Exploring the Ins and Outs of Emergency Video Notarization in North Carolina with OMA Services, LLC: A Detailed Guide

OMA Services, LLC
Oct 12, 2024
6 min read

Updated: Sep 20

OMA Services, LLC — Emergency Video Notarization

In today's digital age, everyone is looking for faster and safer ways to handle essential tasks. Emergency video notarization with OMA Services, LLC shines as a modern solution, allowing documents to be notarized without in-person meetings and we are sure Dare & Currituck County will greatly benefit. In North Carolina, where digital adaptations are crucial, understanding this service becomes vital for both individuals and businesses. Let’s break down what emergency video notarization is, how it works, and why it matters now more than ever.

What is Emergency Video Notarization?

Emergency video notarization allows notaries public to witness document signing through live video conferencing. This method has gained immense popularity, especially during crises when face-to-face meetings are not feasible.

For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, North Carolina experienced a remarkable increase in video notary requests, with some notaries reporting a 50% rise in business compared to pre-pandemic levels. This modern approach not only meets the immediate needs for notarial services but also brings more efficiency and adaptability to various sectors, including real estate, legal, and finance.

Legal Framework in North Carolina

The North Carolina General Assembly recognized the urgency for video notarization during emergencies, prompting regulatory changes. Specific statutes allow remote notarization based on declared emergencies.

For example, the North Carolina Secretary of State’s guidelines emphasize:

Identification: Notaries must visually confirm the signer’s identity through valid identification.
Technical Requirements: Both parties must use a secure video platform for the session, ensuring a clear connection.

Understanding these regulations is key for anyone considering this service to ensure compliance and legality.

How Does Emergency Video Notarization Work?

Step 1: Schedule the Notarization

To start, clients should reach out to a licensed notary public. Many notaries provide easy online booking systems, allowing clients to find suitable times with ease.

Pro Tip: Look for notaries who offer mobile services, OMA Services is one of them. This can save time if you and the notary need to coordinate further.

Step 2: Prepare the Documents

After scheduling, clients must gather all necessary documents, checking they have the required signatures. Preparation can expedite the process, enabling smooth handling during the video call.

Notaries often share a checklist to ensure that all aspects are covered beforehand.

Step 3: The Video Conference

At the appointment time, both parties connect via a secure platform. The notary will need to see the signer’s valid ID clearly. Additionally, a thorough view of the documents being signed is essential.

Two Way of Notarization for Emergency Video Notarization:

A) Wet Signature of Notary is NOT Needed:

a) Signer provides documents to the notary for review.

b) Signer signs the documents while on video with the notary.

c) Signer THE SAME DAY emails/provides the documents to the notary.

d) Notary returns notarized documents back to the signer by email (the same day) - NO WET signature is provided.

B) Wet Signature of Notary IS Needed:

a) The signer provides documents to the notary for review.

b) The signer signs documents while on video with the notary.

c) The signer, ON THE SAME DAY, emails the signed documents to the notary.

d) The signer mails the signed original documents to the notary, and as soon as the notary receives the documents:

The notary compares the documents with those received via email during video notarization, and if the documents are identical, the notary proceeds with notarization.
The notary notarizes the documents and mails the original documents back to the signer.

Step 4: Notarization Process

Once the notary verifies the signer’s identity, they guide the client through signing the document. It’s crucial that the signing occurs under the notary's observation to comply with state laws.

After the signature, the notary will complete necessary details, including their seal and signature—a vital step in finalizing the notarization.

Step 5: Document Delivery

Once completed, documents will be send back either digitally or if wet signature required, the signer will have to mail the document to the notary for notarization. As mentioned, in some cases, a hard copy may still need to be mailed.

Pro Tip: Confirm with your notary how the documents will be delivered and specify your preferred method.

Benefits of Emergency Video Notarization

Convenience and Accessibility

One of the standout benefits is convenience. Clients avoid the hassle of traveling to a notary’s office, saving time and reducing stress.

