In-Person vs. Online Notary Services 

Notarization  |    Oct 04, 2024      | By: Harbir Singh

As the years pass, technological advancements are changing the way services around the world are provided. The notarization world has seen some of these changes, creating a more efficient and convenient way for finding a notary near you. In fact, the Notary Public no longer needs to be a notary near you, and instead you can benefit from the convenience of the world of online notarization services.

Understandably, many people still worry that online notarization is unsafe and try to avoid it as much as possible. Below we will explain why this is a myth, and help you understand the pros and cons of each option.

In-Person vs. Online Notarization Services

In the traditional version of notary services, person(s) appears in-person and meet with the Notary Public. The person(s) verifies their identity via a government identification document, for example, a drivers license or passport. The document is reviewed and the person signing the document, usually takes an oath or declaration before signing the document. After a Notary Public is sure that the requirements have been met, they will complete the witnessing process and seal/ stamp/ sign the document.

In comparison, online notary services offer a more convenient and efficient process. It can be done from your phone or computer. The online process also provides enhanced security and have there are less chances of any mistakes occurring during the notarization process. More information is provided on this below under the online notary section. Person(s) in need of notary services just need to choose the date/time that works for them, and our team can book you in for an appointment.

In-person Notarization:  Advantages/ Benefits

Walk-in appointment

Depending upon where you are located, it may be a convenient option for you to do a walk-in appointment to a Notary Public, instead of booking an online appointment. Our office is in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), which is close to many people looking for a “notary near me.”

Peace of Mind

Understandably, there are those who are more comfortable with the traditional process because it gives them a peace of mind. By seeing the process completed in front of them, they feel more comfortable and content. Therefore, many people still choose the traditional in-person notarization method when they type in notary near me, on their phones.

Recognition by the receiver of document

Since online remote notarization is still a recent new process, there are certain provinces and organizations that do not accept documents that have been remotely notarized. It is best practice to confirm beforehand, whether your document can be remotely notarized, or requires in-person notarization. Our team can assist you with confirming this, with the receiver of the document.

Online Notarization - Advantages/ Benefits

Avoiding Errors

With the advancement of technology, there are less chances of errors occurring during the notarization process. The technology we use, helps to avoid spellings errors on your document, as well as any potential missed signatures. If you are looking for a notary near you, you may instead benefit from the online notarization process and avoid errors on your document(s).

Prevent Fraud

During the online notarization process, we use an automated identity verification process, which decreases the risks of any fraud taking place. Whereas in-person notary services near you, consist of a manual identity verification process. If you are looking for an online notary, our team can book you for an appointment at a time that fits your schedule.

Save on time and travel costs

When looking for a notary near you, depending on where you are located, there could be additional costs associated. Examples of these costs are travel costs, uber, gas, bus fare, etc. There is also an additional expense of time associated with in-person notarization. Our online notarization services can help you avoid these additional costs and provide you with the convenience of remote notary services.

Which is the better option?

When choosing between in-person or online notarization, the better option depends on your personal circumstances. Factors that can affect your decision are things like: 

Type of Document

Before choosing an option, verify whether your document requires in-person notarization or if it can be notarized online. If you are unsure, feel free to give us a call, and we can help you confirm this information.

Your Schedule and Location

Look at your schedule and see if you can benefit from the convenience of online notarization. The process can be completed from where you are, saving you travel time. Also, if you are located somewhere, where there is no notary near you, then you can benefit from online notarization instead.

Choosing HSB Legal Services & Notary Public – Provides You With Peace Of Mind and Same-day Appointments

When in need of a Notary Public, we are here for you 7 days a week, feel free to contact us today if you are looking for notarization services. We offer both In-Person and Online Notarization. We can help you decide which options best suits you.

Our notary services are available whether you are looking for a Notary in Mississauga, Notary in Vaughan, Notary in Brampton, Notary in Oakville, Notary in Malton, Notary in Mississauga, Notary in Toronto and Notary in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Our services are available all over Canada as well, and other parts of the world if you are looking for online notary services.

Frequently Asked Questions

1.      Are online notary services legal?

The answer is, yes, online notary services are legal in many parts of the world. As mentioned above, it is best practice to ensure the receiver of your document will accept online notarization services. Also, have a look at your local laws and regulations when deciding between in-person notary or online notary services, when looking for notary services. 

2.      Is the online notary process safe?

Overall, the online notarization process is a safe process. The rules & regulations governing the process require certain security measures and provisions to be in place. This increases the safety measures a Notary Public needs to have in place when providing online notarization services.

3.      How much does online notarization cost?

Depending on how many documents you need notarized, the price can vary. Our price begins at $39.99 per notarization needed.