Remote Online Notarization (RON) in Illinois

Remote online notarization — commonly called RON — allows Illinois residents to get documents notarized via secure video call without meeting a notary in person. Illinois authorized RON in 2021 and it has become an increasingly popular option for those who prefer a convenient, contactless notarization experience.

What is Remote Online Notarization?

Remote online notarization is a process where a notary public and signer connect via an audio-video call, the signer presents their ID digitally, and documents are signed and notarized electronically. The entire process is recorded and stored for legal record-keeping purposes.

RON is different from a simple video call with a notary — it uses specialized software platforms that provide identity verification, electronic signature capabilities, and tamper-evident sealing of documents.

How RON Works in Illinois

1. Schedule an appointment with an Illinois-commissioned RON notary
2. Upload your documents to the notary's RON platform
3. Verify your identity through knowledge-based authentication (KBA) questions and credential analysis of your ID
4. Connect via video call with the notary at your scheduled time
5. Sign electronically while the notary witnesses via video
6. The notary applies their electronic seal and the document is complete
7. Download your notarized document — delivered electronically

Illinois RON Requirements

For RON to be valid in Illinois:

• The notary must hold a valid Illinois notary commission and be specifically authorized for RON
• The notary must use an approved RON platform
• The signer must pass identity verification
• The entire session must be recorded and stored for at least 10 years
• Both the notary and signer must be able to see and hear each other in real time

Which Documents Can Be Notarized Remotely in Illinois?

Most documents that can be notarized in person can also be notarized via RON in Illinois, including:

• Powers of attorney
• Affidavits and sworn statements
• Business contracts and agreements
• Vehicle title transfers
• Some real estate documents

However, some documents may not be eligible for RON or may require specific conditions. Check with the receiving institution — court, lender, government agency — to confirm they will accept a RON-notarized document before proceeding.

Limitations of RON in Illinois

RON is not appropriate for all situations:

• Some courts and government agencies still require original wet signatures with physical notary seals
• Some real estate transactions may not accept RON depending on the lender and title company requirements
• Signers who cannot pass digital identity verification may not be eligible
• Signers without reliable internet access or a device with a camera cannot use RON

Cost of RON in Illinois

Remote online notarization is typically less expensive than in-person mobile notarization because there is no travel involved:

• Most RON appointments: $25 to $50 per session
• Some platforms charge per signature: typically $5 to $25 per notarized signature

Finding an Illinois RON Notary

Look for notaries in our directory with the "Electronic notary" tag — these are notaries who have indicated they offer remote online notarization services. You can also search notary platforms such as Notarize.com, DocVerify, and SIGNiX which connect signers with RON-authorized notaries nationwide.