Due to COVID-19, I unable to notarize my boss’ signature in person. I am in Massachusetts and he is in New York. Can I complete a notarization using ZOOM? — G. H., Massachusetts
No, you may not. While a recent new temporary law (Senate Bill 2645) allows Massachusetts Notaries to use Zoom or other video conference technologies to perform Remote Ink-Signed Notarizations (RIN) on certain types of documents during the COVID-19 crisis, this law requires both the Notary and the principal signer to be located within Massachusetts. In addition, if the document pertains to real property, a will, nomination of guardian or conservator, caregiver authorization affidavit, trust, durable power of attorney, health care proxy or authorization under the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, the Notary who performs the RIN must be a Massachusetts attorney or a paralegal under the supervision of a Massachusetts attorney.
(A guide to emergency COVID-19 remote notarization rules in other states can be found here.)
Hotline answers are based on the laws in the state where the question originated and may not reflect the laws of other states. If in doubt, always refer to your own state statutes. A guide to emergency remote notarization provisions in other states can be found here. – The Editors
Confronted with a tricky notarization? Unsure how to proceed? NNA members have unlimited access to our expertly trained NNA Hotline counselors to help you with all of your notarial questions. Call 1-888-876-0827, Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. PST; Saturday, 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST.