Embracing the Digital Wave:
The Future of Notarization
In a world where technology is revolutionizing every aspect of our lives, the world of notarization is no exception. Traditional pen-and-paper methods are gradually giving way to digital tools that offer convenience, efficiency, and security. As notaries adapt to this digital shift, they are discovering a wealth of innovative solutions that streamline their processes and enhance their capabilities. Let's explore some of these cutting-edge digital tools that are shaping the future of notarization.
1. Electronic Signature Platforms:
Electronic signature platforms like DocuSign, HelloSign( now dropbox sign), and Adobe Sign have become indispensable tools for notaries. These platforms allow documents to be signed digitally, eliminating the need for physical signatures. Not only do they offer convenience and speed, but they also ensure the integrity of documents through encryption and authentication mechanisms.
2. Remote Online Notarization (RON) Platforms:
RON platforms such as Cyberizeit, Notarize, and NotaryCam enable notaries to perform notarizations remotely via live video calls. This innovative approach eliminates the need for signers and notaries to be physically present in the same location, making notarization more accessible and convenient than ever before. With RON, notaries can serve clients across geographic boundaries, expanding their reach and business opportunities.
Please note: Not every state has fully adopted RON. Be sure to check your state's regulations and stance on this topic. To stay in the know, I would highly recommend you check out the California League of Independent Notaries, CLIN, which is not just for California notaries but helps keep you up to date about all 50 states' Notary legislation and changes. For a small membership fee, you also get the benefit of being on the CLIN notary database that has powerful SEO and will help get you seen and validated. Check them out here.
3. Blockchain-Based Notary Services:
Blockchain technology is revolutionizing notarization by providing an immutable ledger for storing notarized documents. Companies like Stampery and Notary offer blockchain-based notary services that ensure the authenticity and integrity of documents. By leveraging the decentralized nature of blockchain, these services provide tamper-proof evidence of notarization, enhancing trust and transparency in legal transactions. Read more about Blockchain technology here.
4. In-Person Electronic Notarization (IPEN) Solutions:
IPEN solutions combine the convenience of electronic signatures with the assurance of in-person verification by a notary public. Companies like Escrowtab, Blue IPEN, Docverify, Notary Cam, and Signx offer IPEN platforms that enable notaries to authenticate documents digitally while physically interacting with signers. This hybrid approach preserves the human element of notarization while harnessing the power of digital technology.
Again, Please Note: Not every state has the same laws regarding IPEN. You are responsible for checking with your state legislator on their rules and regulations regarding the use of IPEN services and platforms.
5. Digital Identity Verification Services:
Digital identity verification services such as ID.me and Jumio provide secure and reliable methods for verifying the identity of signers. These services use advanced biometric authentication techniques, including facial recognition and document scanning, to ensure that signers are who they claim to be. By integrating these services into their workflows, notaries can enhance the security and authenticity of their notarizations.
6. Digital Notary Journals
Digital notary journals are app-based journals. Instead of using traditional paper journals, these journals use digital platforms or apps to record each notarial act they perform. These platforms come with handy features such as timestamps and electronic signatures to ensure everything is accurate and secure. By using digital notary journals, notaries can simplify their record-keeping process, stay organized, and comply with regulations more easily. Plus, they can quickly access past records whenever needed. It's a convenient tool that makes life easier for notaries in today's digital world! My recommended digital notary journal is and will always be the NotaryEjournal from Jurartinc. Check out my interview with the founder and creator of the NotaryEjournal here. Again, check to ensure your state will accept the use of a digital journal. You can find the states that currently accept this journaling platform here on Juratinc’s webpage.
As the future of notarization goes digital, notaries must embrace these innovative tools to stay competitive and meet the evolving needs of their clients. By leveraging electronic signature platforms, RON platforms, blockchain-based notary services, IPEN solutions, digital journals, and digital identity verification services, notaries can streamline their processes, expand their reach, and enhance the security of their transactions. As technology continues to advance, the possibilities for digital notarization are limitless, promising a future where notarization is faster, easier, and more secure than ever before.
Jens Take: It's true; technological advances in the world of Notary Public are coming and coming fast. I still believe that no matter what your state has adopted, fraud deterrent and prevention is the first and longest-standing benefit to a Notary Public. I am a California notary; by the time 2030 rolls around, California may or may not adopt RON, so it is my responsibility to maintain the line that Notaries have held to since 20750 BC. When moving into digital and online notarizations, I will still work hard to make sure to do my utmost to prevent fraud during the notarization process.
Until Next Week, Stay diligent and educated about what technological advancements you can adopt today in your state.
Jennifer K. Cooper, JKC Mobile Notary
