What is the Difference Between Remote Online Notarization (RON) and Remote Ink-Signed Notarization (RIN)
For years, advancements in technology have helped the real estate industry become more automated and consumer-friendly. Things like virtual showings, listing portals, and chat interfaces are now commonplace. Title companies are implementing tools that facilitate digital closings, which makes the transaction easier on buyers, sellers, real estate agents, and title agents. However, bringing the notarization process into the digital landscape has been a constant struggle. Notary laws have traditionally required the process to take place in person, but the COVID-19 crisis has made it necessary for notarization to be performed digitally in order to adhere to social distancing guidelines.
Two methods now being used to get required closing documents notarized are Remote Online Notarization (RON) and Remote Ink-Signed Notarization (RIN). Both utilize digital tools that allow the notary public and signee to conduct the notarization remotely. If your title company is looking for ways to complete digital closings while staying safe, one of these options should work for you. Let’s take a closer look at RON and RIN.
Understanding Remote Online Notarization
To ensure notarizations could continue with shelter-in-place ordinances in effect throughout the country, the SECURE Notarization Act was introduced to the Senate in March. As a result, many states are now allowing RON, which is coming in handy when a real estate closing is drawing near and documents need official notarization.
With RON, a dedicated platform is used that brings together video conferencing tools and multi-factor verification identification methods. This allows the notary and signee to see and speak to each other remotely while completing the notarization. The digital documents are then signed in real-time using an electronic signature. Hardcopies of the documents aren’t required and transmission can be done via email once the RON process is complete. If this sounds like a fitting solution for your title company, make sure your state currently allows the use of it.
Understanding Remote Ink-Signed Notarization
While RON fully digitizes the notarization process, remote ink-signed notarization involves a physical signature. During a RIN, a video meeting program such as Zoom or GoToMeeting allows the signee to appear before the notary so identity verification can take place based on state notary laws. However, instead of using an electronic signature, the signee completes and signs the physical documents with a pen as the notary watches. The documents are then sent to the notary via fax, electronically, or through the use of a delivery service. After the notary receives the documents, they can apply their notarial seal or stamp. This is all done without in-person interaction.
Complete Digital Closings With RON or RIN
If your title company is having a hard time getting closing documents notarized during the COVID-19 pandemic, you have options. Remote Online Notarization and Remote Ink-Signed Notarization allow all parties to stay safe while completing a real estate transaction. Use the information discussed above and decide which method works best for you.
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