This process is completed similarly to getting it notarized in person. You will still need to have a prepared power of attorney document, a valid government ID and the capability to meet with the notary via video conference (usually through a computer with a webcam and microphone).
The P.O.A. Document
Ensure that your power of attorney document is completely filled out and that it matches your intent. The online notary is not allowed to modify or change the substance of the document. It is critical that you only seek to get it notarized once it is truly ready and complete.
The Meeting Part One: ID Verification
You will be required to verify your government ID and identity by taking a picture of the ID. It will then be reviewed (usually by AI) to determine its authenticity. You may also be presented with a series of questions to determine that you are the true owner of the ID you are presenting. These questions are gathered based on public information available about you (previous addresses, phone numbers, vehicle titles, real estate records, etc.).
The Meeting Part Two: The Actual Notarization
Once your identify has been verified and you state to the notary that you are signing the Power of Attorney of your own free will then they will proceed to complete the process by applying their seal, signature and a digital certificate which “locks” your document. The document can no longer be edited and if it forced to be changed it will display a security error stating that the document cannot be declared to be an original non-edited version.
At this point each notary works differently but there will usually be a payment made and the document will be emailed/made available for download. Be sure to download the document immediately and save it, and a backup, in a secure folder on your computer as online notaries do not keep documents for more than a few days.
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