In a survey, 67% of users reported that video notarization decreased their logistical challenges significantly, especially for those in remote areas or with mobility limitations.

Enhanced Safety

This method minimizes in-person interactions, which has become critical during health crises. By utilizing video technology, clients uphold safety while still accessing required services.

Cost-Effectiveness

Remote notarization often comes at a lower cost compared to traditional methods. On average, clients save approximately 20% on expenses related to travel and time away from work. Many notaries also offer competitive rates for video services, making it a budget-friendly option.

Flexibility

Clients can schedule appointments when it suits them, including outside standard office hours. This is particularly useful for businesses needing urgent notarization.

Considerations When Using Emergency Video Notarization

Technology Requirements

Clients must have reliable technology for successful remote notarization, including a stable internet connection and a video-capable device. Notaries and clients should agree on the technology platform beforehand to prevent hiccups during the appointment.

Notary Credentials

Always ensure that the notary is licensed and understands North Carolina's specific regulations for video notarization. Verifying credentials helps avoid potential issues later on.

Understanding Limitations

Not all documents qualify for emergency video notarization. Some documents, like certain court filings, absentee ballots, verification or proof may still require in-person notarization. Check with your notary upfront about any specific limitations.

Final Thoughts on Video Notarization

Emergency video notarization has significantly changed how North Carolinians access notarial services. By embracing technology, this approach brings convenience, safety, and flexibility to a crucial process. Understanding the ins and outs of this method can save you valuable time and streamline important transactions.

As we move further into a digital future, North Carolina is working on the way in making notarization accessible whenever and wherever it’s needed.

Frequent Questions and Answers:

Is a traditional notary allowed to perform video notarizations?

Yes. The Emergency Video Notarization (EVN) law temporarily permits both regular and electronic notaries to conduct acknowledgments and administer oaths/affirmations via video conferencing technology (such as Zoom, Webex, GoToMeeting, etc.) until July 1, 2026.

2. Is it permissible for a notary to notarize a document by watching a pre-recorded video or listening to pre-recorded audio of someone signing?

No. The notary and the signer need to be connected in real-time on a video conferencing platform (such as Zoom, Webex, GoToMeeting, etc.) to interact and see and hear each other clearly.

3. How does a notary confirm the identity of a signer requesting a video notarization?

The obligation to accurately identify a signer remains unchanged. The notary must

either personally know the signer, know a credible witness who knows the signer, or

acquire satisfactory evidence of the signer's identity by examining an acceptable

identification card, which the signer must display to the camera long enough for the notary

to verify the signer's identity.

4. Is there any change in what is an acceptable ID card for performing a video

notarization?

Yes. The ID card shown must, as usual, be issued by a State, Federal, or Tribal government agency, feature the individual's photo, and be up-to-date. Additionally, the card must contain BOTH the physical description AND the signature of the individual.

5. Is it possible for a notary to notarize a document via video for a signer who is in a different county than the notary?

Yes, according to the EVN law, a North Carolina Notary Public can notarize a document through video conferencing for a signer in any county within North Carolina. The signer must inform the notary of their current county.

6. Is it possible for a North Carolina Notary Public to notarize a document for someone signing in another state through video conferencing?

No. Emergency video notarization is restricted to signers who are physically located within the State of North Carolina.

7. If notary is outside the state of North Carolina, can the documents be video notarized for someone in North Carolina?

No, both the notary and the signer need to be in North Carolina.

8. How does a notary know what the signer is signing?

The signer needs to verbally inform the notary about the type of document being signed for the notarial record and should display the document to the camera. This is necessary because the notary must document the type of document being signed and must clearly see that the person has signed it.

9. Is a video notarization considered an electronic notarization?

No, a video notarization is not the same as an electronic notarization. It can be conducted by a traditional notary using paper or by an electronic notary.

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