In the age of digital technology, notarization has also gone digital. Washington State offers two different types of notarization services: electronic notarization and remote notarization. In this blog post, we will discuss in detail what electronic notarization and remote notarization are, and what sets them apart.
What is Electronic Notarization?
Electronic notarization is a process of notarizing documents using electronic signatures and digital certificates. Both the signer and notary public must be present in the same physical location, but the document is signed electronically, and the notary public affixes their electronic notary seal to the document. This process is used for documents that need to be signed and transmitted electronically, such as contracts or agreements.
Electronic notarization is a convenient and efficient way to notarize documents, especially when the signers and notaries are in different locations. The electronic notary public is required to comply with the Washington State Electronic Notary Public Act and follow all the state's rules and regulations.
What is Remote Notarization?
Remote notarization, on the other hand, is a process of notarizing documents for remotely located individuals using audio-video technology. Unlike electronic notarization, the signer and notary public are not in the same physical location. Instead, they use audio and video communication technology to communicate and verify identities.
Remote notarization is typically used for documents that require notarization, but the signer cannot be physically present in the same location as the notary. For instance, if a person is traveling overseas, they can still have their documents notarized by a Washington State remote notary public.
Key Differences between Electronic Notarization and Remote Notarization
The main difference between electronic notarization and remote notarization is the location of the signer and notary public. In electronic notarization, both parties must be physically present in the same location, while remote notarization allows for notarization to be performed from a remote location. The signer and notary public connect using audio-video technology, which eliminates the need for physical presence.
Additionally, notaries who offer remote notarization services must be authorized and follow specific guidelines and requirements set forth by the state of Washington.
Conclusion
In conclusion, electronic notarization and remote notarization are two different types of notarization services available in Washington State. Both types of notarization use technology to facilitate the notarization process, but they have different requirements and processes. If you need to notarize a document, make sure you understand the differences between electronic notarization and remote notarization to choose the right option for your needs.