Once a document has been notarized through a remote online notary, it is digitally signed and protected with tamper-evident technology. While it may be tempting to make a quick edit after downloading the file, doing so can invalidate the digital signature and raise questions about the document’s authenticity.
A remote online notarization creates a secure electronic record that includes the notary’s digital certificate and electronic seal. These security features are designed to detect any changes made after the notarization is complete. Even something as minor as correcting a typo, moving text, or re-saving the document in a way that alters its contents may cause PDF software to report that the digital signature is no longer valid.
For many legal, financial, and business documents, maintaining the integrity of the notarized file is essential. Documents such as powers of attorney, affidavits, real estate forms, corporate resolutions, and government filings may be rejected if the digital signature has been invalidated or if there is evidence the document was altered after notarization.
If you discover an error after your online notary session is complete, the safest approach is not to edit the notarized PDF. Instead, correct the original document and have it notarized again. Although repeating the notarization may take a little extra time, it preserves the integrity of the document and helps ensure it will be accepted by the receiving party.
At OnlineNotary.us, we recommend carefully reviewing your document before your remote online notary session begins. Taking a few extra minutes to verify names, dates, addresses, and other important information can help you avoid delays and the need for a second notarization.
If you need to correct a document after it has been notarized, our team is happy to help you schedule a new online notary session so you receive a properly notarized document that remains secure and legally reliable.
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