Identity Verification Requirements for Remote Online Notarization (RON)
The signer must have a valid identification and be able to provide a U.S. residential address and Social Security number to complete the ID verification process. The process involves two key steps:- Credential Analysis: The signer must present a government-issued identification (ID) card, such as a driver's license or passport. This ID will be thoroughly analyzed for authenticity using advanced verification technology.
- Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA): The signer must answer a series of questions based on their personal history to verify their identity. These questions are generated from a combination of public and private data sources and are designed to ensure the signer's identity.
- If the signer does not have a valid ID, they will need two credible witnesses who can vouch for their identity to proceed.
Credible Witnesses Requirements for Remote Online Notarization (RON)
A signer who does not meet the ID eligibility requirements will need two credible witnesses to verify their identity. They must provide two U.S. citizens who know them personally, have a Social Security number, and a current U.S. residential address. These witnesses will need to participate in the ID verification process and join the meeting to take an oath as credible witnesses.Credible witnesses must:
- Know the signer personally.
- Be willing to undergo ID verification.
- Appear at the signing to take a legal oath.
- Have no financial interest in the document being signed.
- Have a Social Security Number and a current U.S. residential address.
Information Required to Set Up Your Remote Online Notarization Appointment
To ensure a smooth and efficient setup for your Remote Online Notarization (RON) appointment, please provide the following information based on your needs:If the Signer Does Not Need Credible Witnesses
- Full Legal Name: Please provide the signer's complete legal name as it appears on their identification.
- Email Address: Provide a valid email address for the signer to receive appointment details and further instructions.
- Signer’s Full Legal Name: Provide the signer's complete legal name as it appears on their identification.
- Signer’s Email Address: Provide a valid email address for the signer to receive appointment details and further instructions.
- Signer’s Residential Address: Provide the signer's current residential address.
- Credible Witnesses’ Full Legal Names: Provide the full legal names of both credible witnesses.
- Credible Witnesses’ Email Addresses: Provide valid email addresses for both credible witnesses to receive appointment details and further instructions.
- Credible Witnesses’ Residential Addresses: Provide the current residential addresses of both credible witnesses.
Technical Requirements for Remote Online Notarization (RON)
To participate in Remote Online Notarization, ensure your device meets the following requirements:Desktop Computers
- Requirements: Webcam, microphone, and speakers. A stable internet connection is essential.
- Operating Systems: Windows or macOS.
Laptops
- Requirements: Built-in or external webcam, microphone, and speakers. Reliable internet is needed.
- Operating Systems: Windows or macOS.
Tablets
- Requirements: Front-facing camera, microphone, and speakers. Must support the video conferencing platform.
- Operating Systems: iOS (iPad) or Android.
Smartphones
- Requirements: Front-facing camera, microphone, and speakers. Must support the video conferencing app and have a stable internet connection.
- Operating Systems: iOS or Android.
Additional Considerations for Remote Online Notarization (RON)
- Internet Connection: High-speed and stable for smooth communication. Connect directly to a stable and secure internet network without using a VPN.
- Browser Compatibility: Use a modern browser like Chrome, Firefox, or Safari. Avoid private or incognito mode to prevent issues with the notarization platform.
- Software/Apps: Ensure the latest version of the video conferencing software or app is installed. Verify compatibility with the RON platform and security requirements.
- Security: Keep security patches and antivirus software up-to-date to protect against unauthorized access and cyber threats.
- Credit Report Freezes: Ensure there are no credit report freezes as they can interfere with the ID verification process.
- Verifying Address: Use the address where you receive mail, such as bills and taxes, for ID verification.
Documents That Cannot Be Done Online with New York RON
Certain documents are not eligible for Remote Online Notarization (RON) in New York due to specific legal requirements or formalities. The following documents generally cannot be notarized online:- Wills and Codicils: Due to the unique requirements for executing and witnessing wills, these documents typically cannot be completed via RON in New York.
- Trusts: Similar to wills, trusts require specific formalities and witness requirements that may not be suitable for remote notarization.
- Powers of Attorney: While some powers of attorney can be notarized online, others may require in-person notarization depending on their complexity and the nature of the authority granted.
- Documents Requiring In-Person Identification: Any documents that require in-person identification or physical presence of the signer may not be suitable for remote notarization.
