Comprehensive Guide to FedEx’s Online Notary Services: How It Works, Costs, and Document Restrictions
Last Updated on 01/09/2023 by UPS_ Admin
Navigating the world of online notarization can be challenging, especially when you’re unsure where to start. This comprehensive guide delves deep into FedEx’s Online Notary Services, detailing the ins and outs, costs, and notable exceptions. From the convenience of remote notarizations to the very specifics of what’s required, get all your questions answered here. Dive in!
Does FedEx Notarize?
For online notarization through FedEx, your device must have both audio and video functionalities. While a physical FedEx Office location can support you with tasks pre and post the online notarization. Conveniently, you can scan and save essential documents to a flash drive or cloud storage at these locations. Once notarized online, you can promptly print your documents using the FedEx Office® Print & Go service, whether they’re stored in your email, on a flash drive, or in the cloud.
Most documents can be notarized online using this platform. However, there are a few exceptions for documents with unique restrictions. It’s advisable to always consult with your own advisors and document recipients if you have queries about whether your documents can be notarized online. For a more comprehensive understanding of documents with unique restrictions, you can see this article.
The cost to notarize a single document is $25. If your document necessitates more than one notary seal, each supplementary notary seal incurs a charge of $10, although the majority of documents only demand one.
Contents
How Do FedEx’s Online Notary Services Work?
There are four key steps when using FedEx’s online notary service. Let’s dive deeper into each:
- Upload DocumentsAccess the documents you wish to have notarized from your email, snap a picture with your phone, or through a cloud storage service. Subsequently, upload these onto the FedEx platform.
- Prove Your IdentityConfirm your identity by capturing an image of your government-issued ID (like a driver’s license or passport) and replying to several security questions.
- Connect With A Live NotaryEngage with a licensed notary public through a secure video conference. They will then validate your identity, witness your signature, and offer assistance as necessary.
- Save And Share DocumentsDownload, print, or distribute your newly notarized documents as required. The entire process typically concludes in about 15 minutes.
What are the requirements for using FedEx’s Online Notarization Services?
To utilize FedEx’s Online Notary Services, it’s essential to be equipped with specific tools and documents. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Document(s) to be Notarized: You should have all the documents that need notarization ready. It’s worth noting that while many documents can be notarized online through this platform, there are some exceptions due to specific restrictions. It’s always advisable to consult with legal advisors or the intended recipients of the document to ensure its suitability for online notarization. For more details about such exceptions, you can read this article.
- Technological Requirements: Ensure you possess a device equipped with both audio and video features. This could be a computer, smartphone, or tablet. For a smooth experience, it’s vital that the device meets the minimum system requirements.
- Identification: A valid photo ID issued by the government is mandatory. This could be a driver’s license, passport, or a military ID. FedEx provides a comprehensive list of acceptable forms of identification, which you can refer to.
- U.S. Social Security Number: This is required to verify your identity securely.
Remote Online Notarization (RON): This is a modern method of notarizing documents digitally. The individual needing the notarization uses an electronic signature and collaborates with a licensed notary through audio-video technology.
The adoption of RON can be traced back to 2011 when Virginia set a precedent by passing House Bill 2318/Senate Bill 827, propelling notarizations into the digital realm. This was a landmark decision, as it permitted vetted notaries to notarize documents online using audio-video mechanisms. Promptly, notaries in Virginia were equipped to remotely notarize documents governed by Virginia’s regulations for individuals across all U.S. states and even for expatriates. Since then, more than 37 states have embraced this forward-thinking approach.
When is document notarization available at FedEx?
At FedEx, you can get your document notarized online any time, as their Online Notary service is available 24/7, 365 days a year. However, physical FedEx Office locations do not offer in-person notarization. Instead, they assist with processes before and after your online notarization, such as scanning or printing. Ensure your device has audio and visual capabilities for the online session.
How Much Are FedEx’s Notary Services?
FedEx’s Online Notary service charges $25 for notarizing a single document. Should your document require additional notary seals, there’s an added cost of $10 for each subsequent seal. It’s advisable to contact in advance to ensure a smooth process.
Which Documents Can’t Be Notarized With FedEx?
While FedEx’s online notary service provides a convenient way to notarize many documents, there are some exceptions. Documents that cannot be notarized online through FedEx include:
- Documents intended for use outside of the United States: Such as those being submitted to foreign embassies.
- Certified copies of certain official documents: Many states do not allow notaries to certify court-issued documents or copies of birth, marriage, or death certificates.
- Marriage Certificates: Notaries are prohibited from performing remote marriage ceremonies, except in the case of notarizing Marriage by Proxy documents.
- Wills, Codicils & Testamentary Trusts: There are specific requirements for the electronic signing of these documents, but there are exceptions for living wills, advance health directives, and certain trust-related documents.
- Documents that appear tampered: If a document seems to have been altered (e.g., with white-outs or cut and paste), notaries might suspect fraud and refuse service.
- Form I-9: The Department of Homeland Security does not allow the use of online audio/video technology for completing this document.
It’s essential to check with your advisors and document recipients before opting for online notarization to ensure your documents will be accepted and legally valid.
Conclusion
In the digital age, FedEx’s Online Notary Services provide a seamless solution for those seeking notarization without the hassle of traditional methods. While it offers undeniable convenience, it’s crucial to be aware of the specific requirements and exceptions. Always consult with professionals to ensure your documents’ legitimacy. Harness the power of online notarization and navigate this modern convenience with confidence.
