When a bank asks for an “original” notarized document, it is important to clarify exactly what the bank means. With Remote Online Notarization (RON), the original notarized document is typically the completed electronic file—not a printed copy or screenshot.
What Is the Original in an Online Notarization?
In a traditional notarization, the original is usually a physical document containing the signer’s signature and the notary’s ink stamp or embossed seal.
Remote Online Notarization works differently. The document is signed and notarized electronically, and the completed PDF contains the notary’s electronic signature, seal, and digital certificate. Tamper-evident technology helps identify whether the document has been changed after notarization.
Printing the completed PDF does not turn the printout into the electronic original. A paper copy also cannot preserve all of the digital information that can be verified within the original electronic file.
What Does the Bank Mean by “Original”?
Banks and other institutions sometimes use the word “original” simply to refer to a properly executed notarized document. In other cases, a bank may specifically require a document containing wet-ink signatures and a traditional notary seal.
That distinction is important.
If you are using an online notary, ask the bank whether it accepts a remotely notarized electronic document. If it does, you should generally provide the completed electronic PDF rather than a screenshot, scan, or modified version of the file.
If the bank specifically requires a wet-ink original, Remote Online Notarization may not satisfy that particular requirement.
Don’t Modify Your Notarized PDF
Once your online notary session is complete, avoid editing or altering the notarized PDF. Changes to a digitally signed document can invalidate the digital signature or cause PDF software to indicate that the document has been modified since it was notarized.
Keep the completed electronic document in its original form and send that file directly to the bank or other receiving party whenever electronic submission is permitted.
Confirm the Bank’s Requirements Before Your Session
OnlineNotary.us recommends confirming the recipient’s requirements before scheduling a Remote Online Notarization.
Ask the bank one simple question: “Do you accept a remotely notarized electronic PDF, or do you require a wet-ink paper original?”
Clarifying this before your online notary session can prevent misunderstandings, rejected documents, and unnecessary delays.
OnlineNotary.us can provide a properly completed remote online notarization, but the bank or other receiving institution ultimately determines whether it will accept an electronically notarized document for a particular transaction.
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