dramatically in recent years. More contracts and agreements are created, signed, and stored online than ever before. With this shift comes the need for notarization in a digital space. Thanks to Remote Online Notarization (RON) and e-notary laws, notarizing contracts electronically is now faster, safer, and widely recognized. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to notarize online contracts and agreements.

1. Understand the Legal Framework

Remote Online Notarization (RON): Allows notaries and signers to meet virtually via a secure video platform. Both the document and the notarial act happen entirely online.
Electronic Notarization (e-notarization): Still requires the notary and signer to be physically together but uses digital signatures and electronic seals instead of paper.
State Laws Matter: Not all states allow RON. Always confirm your state’s specific rules before proceeding.

2. Steps to Notarize Online Contracts

✅ Step 1: Upload the Document

The signer uploads the unsigned contract or agreement to a secure RON platform. Popular platforms include Notarize, SIGNiX, and DocVerify.

✅ Step 2: Identity Verification

The signer’s identity is confirmed through:

Knowledge-based authentication (answering personal security questions).
Uploading a valid government-issued ID.
Sometimes, facial recognition technology for added security.

✅ Step 3: Virtual Meeting with the Notary

The signer meets the notary via a secure video call. The notary confirms identity, ensures the signer understands the document, and verifies they are signing willingly.

✅ Step 4: Sign the Contract

The signer applies their electronic signature in front of the notary.

✅ Step 5: Apply Notarial Seal

The notary completes the notarial certificate, attaches their digital seal, and finalizes the notarization.

✅ Step 6: Receive Completed Document

The fully notarized contract is delivered electronically to all parties. The platform also stores a tamper-evident copy, and the video session is often archived as required by law.

3. Benefits of Online Notarization for Contracts

Convenience: No need to schedule in-person meetings.
Speed: Documents can be notarized within minutes, even across time zones.
Security: Tamper-proof digital seals and recorded sessions add extra protection.
Global Accessibility: Ideal for international clients, employees, or business partners.

4. Best Practices for Online Notarization

Always use a state-approved and secure RON platform.
Double-check whether the receiving party accepts electronically notarized documents.
Keep backup copies in both digital and physical formats when possible.
Never skip ID verification steps—compliance is key to legal recognition.

Final Thoughts

Online notarization is transforming how we handle contracts and agreements. By embracing secure platforms, following state laws, and maintaining professionalism, notaries can help businesses and individuals close deals faster and with greater peace of mind.