Yes, online notary services are legal in California as of January 1, 2020. The state passed Senate Bill 263, which allows remote notarization to take place via audio-video technology. This means individuals can have their documents notarized online by a commissioned notary public without having to be physically present.
What are the requirements for online notarization in California?
For an online notarization to be legal in California, certain requirements must be met:
- The notary must be physically located in California at the time of the notarization.
- The signer must be located in California.
- The notarization must occur using audio-video communication technology.
- The notary must confirm the identity of the signer using satisfactory evidence.
Can any document be notarized online in California?
Not all documents can be notarized online in California. The following types of documents are not eligible for online notarization:
- Wills
- Codicils to wills
- Trusts
- Health care directives
How secure is online notarization in California?
Online notarization in California is secure, as measures are put in place to ensure the authenticity and integrity of the process. The audio-video technology used must be secure and capable of recording the notarization session. Notaries are also required to keep records of all online notarizations.
Are there any additional fees for online notarization in California?
Notaries in California are allowed to charge an additional fee for online notarizations. The maximum fee that can be charged for an electronic notarization is $25 per signature.
How does online notarization benefit individuals in California?
Online notarization offers convenience and flexibility to individuals in California. They can have their documents notarized from the comfort of their own homes without having to travel to a physical location. This can save time and reduce the hassle of scheduling appointments with notaries.
Are there any limitations to online notarization in California?
While online notarization is legal in California, there are limitations to the types of documents that can be notarized online. Certain sensitive documents such as wills and trusts require in-person notarization to ensure the authenticity and integrity of the process.
How can individuals find a reliable online notary in California?
Individuals looking for a reliable online notary in California can use various online platforms that offer remote notarization services. It is important to verify the notary’s commission status and ensure they are following all legal requirements for online notarization in the state.
In conclusion, online notarization is legal in California and offers convenience and flexibility to individuals in need of notarization services. By following the necessary requirements and utilizing secure technology, individuals can have their documents notarized online with confidence.