As we know, most local and state governments have initiated a "Shelter in Place" order due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In an effort to allow the housing market to continue closing transactions, various states have passed emergency legislation authorizing the use of Remote Ink-Signed Notarization (RIN) to mitigate the risk of spreading the virus during face-to-face notarizations. These authorizations are temporary and will last for the duration of the state of emergency or for a specified time after the emergency is lifted.
What is Remote Ink-Signed Notarization (RIN)?
Remote Ink-Signed Notarization eliminates the need for in-person signings, allowing a notary and signer to be in different physical locations. Notaries witness wet signatures utilizing audio-visual technology and then later use wet ink to sign their names and notary seal once they receive the physical documents. No electronic signatures are required.
How is Remote Ink-Signed Notarization (RIN) different from Remote Online Notarization (RON)?
A RON transaction is a fully digital transaction. All the documents are digitally signed and then the notary digitally signs, applies a digital notarial certificate and tamper seals the digital document. RON also requires that the signers be authenticated using 3rd party ID verification services and knowledge-based authentication processes that are built into the video conferencing solution.
A RIN transaction is a paper transaction where everyone “wet” signs the documents and the notary still ink stamps the documents. With RIN, the process of seeing the other party sign is done via a video conferencing tool such as GoToMeeting, Microsoft Teams, Google, WebEx, or Zoom. The RIN solution uses the video conferencing software to fulfill the requirement that a document signer personally appear before a notary. The notary verifies the identity of the signer based on existing state notary laws or by methods specified in the emergency order issued by the state. Paper documents are signed in pen and then remitted to the notary who then physically applies their notary stamp to the documents.
How does this pertain to COVID-19?
The “Shelter in Place” order caused by COVID-19 has caused the need for temporary orders allowing for the use of real-time video technology to satisfy the physical presence requirements and remove the requirements for physical presence under applicable state law for notarial acts.
How does a typical RIN transaction work?
How can SoftPro customers prepare for RIN in their state?
How can a customer prepare their office for RIN?
Follow the checklist below to ensure your office is prepared for RIN:
If you have any additional questions about RIN, please do not hesitate to contact us below.