Remote online notarization can be convenient, but deed recording rules still matter.
Many states allow remote online notarization, also called RON, but recorder acceptance, platform approval, and document rules can vary by state and county. Before using an online notary for a quitclaim deed, confirm that the county recorder will accept the notarized document.
What Is Remote Online Notarization?
Remote online notarization allows a signer to appear before a notary using live audio-video technology instead of meeting the notary in person.
In a typical online notarization session, the signer uploads the document, verifies identity, meets with a commissioned online notary, signs electronically, and receives a notarized document.
For quitclaim deeds, the key question is not only whether online notarization exists in the state. The practical question is whether the deed can be recorded after being notarized online.
Need an Online Notary?
We know that getting out of the house, driving across town, finding a notary, and working around office hours can be inconvenient.
If remote online notarization is accepted for your transaction, you may be able to complete the notarization step from home using your computer, tablet, or smartphone.
Online Notary Service
If online notarization is permitted for your deed and recording situation, this may save time and eliminate the need to travel.
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State-by-State Remote Online Notarization Status
The table below gives a practical summary for ordinary users. “Operational” means remote online notarization is generally available, though state rules and platform approval requirements may vary. “Not operational” means the state has not authorized RON, or the law has been enacted but cannot yet be performed.
| State | Status | Practical Note |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Not authorized | RON not authorized. |
| Alaska | Operational | RON available; platform approval not required, but listed providers may be available. |
| Arizona | Operational | RON available; notaries must use compliant technology. |
| Arkansas | Operational | RON available; approved platforms required. |
| California | Enacted, not yet operational | RON has been enacted but cannot yet be performed. |
| Colorado | Operational | RON available; approved platforms required. |
| Connecticut | Not treated as RON | Remote notarization statute is not currently interpreted as authorizing RON. |
| Delaware | Operational | RON available; approved platforms required. |
| District of Columbia | Enacted, not yet operational | RON has been enacted but cannot yet be performed. |
| Florida | Operational | RON available; providers self-certify with the state. |
| Georgia | Not enacted | RON not yet enacted into law. |
| Hawaii | Operational | RON available; platform approval not required. |
| Idaho | Operational | RON available; notaries must use compliant technology. |
| Illinois | Operational | RON available; approved platforms required. |
| Indiana | Operational | RON available; approved platforms required. |
| Iowa | Operational | RON available; approved platforms required. |
| Kansas | Operational | RON available; approved platforms required. |
| Kentucky | Operational | RON available; approved platforms required. |
| Louisiana | Operational | RON available; listed providers may be used. |
| Maine | Operational | RON available; approved platforms required. |
| Maryland | Operational | RON available; approved platforms required. |
| Massachusetts | Enacted, not yet operational | RON has been enacted but cannot yet be performed. |
| Michigan | Operational | RON available; approved platforms required. |
| Minnesota | Operational | RON available; listed providers may be available. |
| Mississippi | Not enacted | RON not yet enacted into law. |
| Missouri | Operational | RON available; approved platforms required. |
| Montana | Operational | RON available; approved platforms required. |
| Nebraska | Operational | RON available; approved platforms required. |
| Nevada | Operational | RON available; approved platforms required. |
| New Hampshire | Operational | RON available; notaries must use compliant technology. |
| New Jersey | Operational | RON available; platform approval not required. |
| New Mexico | Operational | RON available; approved platforms required. |
| New York | Operational | RON available; providers are not approved by the Secretary of State. |
| North Carolina | Not yet operational | Remote electronic notarization platforms have not yet been approved. |
| North Dakota | Operational | RON available; listed providers may be available. |
| Ohio | Operational | RON available; platform approval not required. |
| Oklahoma | Operational | RON available; platform approval not required. |
| Oregon | Operational | RON available; listed providers may be available. |
| Pennsylvania | Operational | RON available; approved platforms required. |
| Rhode Island | Operational | RON available; approved platforms required. |
| South Carolina | Not enacted | RON not yet enacted into law. |
| South Dakota | Operational | RON available; platform approval not required. |
| Tennessee | Operational | RON available; platform approval not required. |
| Texas | Operational | RON available; platform approval not required. |
| Utah | Operational | RON available; approved platforms required. |
| Vermont | Operational | RON available; platforms must register with the Secretary of State. |
| Virginia | Operational | RON available; platform approval not required. |
| Washington | Operational | RON available; notaries must use compliant technology. |
| West Virginia | Operational | RON available; listed providers may be available. |
| Wisconsin | Operational | RON available; approved platforms required. |
| Wyoming | Operational | RON available; platform approval not required. |
Important Recording Caution for Quitclaim Deeds
A state may allow remote online notarization, but that does not automatically mean every county recorder will accept every remotely notarized deed in every situation.
Before using an online notary for a quitclaim deed, confirm:
- The state allows remote online notarization for this type of document.
- The notary is properly authorized to perform remote notarizations.
- The county recorder will accept the notarized deed for recording.
- Any required transfer forms, affidavits, tax statements, or exemption statements are also complete.
Remote Online Notarization FAQ
What is remote online notarization?
Remote online notarization allows the signer to appear before the notary using live audio-video technology instead of being physically present in the same room.
Can a quitclaim deed be notarized online?
In many states, yes. However, deed recording rules vary. Confirm that your county recorder will accept the remotely notarized deed before relying on online notarization.
Do all states allow remote online notarization?
No. Most states allow some form of remote online notarization, but some states do not authorize it or have enacted laws that are not yet fully operational. Check the table above for your state's current status.
Does online notarization replace recording the deed?
No. Notarization and recording are separate steps. After a deed is signed and notarized, it usually still must be recorded with the county recording office where the property is located.
Can I use NotaryLive for a quitclaim deed?
If remote online notarization is permitted for your transaction and accepted by the recording office, an online notary service such as NotaryLive may be a convenient option.
Continue With Quitclaim Deed Help
Need help deciding whether to prepare your deed yourself, use a document preparation service, or get the deed notarized?
Visit our Quitclaim Deed Help page for more options.