How does online notary work in Ohio?
How Does Online Notary Work in Ohio?
If you live in Ohio and need a document notarized fast — but can’t meet a notary in person — you’re in luck. The State of Ohio allows online notarization, making it simple to sign and notarize your documents from anywhere using a secure video platform.
In this post, we’ll break down exactly how online notarization works in Ohio, what you need to prepare, and when it’s the right choice for your important legal and business documents.
✅ What Is Online Notarization?
Online notarization (also called Remote Online Notarization or RON) allows a licensed Ohio notary public to verify your identity and notarize your documents using audio-video technology.
Instead of meeting face-to-face, you’ll connect with the notary through a secure online platform that records the entire session. This means you can complete important paperwork — like real estate forms, power of attorney, title transfers, or affidavits — from your home, office, or even on the go. Starr Notary LLC is fully equipped to provide secure and compliant RON services to all Ohio residents.
⚙️ How the Online Notary Process Works in Ohio
Here’s the simple step-by-step process with Starr Notary LLC:
- Upload Your Document You’ll start by securely uploading the document that needs to be notarized to our State of Ohio-approved platform. Our system ensures your documents are handled with the highest level of encryption and security.
- Verify Your Identity For your protection and to comply with Ohio law, you’ll take a photo of your valid government-issued ID (driver’s license, state ID, or passport). Then, you'll answer a few identity-proofing questions (called KBA — Knowledge-Based Authentication) designed to confirm you are who you say you are, drawing from public data.
- Meet the Notary via Live Video Once your identity is verified, you’ll connect with a commissioned Ohio online notary from Starr Notary LLC through a live, secure video session. The notary will confirm your identity visually, watch you electronically sign your document, and then apply their official digital seal and signature.
- Receive Your Notarized Document Immediately after the notary completes the process, you’ll instantly receive a tamper-evident PDF of your notarized document, complete with the notary’s digital certificate attached. You can then download, print, or securely send it wherever it needs to go – saving you time and hassle.
🧾 What You’ll Need for an Online Notary Appointment with Starr Notary LLC
Before you begin, make sure you have:
- A valid, unexpired government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, or passport).
- A computer, smartphone, or tablet with a working camera and microphone.
- A stable, reliable internet connection.
- A clear, unsigned copy of your document ready to upload.
- A quiet, private space where you can comfortably complete your notarization.
⚖️ Is Online Notarization Legal in Ohio?
Yes, absolutely. Ohio has been at the forefront of modernizing notarization, having authorized Remote Online Notarization (RON) since September 2019 under Ohio Revised Code Chapter 147. This legislation ensures that online notarizations performed within Ohio meet the same legal standards as traditional in-person notarizations.
At Starr Notary LLC, all of our notaries are commissioned in Ohio and have undergone specific training and approval by the Ohio Secretary of State to perform online notarizations. This means we can legally perform notarizations for residents located anywhere in the U.S. or abroad — as long as our notary is physically located within Ohio during the secure video session. You can trust that your online notarization with us is fully compliant and legally binding.
| Situation | Best Option |
|---|---|
| You need a fast notarization outside traditional business hours | Online Notary (Starr Notary LLC) |
| You prefer to meet face-to-face or have paper documents | Mobile Notary (Starr Notary LLC) |
| You’re out of state, traveling, or unable to leave your home/office | Online Notary (Starr Notary LLC) |
| You’re signing complex real estate or loan documents requiring "wet ink" signatures and physical presence | Mobile Notary (Starr Notary LLC) |
| You need general power of attorney, affidavits, or healthcare directives notarized | Online Notary or Mobile Notary (Starr Notary LLC) |
Many clients use both: for convenience and speed, they utilize Starr Notary LLC's online notarization services; for loan signings, wills, and real estate closings that require specific physical presence, they prefer Starr Notary’s professional mobile notary service across Cleveland and Northeast Ohio.
Ready to Notarize Online?
At Starr Notary LLC, we make the online notarization process seamless, secure, and stress-free. Whether you prefer to meet in person or online, we handle the verification, technology, and compliance so you can focus on your business or family.
👉 Book your online or mobile notary appointment today: www.notarypublicclevelandohio.com
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Notarization in Ohio
Here are some common questions our clients ask about notarizing documents online in Ohio:
What types of documents can be notarized online by Starr Notary LLC?
We can notarize almost any document online that typically requires a traditional notary, including affidavits, power of attorney documents, vehicle title transfers, living wills, trust documents, advanced directives, and many business contracts. The key is that the document allows for electronic signatures. If you're unsure, please contact us!
Is an online notarization from Ohio valid in other states or internationally?
Yes! A properly executed Remote Online Notarization by an Ohio-commissioned notary public is recognized as legally valid across all U.S. states due to full faith and credit laws. Many foreign countries also accept RONs, but it's always wise to confirm with the receiving party in international situations.
What if I don't pass the Knowledge-Based Authentication (KBA) questions?
The KBA process is a critical security step required by Ohio law. If you don't pass the KBA on your first attempt, you may have one more try. If you fail a second time, we'll need to reschedule, as there might be an issue with your public records or you may have made a mistake. Our priority is ensuring your identity is securely verified.
How much does an online notarization cost with Starr Notary LLC?
Our fees for online notarization are competitive and transparent. While Ohio law allows for a maximum fee per notarial act, Starr Notary LLC strives to provide affordable and accessible service. Please visit our website or contact us directly for our current pricing structure for online notarizations.
Is the online notarization session recorded?
Yes, absolutely. In compliance with Ohio Revised Code Chapter 147, the entire audio-video session of your online notarization is securely recorded and archived. This recording serves as a vital tamper-evident record of the notarial act, adding an extra layer of security and legal validity.
What if I have technical issues during my online notary appointment?
Starr Notary LLC uses a user-friendly and reliable platform. However, if you encounter technical difficulties, our team is here to assist you. We recommend testing your camera and microphone beforehand and ensuring you have a stable internet connection for the smoothest experience.
Can multiple signers be present in an online notarization session?
Yes, our platform supports multiple signers. Each signer will need to go through their own identity verification (ID upload and KBA) and participate in the live video session with the notary. Please let us know in advance if there will be multiple signers so we can facilitate the process efficiently.
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