The notary profession is steeped in tradition, but technology is rewriting the rules. With the rise of remote work, digital transactions, and global mobility, there’s growing demand for notarizations that can happen online—securely and legally. Enter Remote Online Notarization (RON).
While Massachusetts has yet to pass a permanent RON law, the concept is reshaping the notarial landscape nationwide. This article explores what RON is, where it stands in Massachusetts, and what that means for residents, attorneys, and real estate professionals in Tewksbury, Lowell, Billerica, Wilmington, and Andover.
What Is Remote Online Notarization?
Remote Online Notarization allows a commissioned notary public to notarize documents electronically using secure audio-visual technology. Instead of meeting face-to-face, the notary and signer connect via video conferencing on a legally compliant platform.
The entire process—ID verification, e-signature, and notarization—is completed online, and a recording of the session is retained for legal records.
How Does RON Differ from Traditional Notarization?
| Feature | Traditional Notarization | Remote Online Notarization |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Presence | Required | Not required |
| ID Verification | In-person check | Digital credential analysis, KBA |
| Signature Type | Wet ink | Electronic |
| Jurisdiction | Limited to state of commission | Depends on state RON law |
| Document Delivery | Paper | PDF / e-signed |
| Use Case | Real estate, legal, healthcare | Cross-state or time-sensitive deals |
The Massachusetts Situation: Where We Stand
As of April 2025, Massachusetts has not adopted a permanent RON statute. However, during the COVID-19 state of emergency, the state temporarily allowed RON under specific conditions. That emergency order has since expired.
Today, notarizations in Massachusetts still require physical presence, either in-office or via mobile notary services, which we offer across:
📍Need a trusted Notary Public in Tewksbury, MA? Book your in-office or mobile appointment now.
Who Benefits from Remote Online Notarization?
While RON isn’t currently available in Massachusetts, it has been adopted by over 40 other states—and many clients are asking when they’ll be able to use it locally.
RON is ideal for:
- Out-of-state clients handling real estate closings in MA
- Seniors or immunocompromised individuals with mobility limitations
- Professionals with time-sensitive contracts
- Students studying abroad
- Business owners managing cross-border agreements
While we currently meet these needs through mobile notary services, we continue to track RON legislation closely and prepare to adopt it when permitted.
RON and Real Estate in Massachusetts
Real estate closings often require tight deadlines, multiple signers, and complex documentation. In states where RON is legal, buyers and sellers can sign their closing documents from anywhere.
If Massachusetts legalizes permanent RON:
- Title agents could close deals faster
- Buyers overseas or out of state could close remotely
- Realtors could streamline the process for long-distance clients
Until then, we continue to support local real estate professionals with mobile notary services at homes, law offices, and title agencies throughout the Merrimack Valley.
Challenges and Concerns with RON
While convenient, RON isn’t without concerns:
1. Security and Identity Verification
Digital platforms must meet strict federal and state guidelines for ID authentication, including credential analysis and knowledge-based authentication (KBA). Not all platforms are created equal.
2. Document Acceptance
Many banks, courts, and international authorities still reject electronically notarized documents. Until wider adoption occurs, traditional notarization remains the more accepted standard.
3. Training and Legal Liability
RON requires advanced training and use of approved technology. Notaries must maintain video records, digital logs, and audit trails—raising the bar for compliance and increasing liability if mistakes are made.
At Tewksbury Notary, we believe RON is the future—but we’re equally committed to maintaining the trust, precision, and professionalism of traditional in-person notarization.
The Future of RON in Massachusetts
Lawmakers have introduced various RON bills in recent years, but progress has been slow. Concerns about fraud prevention, technological readiness, and cross-jurisdictional issues have delayed adoption.
Still, pressure is mounting from:
- Title companies
- Remote workers
- Global professionals
- Elder law attorneys
- Massachusetts residents wanting digital access
As professionals in the notary space, we’re watching developments closely and preparing to offer fully legal remote notarization as soon as state law allows.
Our Commitment to Secure Notarization in MA
While RON is not yet allowed in Massachusetts, you don’t need to wait for a remote solution. We offer flexible options that meet the same needs:
✅ Mobile notary visits to homes, offices, hospitals, and elder care facilities
✅ In-office notarizations with flexible scheduling
✅ Witness coordination and identity verification
✅ Legal compliance with Massachusetts notarial law
✅ Discreet handling of sensitive documents
📞 Visit https://tewksburynotary.com to learn more or schedule your appointment.
Final Thoughts
Remote Online Notarization is changing how legal documents are executed across the country. While Massachusetts has not yet joined that wave, trusted notaries like us are ready to bridge the gap—with secure, professional mobile and in-person service throughout Tewksbury, Lowell, Andover, Billerica, and Wilmington.
📍Looking for a mobile notary in Massachusetts you can trust? We’re here to help.
Notary Public Serving Tewksbury MA 