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Remote Online Notarization (RON) and the Mobile Notary

The six hundred pound gorilla in the room is now the 6,000 pound gorilla. RON, or remote online notarization is here.

And it is about time we open our blinders and start talking about it.

This is the first in a series of how RON, or remote online notarization, will affect the mobile notary business, both ours and yours.

We are Late in the Game

Remote Online Notarization laws have spread like wildfire across the country this year. What was just a couple of states last year has turned into an avalanche this year.

The money behind the effort is just too much. The banks and venture capitalists just have too much to gain. And since no collective voice for notaries has stepped up and joined the fray to protect current notaries, most of the bills have gone unopposed through state senates and governor’s offices.

Unfortunately, RON has showed up at your house, taken your guest bedroom, and now you are going to have to live with him.

Is Remote Online Notarization the End?

Remote Online Notarization, or RON, brings changes to the Mobile Notary Industry

No.

Hell no.

But, you must understand, changes are coming and you must prepare your business for them, just like we must prepare our business for it.

We either adapt with the times, or we get passed by. We must embrace change, while working to take advantage of it.

Now, there are still a lot of things that can mean for your business. Are there going to be as many mobile signings? Probably not in the longer term. Will you be able to supplement mobile signings with remote online notarizations? How about new types of signings? That is something you are going to need to figure out for your business.

We Need to Work Together

Last year we did signings with over 40,000 notaries. 40,000 highly qualified notaries we still want to do business with.

As you all know, we are not some fly by night operation. Many of you we have been working with for years, even if it is just a few signings per year. Others in busier areas have signed a lot of documents with us, signings we are determined to keep.

Remote online notarizations, or RON, and mobile notaries

When the crash happened in 2007 and most everyone took a beating, we grew. When there has been a smaller downturn in the market the last couple of years, we grew. And with remote online notarization now standing ahead of us, with your help, we will continue to grow, and do our best to protect the interests of the tens of thousands of notaries we do business with.

But, just like you and your business, our businesses together are going to find a new win-win. We have no doubt that we will, and are working on it every. single. day.

So in the Face of Remote Online Notarization, How do we move forward with RON?

Did we mention this is going to be a multi part series, where we go into more details on specific areas?

But, plan ahead. Make a three month plan for your business, make a year long plan for your business and make a three year plan for your business.

Take variations of RON into account, and see how it affects your business. Then ask yourself how you are going to address it.

Remote online notarization may seem like a new world, and it is, but that does not mean that we cannot prosper that new world.

Make a plan for your business and start working towards it. Leverage your industry contacts to expand or find new opportunities.

The issue is not what is wrong with RON, but how we can use remote online notarization to our advantage.

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Louisiana Notary Exam Goes Digital

2025 will see notary accreditation head online. In spring, it will have sprung on all aspiring notaries.

The test may only be done at one location. It will be held at the Louisiana State University campus in Baton Rouge. It will be held multiple times each month and will replace the paper exam.

Notaries will be given additional time for each exam question. The exams will also be available more times each month than they are currently.

“We are very excited by this development. The new format will provide more opportunities to pass the examination, significantly shorten the wait-time for re-taking it, and allow for scores to be released faster. It is our hope that eventually we can make the examination available at other testing sites around the state,” Secretary Landry said.

Louisiana Notary Exam Goes Digital

Other testing sites would be a welcome addition for notaries. We’d imagine it is difficult for some to make the trip to Baton Rouge.

The final paper exam will be towards the end of January 2025. The 2025 edition of the notary study guide will be available in January on the Secretary of State’s website.

To find more information about the change please visit this page.

In the News – November 2024

Recording a Notary Commission Just Got Simpler in Philadelphia

We all love when things get easier.

For Notaries in Philadelphia, an important step was removed from the notary commission process. Previously, the commission had to be double recorded, first with the Philadelphia Department of Records, then again with the Office of Judicial Records.

The recording with the Office of Judicial Records has been removed. Notaries only need to file with the Department of Records now.

It is streamlined, more efficient and time saving. And who doesn’t like that.

Notary Called to the Stand During Medical Cannabis Trial

So, they are trying to get medical cannabis on the ballot in Nebraska. A Hall County man was charged with submitting fraudulent signatures.

Besides the circulator himself, as well as a forensic examiner, the notary had to testify at the trial.

It didn’t look good for the notary.

During examination, the notary was “advised to invoke his fifth amendment, against self-incrimination” on nearly all questions asked by the plaintiff attorney Justin Hall, requiring Judge Susan Strong to weigh in on each instance of pleading the fifth.

While there were a few questions where the fifth amendment was not invoked, overall it did not look good for the notary.

Questions included the notary’s involvement with the ballot initiative, as well as text interactions with organizers of the petition.

A simple reminder we do not post notary names and always give them the benefit of the doubt.

Building the Ultimate Mobile Office for Notary Public Loan Signing Agents

Are you a notary public loan signing agent looking to maximize your efficiency and profitability? A mobile office could be the game-changer you need. In this guide, we’ll walk you through building a mobile office, including vehicle selection, essential equipment, customization tips, and hacks to ensure your business runs smoothly on the go.

Why a Mobile Office?

A mobile office allows you to take your notary services directly to clients, saving time and increasing the number of appointments you can handle daily. Imagine printing documents right in the client’s driveway or having a dedicated workspace wherever you go. It’s all about efficiency and providing top-notch service.

Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Mobile Office

Building the Ultimate Mobile Office for Notary Public Loan Signing Agents

1. Vehicle Selection:

  • Type: Choose a spacious and reliable van, such as a Ford Transit or Mercedes Sprinter.
  • Used vs. New: Opt for a used van to save on initial costs. Ensure it’s in good condition and suitable for customization.

2. Finding a Customization Shop:

  • Search for: Van conversion companies that specialize in creating mobile offices or motor homes.
  • Keywords to Google: “Custom van conversion,” “van life cabinets,” “mobile office van customization.”

3. Essential Office Equipment:

  • Scanner: Secure a sturdy scanner on top of your setup to prevent movement during transit. Epson Scanner makes a really good one!
  • Printer: Install a dual tray laser printer. Brands like Brother or HP are reliable and efficient for document-heavy tasks.
  • Mounting Supplies: Use heavy duty Velcro strips to secure your equipment. These are great and super strong and easy to use!

4. Storage Solutions:

  • Custom Cabinets: Install custom cabinets for storing essential office supplies such as binder clips, pens, paper clips, rubber bands, a stapler and extra paper.
  • Drawer for Extra Supplies: Keep extra paper, toner, and printer drums in dedicated drawers to ensure you’re always prepared.

5. Power Setup:

  • Battery and Inverter: Install a battery and inverter hardwired into the vehicle’s electrical system to power all office equipment efficiently. https://amzn.to/3APP3MI
  • Rechargeable External Battery: Optional for added power security like a portable power station.

6. Comfort and Efficiency Enhancements:

  • Swivel Seats: Ensure the driver and passenger seats can swivel to face the back, creating a comfortable workspace.
  • LED Lights: Install LED lights for visibility during early morning or late-night signings.

7. Additional Features:

8. Efficiency Hacks:

  • Preparation: Regularly restock supplies and check for shortages to ensure you’re always ready.
  • Use of Time: Utilize the van as a true mobile office, performing tasks like printing, checking documents, and scheduling while on the go.
  • Hiring Assistance: Consider hiring a driver, such as a responsible family member, to maximize your working time between signings.

Conclusion

Building a mobile office tailored to your notary public loan signing business can significantly boost your efficiency and profitability. By following these steps and incorporating the right equipment and hacks, you’ll be well on your way to providing top-tier service while maximizing your earnings.

Ready to take your notary business to the next level? Start building your mobile office today and experience the difference it can make!